Careers

Background:
Vibrant Communities Calgary (VCC) is a non-profit organization that works collaboratively with stakeholders and partners to advocate for long-term strategies that address the root causes of poverty in our city. As stewards of the Enough for All strategy, our goal is that Calgary is a strong, supportive, and inclusive community, where everyone has sufficient income and assets to thrive, and where all Indigenous people are co-creators of Calgary's future. 

We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and equitable workplace which is representative of the community we serve. We welcome those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion, anti-racism, and reconciliation. Applications are encouraged from members of groups that are historically disadvantaged and underrepresented and accommodations are available during the hiring process, upon request. 

Role of VCC’s Policy Director:

The Policy Director plays a key role in shaping and advancing strategic policy goals that drive poverty reduction in alignment with the Enough for All strategy. This role involves identifying emerging policy opportunities, developing impactful recommendations, and mobilizing support to influence decision-makers and stakeholders.

The Director will develop and execute advocacy strategies, ensuring that policy work is evidence-informed and community-driven. They will craft high-quality collateral, including advocacy letters, policy briefs, blogs, and reports (e.g., the Community Well-Being Report) to advance key policy priorities and public engagement efforts.

Additionally, the Director provides people and strategic leadership to the Policy Analyst and fosters cross-sector collaboration by engaging with government, community organizations, and other partners. They bring a deep understanding of poverty as a structural issue, recognizing its intersections with health, housing, employment, and other social determinants of well-being.

This role requires expertise in policy development, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate has proven experience leading advocacy efforts, with the ability to translate complex policy issues into compelling narratives that drive action. They have an established network within the policy, government, and community sectors, allowing them to build momentum for systemic change.

Areas of Responsibility

• Steward VCC’s Policy Priorities: Lead the advancement of VCC’s key policy priorities, ensuring alignment with the Enough for All strategy and the evolving policy landscape.
• Develop High-Impact Advocacy Materials: Draft and review policy briefs, advocacy letters, and backgrounders that translate complex policy issues into actionable insights for decision-makers and stakeholders.
• Monitor and Respond to Policy Developments: Stay ahead of emerging policy trends, legislative changes, and government decisions at all levels, communicating key updates to VCC staff and Enough for All stakeholders.
• Cultivate Policy Expertise: Develop deep expertise in core policy areas affecting poverty reduction in Alberta, including minimum wage legislation, poverty measurement, social assistance, transportation, and housing.
• Strengthen Government and Stakeholder Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with elected officials, civil servants, and policy influencers to amplify the impact of VCC’s policy recommendations.
• Conduct & Synthesize Policy Research: Lead and coordinate research initiatives to support policy recommendations, ensuring they are evidence-based, actionable, and relevant to poverty reduction efforts in Calgary and Alberta.
• Represent VCC in the Community: Participate in community meetings, roundtables, and strategic discussions where policy advocacy aligns with VCC’s mission and goals.
• Support Strategic Communications: Collaborate with the Executive Director and Communications Director to develop compelling fact sheets, data reports, web content, and other materials that strengthen public and political engagement.

Qualifications

Education & Expertise: Degree in social sciences, public policy, political science, or a related field, with a strong understanding of policy development and advocacy with a minimum of 5 years work experience in a senior policy role.

Exceptional Writing & Communication Skills: Proven ability to draft clear, concise, and persuasive policy briefs, advocacy letters, and public communications under tight deadlines.

Strategic & Collaborative Approach: Experience working in cross-sector collaborations, engaging government, non-profits, and community organizations to drive policy impact.

Political Acumen & Government Relations: Strong knowledge of government structures, policy formulation, and legislative processes, with the ability to navigate political environments effectively.

Advocacy & Public Engagement: Ability to verbally articulate complex policy issues in a compelling and accessible way to elected officials, civil servants, and community stakeholders.

Deep Knowledge of Poverty Reduction: Strong understanding of the root causes of poverty, systemic barriers, and evidence-based solutions that drive meaningful change.

Ability to Mobilize & Influence: Established network within policy, government, and advocacy circles, with a demonstrated ability to build momentum for policy action.

Salary and benefits: 

Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, matching RRSP contributions, and paid time off.

How to apply: 

If you are interested in joining our team and believe you have the skills and qualifications we are looking for, please submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience to careers@vibrantcalgary.com with the subject “Director, Policy” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. 

We thank all applicants for their interest in VCC. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. VCC is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.