At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you're part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely-helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!
Job Summary
The Director of U.S. Government Affairs is responsible for playing a critical role on the United States (U.S.) stakeholder engagement team, helping to share the story of CN's commitment to safely, sustainability and reliably serving customers. The incumbent is accountable for advocating CN's interests with legislative, regulatory, and external stakeholders to help bolster CN's reputation and deliver public policies that create a regulatory environment that fosters growth and reinvestment. The role works closely with policymakers, government agencies, and other key stakeholders to shape policies, promote favorable legislation, promote the CN brand and the social license to operate, and that address challenges faced by the freight rail industry.
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Main Responsibilities
Advocacy and Representation
• Engage with legislators, Congressional staff, and regulatory bodies to influence decisions related to freight railroads
• Present compelling arguments and data to support the industry's needs
• Collaborate with other industry associations, trade groups, and stakeholders to form coalitions that amplify the voice of freight railroads
Policy Analysis and Strategy
• Stay informed about legislative proposals, regulations, and industry trends affecting freight railroads
• Assess their impact and develop strategic responses
• Work with internal teams and external partners to create effective advocacy strategies
• Identify opportunities for legislative and regulatory advancements
• Evaluate potential risks and opportunities associated with proposed policies and regulations
Relationship Building
• Cultivate relationships with members of Congress, agency officials, and their staff
• Attend industry events, conferences, and networking sessions.
• Collaborate with shippers, labor unions, environmental groups, and other stakeholders to build consensus and find common ground
• Assist in the development of federal, state and local grant opportunities to support business development function and corporate growth strategy
Communications and Outreach Ship Building
• Develop personal relationships with key U.S. industry trade press and key local media contacts
• Collaborate internally to develop positive media coverage and highlight CN's industry contributions in safety, growth, sustainability, and innovation
• Craft persuasive messages that resonate with policymakers and the public
• Assist in the development of communications material for use in various channels, including social media and press releases targeted to U.S. stakeholders
• Develop strategic communications campaigns and materials to raise awareness about the importance of CN and freight railroads in the economy, sustainability, and transportation infrastructure targeted to U.S. stakeholders
Working Conditions
The role has standard working conditions[AN1] with a regular workweek from Monday to Friday. The role requires being available on-call 24/7 to respond to critical incidences. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and stress. The role requires minimal travel (up to 20%) within the U.S.
Requirements
Experience
Government Relations, Lobbying or Advocacy
• Minimum 10 to 15 years of experience working on Capitol Hill, [AN2] , lobbying, or advocacy
o Experience working for a Member of Congress, Class 1 freight carrier, or national passenger rail carrier
o Proven track record of working collaboratively with key agencies such as Federal Railroad Administration and state transportation agencies
Education/Certification/Designation
• Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field
Competencies
• Leads by example for the safety and security of all
• Communicates with impact
• Collaborates with others and shares information
• Sets direction and inspires others
• Seeks and values all perspectives
• Demonstrates agility and drives change
• Applies critical thinking
• Knows the business and stays current on industry needs
Technical Skills/Knowledge
• Personal connections with U.S. federal lawmaker offices a
• Knowledge of transportation policy, rail industry regulations, and legislative processes
About CN
CN is a world-class transportation leader and trade-enabler. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. As the only railroad connecting Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the Southern tip of the U.S. through a 19,500 mile rail network, CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship. At CN, we work as ONE TEAM, focused on safety, sustainability and our customers, providing operational and supply chain excellence to deliver results.
CN is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation. Only qualified candidates under consideration will be contacted. Please monitor your email on a regular basis, as communication is primarily made through email.