Senior Policy Advisor

Are you interested in contributing to the development of strategies, policies, and legislative/regulatory frameworks that support stronger relationships with and the health and wellbeing of Indigenous communities and peoples in Ontario? If so, please consider this opportunity to provide complex policy analysis and strategic advice in a dynamic, team-oriented division.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.
We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.
We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role, you will:
• lead the conceptualization and development of policy options and recommendations
• lead the design and undertake research and analysis in support of policy and program development
• provide strategic and evidence-based advice on complex policy matters
• develop relationships and engage with Indigenous communities and organizations on policy development matters
• lead consultations with other ministries and other levels of government
• prepare sensitive and confidential materials (e.g. briefing materials, position papers, option papers) that support the ministry's business and decision-making processes

How do I qualify?

Policy Leadership and Coordination Skills

• You have knowledge of policy and program development principles and techniques.
• You have experience leading complex policy initiatives through the policy development and approvals process.
• You have project management skills to concurrently manage multiple projects and initiatives.

Research and Analysis Skills

• You have experience applying research methodologies and techniques to gather appropriate and reliable data from a variety of sources.
• You have experience analyzing qualitative and quantitative data to develop evidence-based policy options and recommendations.
• You have experience developing performance measures to effectively assess the impact of government policies and programs.

Knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and Relevant Issues

• You understand the factors and issues impacting and influencing Indigenous policy development (e.g. the Crown's legal duty to consult, unique socio-economic conditions impacting Indigenous communities, Indigenous and Treaty rights and inter-governmental relations).

Communication and Relationship Management Skills

• You have experience engaging with Indigenous communities and organizations as well as building effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• You have consultation skills to build consensus across multiple partners and stakeholders.
• You have tact and diplomacy to lead the resolution of sensitive policy development issues.
• You have oral communication skills to proficiently deliver presentations to a variety of audiences.
• You have written communication and computer skills to prepare a variety of materials for senior decision makers (e.g. research reports, briefing notes, options papers, correspondence).