VP, External Relations

Communitech helps founders start, grow and succeed

At Communitech, we’re all about the “F” word. Founders.

We were built by tech founders who saw the need for a community of support to help ensure the future prosperity of Canada. No other innovation hub can say that, which is pretty cool.

Established in 1997, our mission has been our guide ever since. We’re here to support the founder at every stage of their journey, providing accelerated opportunities to access talent, capital and sales.

• Hire and retain the smartest, brightest and most experienced people
• Access growth financing at every stage
• Sell to the biggest customers at home and around the world
• Connect the right people at the right time – peers who have been there before, coaches who can guide them through the difficult spots and partners from all over Canada

• Lead the External Relations team, to support growth initiatives for our members and to highlight the Waterloo region ecosystem while maintaining a founder-centric mindset
• Create and foster an environment of story-telling to showcase/promote our member companies and to demonstrate the value of the services that Communitech provides
• Amplify the Communitech brand and reputation as a trusted, constructive partner with all constituent audiences - locally, provincially and nationally
• Maintain stakeholder relationships within the tech ecosystem and with regional and national partner organizations
• Develop and implement government relations strategies that align with Communitech’s mission and values.
• Act as the primary liaison between Communitech and various government departments, officials, and policymakers.
• Monitor and analyze policy developments that could impact the tech sector and Communitech’s members.
• Collaborate with the leadership team to advocate for policy changes that support tech founders and startups.
• Identify, pursue, and secure government funding opportunities and incentives for Communitech
• Lead Communitech’s representation in discussions and negotiations with government agencies.
• Work with partners across universities and municipalities to align efforts and achieve mutual goals.

• Extensive experience in government relations, public policy, or a related field.
• Deep understanding of the legislative process and experience in policy advocacy.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with government officials and stakeholders.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of the Canadian tech ecosystem and the challenges tech founders face.
• Deep rooted relationships at federal & provincial levels (nice to have)

Please apply online along with your resume and cover letter.

We thank all applicants in advance; however only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted. All applications will be kept confidential. Communitech is a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including aboriginal persons, francophones, members of sexual minority groups, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and women. We will provide any requested accommodation to candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.