CCPA National Advocacy Lead
The National Advocacy Lead is a subject matter expert in the field of counselling and psychotherapy. They advise on issues related to the profession, provide advocacy leadership, play a key role in policy research, engage with internal and external stakeholders on issues related to advancing CCPA’s mandate, and represent the Association at events and initiatives.
The successful candidate will have relevant subject matter expertise related to the counselling and psychotherapy profession. A good understanding of policy work as well as knowledge of bureaucratic and political processes on national and provincial/territorial levels is considered an asset. Experience as a spokesperson is recommended given the high-profile nature of the position.
The National Advocacy Lead is a member of the Strategic Initiatives and Communications Division of CCPA and reports directly to the Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives and Communications.
Duties:
- Understand and represent the needs of the diverse community of counsellors, counselling therapists and psychotherapists in Canada and represent a strong voice for the promotion of the profession and practice.
- Develop and execute strategies that support the direction set by the Board of Directors and uphold a positive image of CCPA as a leader in the counselling and psychotherapy field.
- Build and maintain relationships with both internal and external stakeholders on issues related to CCPA’s mandate, policies and practices
- Support the Board of Directors, Committees, Chapters, CEO and staff on matters related to stakeholder engagement and advocacy primarily on the national level, as requested
- Advocate on issues related to promoting the association, profession and practice
- Under the guidance of the Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives and Communications, lead the strategic public affairs efforts – government relations, media relations, campaigns, and communications – of CCPA to shape public and political dialogue in a way that raises the profile of counselling and psychotherapy in Canada
- Act as a spokesperson for CCPA on national advocacy matters
- Stay current with relevant research in order to support and advise on CCPA’s initiatives and issues important to the Association’s members
- Contribute to reports, the elaboration of strategic documents and the crafting of communications based on those recommendations
- Support internal policies and procedures specific to public affairs
- Collaborate with team members within the Strategic Initiatives and Communications Division communications strategy for advocacy campaigns, ensuring the creation and updating of content and copy for CCPA’s website and social media platforms.
- Collaborate with CCPA’s Regional Advocacy Lead, CCPA’s Indigenous Advocacy Lead, and CCPA’s Indigenous Relations Lead, on advocacy initiatives in order to ensure coherence and visibility among and within each advocacy ask and issue
- Be the lead for and main point of contact with CCPA’s Public and Government Relations Firm
- Assist in organizing meetings with stakeholders as needed
- Assist with regulation matters, as requested
- Be an ambassador for CCPA’s corporate brand and reputation at events
- Other duties, as required
Requirements:
- A minimum of a Master’s degree in counselling or a related field and a professional certification (i.e. CCC) or license (i.e. RP, RCT, LCT, QC psychotherapy permit) in counselling/psychotherapy
- Subject matter expertise in counselling and psychotherapy issues across the country and understanding of the needs of the diverse community of counsellors and psychotherapists in Canada
- Good grasp of research and policy analysis concepts and required skills, specifically in the health sector and able to contextualize in the current political and environmental climate to ensure cohesion
- Ability to problem-solve creatively and propose innovative solutions
- Ability to work independently with tight deadlines and prioritize tasks efficiently
- Ability to work as an engaged and effective member of a team
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Strong organization, administration and online/computer skills
Language: Fluency in English and competency in French are required
Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week (negotiable)
Compensation: 34 to 43 per hours, commensurate with experience and education, including a competitive benefits package
Duration: Permanent
Location: CCPA National Office, Ottawa, ON (with option to work from home up to 3 days per week)
CCPA is an equal opportunity employer and proud to abide by its accessibility policy.
Interested? Send your cover letter and resumé to [email protected] before January 15th, 2025.