COMMUNICATIONS/LEGAL - PATENT AGENT 22 Government Affairs Manager COMMUNICATIONS/LEGAL COMMUNICATIONS/LEGAL - GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MANAGER Government and business institutions are interdependent. Businesses push forward the economy while governments shape how they grow. Although governments regulate all businesses there are some that are more greatly affected. The food industry for example is regulated in many regards by the government. From a food safety perspective the government sets regulations and standards which businesses must adhere to operate. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency verifies that food sold in Canada meets Health Canada’s requirements. Another example would be that the government impose minimum wage pays that businesses must follow. Keeping up with regulations might be easier for small businesses but things can get much more complicated when it comes to larger ones. Those that navigate this complex landscape are known as a government affairs managers. Similar to a policy affairs manager they help to ensure that businesses keep up with new government regulations. As well, help to influence policies if they won’t negatively impact an industry. 1. Government Affairs Managers Advocate for The Organization Government Affairs Managers (GAMs) help organizations by keeping up-to-date with the latest changes in government policy and regulations and relaying this information to the organizations that they work for. By understanding the intricacies of governmental policies they can help organizations develop strategies to ensure compliance and avoid negative consequences. GAMs must have a strong understanding of how government works, including the legislative process, regulatory agencies, and political trends. An important part of a GAM’s job is to build relationships with key government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders. GAMs attend meetings, conferences, and events to introduce themselves, establish trust, and offer solutions that align with their organization’s goals and objectives. They manage their relationships with government officials and policymakers by keeping them informed about their organization’s activities, priorities, and positions. GAMs also develop strategies to advocate for their organization’s interests. They may engage in activities such as educating lawmakers and regulatory agencies, building campaigns to engage the public, or working with other industry groups to build a coalition of support. Overall, GAMs represent organizations in government affairs and play a vital role in shaping how policies affect the food and beverage industries. 2. Government Affairs Managers Monitor Legislative and Regulatory Developments In Canada legislations (also known as an acts) are forms of law and can provide the authority to make regulations. For example, in 2022 the Canadian government created a new food safety initiative known as the Food Safe Act which was responsible for improving food safety measures for the food and beverage industry. This act shook the industry forcing companies to improve their food safety standards and in many ways change how they do business. Government Affairs Managers were the first in the know when it came understanding how these changes would affect businesses. By keeping up with the legislative changes they were able to help develop strategies their organizations could take to ensure compliance. As a result, they were able to work with different department heads of the organization to ensure that they were prepared and following the new legislation. Overall, these professionals stay-up-to-date with the latest developments in government policy and regulations. If they didn’t it could mean huge consequences for the business. As a result, they must have a strong understanding of how government works, including the legislative process, regulatory agencies and political trends. 3. Government Affairs Managers Build Relationships A Government Affairs Manager role is a relationship heavy one that involves building connections with key government officials, Government Affairs Manager Navigating policies and regulations Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko/pexels.com
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