Senior Corporate Strategist

About Us

The Department of Growth and Development drives economic growth and productivity by creating conditions for communities, businesses and households to thrive. The Department works with key partners to foster a dynamic environment that supports innovation and sector development, providing the necessary solutions to grow our population and economy.

About Our Opportunity

Reporting to the Director of Economic Policy, the Senior Corporate Strategist plays a key role in advancing the Department’s economic priorities. Working collaboratively across government, with Crown corporations, and with external partners, this role helps ensure alignment with the Province’s economic agenda. You will lead complex files, analyze economic trends, and support policy and program development that strengthens Nova Scotia’s economy. The successful candidate will bring strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate complex files while fostering productive relationships across a broad network of partners.

Primary Accountabilities

As a Senior Corporate Strategist, you will assist in developing the Department’s processes and aligning goals, plans, and operations. You will achieve this by:

• Leading and managing complex files and initiatives from start to finish, coordinating input from operational partners to develop solutions to multifaceted issues aligned with the department’s broader vision and goals.
• Analyzing complex economic issues and trends, distilling insights into clear, accessible findings and recommendations for senior decision-makers.
• Providing departmental support to Crown corporations and agencies (e.g., Peggy’s Cove Commission, Invest Nova Scotia, Events East Group), offering policy advice, coordination, and guidance as required. Build strong working relationships, maintain awareness of each organization’s mandate and strategic priorities, and help align their work with departmental and government objectives.
• Evaluating economic programs and initiatives, developing key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with strategic goals. Monitor results, report on outcomes, and recommend improvements where performance targets are not being met.
• Building and maintaining effective relationships with departments, agencies, experts, and industry stakeholders to inform policy, share insights, and coordinate resources.
• Reviewing and analyzing policies to identify gaps and present opportunities to strengthen alignment with provincial economic priorities.
• Supporting priority sectors by identifying tools, policy requirements, and opportunities that foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment attraction.
• Providing policy support for departmental programming, including Nova Scotia Loyal, the Community Economic Development Fund.

Qualifications and Experience

We’re looking for a motivated and resourceful professional who builds strong relationships and engages effectively with partners both inside and outside of government. You bring several years of experience developing and implementing policies, programs, or initiatives, along with a proven ability to turn strategy into action.

You demonstrate sound judgment, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement. You are also comfortable working in complex environments where priorities may shift, and collaboration is key.

You must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in program and/or policy development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Ability to write clear and compelling reports, briefing materials, and presentations.
• A Strong track record of building collaborative working relationships across organizations and sectors.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information to senior leadership and external partners.
• Experience managing programs and funding contracts, including reviewing and monitoring disbursements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Desirable assets include:

• Graduate degree in economics, public administration, or business.
• Knowledge of economic development, innovation ecosystems, or sector-specific growth strategies.
• Experience working with Crown corporations, government agencies, or industry associations.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools, performance metrics, or evidence-based policy frameworks.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

We recognize equivalent combinations of training, education, and experience, providing opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Work activities are primarily conducted in a comfortable office setting, with some site visits as required. At times, this position involves pressure from deadlines.

Additional Information

This is a TERM employment opportunity with an anticipated end date of November 9, 2026.  The appointment status (‘term’, ‘temporary’ or ‘casual’) is dependent on the start date of the successful candidate.

What We Offer

• Career Development, where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths