Director, Food Policy & Regulatory Affairs

DIRECTOR, FOOD POLICY & REGULATORY AFFAIRSFULL-TIME-HYBRIDMISSISSAUGA OR OTTAWA, ONThe Company

Our client is a leading national NGO specializing in regulatory affairs, policy development and government relations to support the well-being of Canadians with offices in Mississauga and Ottawa.

Company Perks and Rewards

• Salary $120k
• Incentive bonus 10%
• Comprehensive benefits & generous vacation
• Hybrid work model-2 days in office
• Great work life balance
• Collaborate with industry leaders

The Job!

As the Director, Food Policy and Regulatory Affairs, you will lead sector committees focused on food, nutrition, health, and regulatory policy, shaping unified industry viewpoints and actionable proposals that encourage innovation and reduce compliance barriers. Your responsibilities will include the following:

• Advise internal policy, regulatory, and government affairs teams on technical and legislative matters related to food and nutrition.
• Coordinate consultation processes with member organizations to develop formal submissions, position papers, and strategic recommendations.
• Keep stakeholders informed about regulatory developments, scientific issues, and policy trends affecting manufacturers.
• Act as an industry representative in discussions with public authorities, presenting evidence-based perspectives and advocating for member interests.
• Lead engagement in Codex Alimentarius, including coordinating member input, shaping evidence-based policy positions, and representing industry perspectives in international standard-setting forums
• Oversee participation in international food standards initiatives, consolidating member input, interpreting technical texts, and translating them into regulatory, trade, and market-access strategies.
• Build and sustain productive relationships with government bodies, industry partners, and professional groups.
• Work closely with public affairs staff to strengthen outreach efforts tied to priority policy files.
• Partner with communications specialists to craft messaging, statements, and advocacy materials aligned with strategic objectives.

Ideally you have

• Nutrition, food policy experience
• Strategic foresight shaping policy
• Can influence external environments (government, members)

What you bring to the job

You are someone with proven analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate complex issues and formulate balanced policy positions and come with the following qualifications:

• Advanced academic credentials in nutrition, public health, or a related discipline; professional dietetic designation or regulatory affairs training considered advantageous.
• Around a decade or more of experience in nutrition or food policy within industry, government, or public health environments.
• Deep familiarity with Canadian legislation governing food, safety, and consumer protection.
• Strong knowledge of global food standards frameworks and their influence on domestic regulation and trade.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing projects, facilitating stakeholder discussions, and guiding groups toward consensus outcomes.
• Skilled communicator capable of presenting technical concepts clearly in both written and verbal formats for senior audiences.
• Track record producing high-level briefings, submissions, and policy documents.
• Strategic thinker able to interpret international developments and assess their national implications.
• Organized, decisive, and results-focused, with sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Effective collaborator who can also operate independently under tight timelines and shifting priorities.
• Strong negotiation, diplomacy, and relationship-management abilities, including comfort engaging diverse stakeholders.

Qualified job seekers are asked to apply with reference #13773.

Expected Compensation: CAD $110,000.00 – 120,000.00

Existing Position Vacancy: Yes

I really look forward to hearing from you, but please understand that I will only be contacting those that are applicable for the role!

Options Consulting Solutions is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all individuals. Applicants selected for an in-person interview will be asked whether specific accommodations are needed to support a personal disability.

You can also find more jobs that may be suited to you on the Options Consulting Solutions Indeed and LinkedIn pages. Follow us on Facebook for job searching tips and other updates.