Director, Government Relations

About OpenText

OpenText is a global leader in information management, fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Joining our team offers the chance to partner with world-renowned companies, address complex challenges, and contribute to the future of digital transformation.

As an AI-first, future-driven, and human-centered company, AI powers every aspect of OpenText, transforming work and empowering digital knowledge workers. We are actively seeking talent that AI cannot replace to help us shape the future of information management. Join us in this exciting journey.

Your Impact as Director, Government Relations

The Director, Government Relations will be instrumental in advancing OpenText's strategic objectives across Canada and key global markets. This pivotal role involves enhancing stakeholder relations, shaping technology and international trade policy, and contributing to business development.

Reporting to and collaborating with the Vice President of Government Affairs, you will cultivate productive relationships across OpenText’s global offices, business units, and the executive leadership team. This will involve identifying opportunities and challenges, and executing strategies to support the wider organization.

In Canada, this role requires engagement with all levels of government, with a primary focus on the Government of Canada and key Provincial partners. An understanding of AI, innovation, broader technology issues, and/or international trade will be highly beneficial. Experience with academic and research institutions, as well as regional economic development agencies, is also considered an asset.

Given OpenText’s global operations, experience in key international markets, including the United States, the EU, UK, and APAC, and/or experience working with Canada’s Embassy and Trade Commissioner Service, will be viewed favorably.

What The Director, Government Relations Role Offers

• Government Engagement: Build and sustain robust relationships with federal and provincial governments, representing OpenText’s interests in policy discussions, consultations, and advocacy efforts.
• Policy Leadership: Develop and implement comprehensive government relations strategies that align with business goals and regulatory compliance, including monitoring legislative developments and advising on their impacts.
• Business Development: Provide strategic guidance and support for government procurements and engagements in global markets involving domestic or foreign government departments and agencies.
• Global Relations: Lead and support engagement with foreign governments and global organizations on policy matters and stakeholder relations, consistent with business development responsibilities.
• Stakeholder Collaboration and Partnerships: Work closely with industry associations, economic development agencies, and community organizations to build coalitions and advance shared objectives. Support the VP Corporate Citizenship in Canadian and global initiatives, including partnerships with academic and research associations.
• Strategic Communications and Planning: Coordinate and support major communications and marketing efforts with the Communications and Marketing organizations, including securing support from Canadian officials in key global markets, and developing messaging and briefing materials for senior executives.
• Represent OpenText at government, stakeholder, and policy events as required.
• Provide guidance to internal teams on public policy trends, regulatory risks, and opportunities for engagement.

What You Need To Succeed

• Ideally 10 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or public policy, preferably within the technology sector.
• Preference for candidates positioned to communicate effectively with government officials, consistent with Federal and Provincial Lobby Guidelines.
• Deep understanding of Canadian public policy processes, regulatory frameworks, and international relations, including Federal and Provincial efforts to diversify trade in global markets.
• Demonstrated success in building government and university partnerships, with a proven track record of advancing complex policy initiatives.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience representing organizations to senior government officials and global partners.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Business, or a related field.
• Bilingualism (English and French) is considered a significant asset.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

One Last Thing About OpenText

OpenText is a global community built on trust, character, and purpose. We operate ethically, care deeply about our people, and prioritize our customers. We foster team success through collaboration, tackle challenges with resilience, and innovate with intention.

Join us in driving positive change through privacy, technology, and teamwork. At OpenText, we live our values. Choose us if you want to be part of a company that empowers you to make a meaningful impact.

OpenText is committed to an inclusive work environment. Our Employment Equity and Diversity Policy ensures a working environment inclusive of everyone, regardless of culture, national origin, race, color, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, family status, age, veteran status, disability, religion, or other protected basis.

If you require assistance or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please contact us at hr@opentext.com. Our proactive approach encourages collaboration, innovation, and personal growth, enriching OpenText's vibrant workplace.

Key skills/competency

• Government Relations
• Public Policy
• International Trade Policy
• Stakeholder Management
• Legislative Monitoring
• Advocacy
• Business Development
• Regulatory Compliance
• Strategic Communications
• AI and Technology Policy