Strategic Program Advisor

Just HR is seeking an accomplished change management specialist, communications expert, and governmental policy advisor to serve as the Strategic Program Advisor for a six-month consulting engagement with a large not-for-profit organization. Our client is a shared services organization that supports two provincial Ministries to advancing education-related policies and programs across British Columbia. The Strategic Program Advisor will play a key role in the execution and management of a high-visibility, province-wide food security initiative. This program is designed to address food insecurity, promote local sourcing, and ensure equitable access to nutritious meals for students across diverse geographies, demographics, and educational structures. The successful candidate will work across multiple stakeholders to enhance policy development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic execution to ensure the program’s long-term success. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic planning and execution of key policy initiatives related to school food security and local sourcing.
• Identify challenges in program delivery (e.g., regional food supply constraints, demographic diversity, fragmented administrative structures) and develop data-driven solutions.
• Work closely with government bodies, school districts, and local suppliers to establish a coordinated and scalable school food program framework.
• Ensure policy alignment with existing education, food security, and community development strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government ministries, non-profits, school administrators, local farmers, and corporate partners.
• Develop and implement stakeholder communication strategies to promote program adoption and address concerns.
• Facilitate multi-stakeholder collaboration, ensuring all voices (e.g., Indigenous communities, rural school districts, urban policymakers) are included in decision-making.
• Advocate for sustainable and long-term funding models to support school food programs beyond the initial investment period.
• Support program logistics, including procurement strategies, funding allocations, and contract management.
• Coordinate local sourcing initiatives, establishing partnerships with B.C.-based food producers and supply chain stakeholders.
• Assist in performance measurement and impact assessment, leveraging data analytics to drive continuous program improvements.
• Develop best practices, toolkits, and guidelines for ongoing program delivery across school districts.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in government relations, policy development, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong change management expertise, with a track record of successfully leading strategic initiatives.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to analyze complex data and translate insights into effective policy recommendations.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholder groups, including public sector entities, non-profits, and private sector partners.
• Strong political acuity and an understanding of government decision-making processes.
• Background in public sector consulting, education policy, food security, or community development.
• Experience or knowledge of local food sourcing would be beneficial but not required.
• Familiarity with B.C. education and child care policies.
• Experience in the food industry, non-profit sector, or program management is an asset.

Remuneration:

• $75 - 90/hr, this role can operate primarily remotely however may be required to attend meetings in Vancouver from time to time.

This is an opportunity to shape a landmark government initiative that will impact thousands of children and families across British Columbia. Work at the intersection of policy, education, food security, and community development. Collaborate with high-level government officials, educational leaders, and industry partners to contribute to sustainable, community-driven solutions for school food programs.

 **Only candidates eligible to work in Canada will be considered**

Just HR is a specialized Human Resources recruitment and search firm with seven practice areas: General HR, Compensation & Benefits, Talent Acquisition, Learning & Organizational Development, Labour & Employee Relations, HRIS, Health & Safety.