Position: Policy Analyst
Department: Advocacy
Status: Full Time
Reporting directly to: Manager, Advocacy
Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is seeking a Policy Analyst to champion the interests of rural Saskatchewan and its agriculture sector. This role is ideal for someone passionate about agriculture and eager to drive change in rural municipalities through advocacy and policy development.
About Us
SARM is an organization that represents and advocates for the interests of rural municipalities in the province of Saskatchewan. We work to support and promote the needs and concerns of rural communities, including issues related to infrastructure, economic development, agriculture, and governance. We are the collective voice for rural areas in Saskatchewan. We work to ensure that the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural municipalities are recognized and addressed. SARM provides a platform for rural communities to come together, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that can benefit their regions.
Role Overview
As a Policy Analyst with SARM, you will drive advocacy efforts for Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector and rural municipalities by researching, developing, and advancing policies at all government levels. Collaborating with SARM’s board of directors, members, and external stakeholders, you will translate complex agricultural and rural issues into actionable strategies. This role demands agility—managing competing priorities across projects while adapting to evolving political and economic landscapes. Success requires proactive problem-solving, clear communication to diverse audiences (farmers, officials, media), and a commitment to safeguarding rural Saskatchewan’s economic and community interests.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyze federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and policies affecting rural municipalities
- Develop policy positions and advocacy strategies on agriculture, environment, health care, rural governance, and other pertinent areas
- Represent SARM in government consultations, committees, and working groups
- Prepare submissions, reports, position papers, and correspondence
- Research trends and provide advisory support to SARM’s executive
- Manage projects aligned with SARM’s strategic objectives and facilitate committee work
- Engage with SARM’s executive, members, government officials, and key stakeholders
- Stay up to date on current events and trends impacting rural municipalities
- Work with SARM’s communications department on a variety of initiatives
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, political science, public policy, economics, or related field
- 3-5 years’ experience in public policy development, government relations, or relevant non-profit organization
- Graduate degree is considered an asset
- Equivalent combination of technical training, certification, and work experience may be considered
- Strong understanding of Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector and rural municipal issues
- Excellent analytical, communication, and project management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and policy analysis tools
- Experience in agricultural organizations or municipal governments is an asset
- Familiarity with working alongside boards and elected officials is beneficial
- Knowledge of federal and provincial government processes and legislative drafting is considered an asset
- Agricultural background or experience is highly valued. Candidates with diverse qualifications that demonstrate relevant expertise are encouraged to apply.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits, including defined pension plan
- 20 days paid holidays plus 12 personal days annually
- Hybrid work model subject to company policies and department needs
- Supportive, flexible, and inclusive work environment
- Mentorship and training programs
- Collaborative and dynamic team culture
Salary Range: $67,000 to $87,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Further considerations could be made for candidates who bring additional skills or expertise to the role.
Application Deadline: Wednesday February 19, 2025
SARM is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. Priority will be given to those legally entitled to work in Canada.
Applicants must clearly demonstrate in their resume or cover letter how they meet the required qualifications.
To apply, please send a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications to the attention of Alicia Bay, Manager, Advocacy at abay@sarm.ca
To apply for this job email your details to abay@sarm.ca