Job Posting: Policy Analyst

First Peoples Wellness Circle (FPWC) is a national not-for-profit corporation that is governed and managed by Indigenous leaders and exists to improve the lives of Canada’s First Peoples by addressing healing, wellness, and other mental health challenges. The mission of FPWC is to advocate for collaborative transformative change to create pathways to wellness and whole health for First Peoples shaped by diverse Indigenous cultural lenses. Our work focuses on implementation of the First Nation Mental Wellness Continuum Framework and supporting the First Nation workforce of Mental Wellness Teams.

We are currently looking to fill the position of Policy Analyst. This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), fully-remote position. Our head office is located in North Bay, Ontario and individuals from Ontario may be given preference.

Under the direction of the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Programs, the Policy Analyst will be responsible for initiating policy research, analysis and advocacy on issues related to Mental Wellness for First Nations, towards the achievement of improved outcomes. We are a small organization that values collaboration and teamwork.

Position Purpose

Under the direction of the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Programs, the Policy Analyst initiates policy research, analysis and advocacy on issues related to Mental Wellness for First Nations, towards the achievement of improved outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Provides strategic advice and support to the Chief Executive Officer and Team Managers to support the First People Wellness Circle mandate, priorities, through own initiative and as directed
• Gathers, classifies and assesses data, including legislation, laws, policies, trends and government and stakeholder reports within the framework for mental wellness
• Compares data analysis with expressed opinions on proposed policies and develops papers identifying potential positions to such proposed policies
• Prepares letters, reports, submissions, briefs, research, position papers as policy responses are required
• Develops policies, frameworks, strategies and resources, with a focus on mental wellness
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis on the First Nation Mental Wellness Continuum Framework
• Promotes recognition of First Nations culture-based initiatives within area of Mental Wellness
• Develops alternative methodologies to improve policy frameworks as they affect First Nations communities, Mental Wellness service providers and other stakeholders
• Participates and presents on committees, government tables and working groups as required
• Other duties as required by the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Programs

Minimum Experience Required & Minimum Education

• A post graduate level degree in mental wellness related discipline (health/public health) or a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (social work, political science, Indigenous Studies, psychology) and a minimum of two years’ experience in the area of health policy or health delivery and experience working in and researching within a First Nations context OR
• A Bachelor’s level post-secondary degree in mental wellness, health or related social discipline and a minimum of five years’ experience in the area of health policy or health delivery, and experience working in research within a First Nations context.

Competencies

• Critical Thinking
• Building Relationships and Strategic Partnerships
• Results Orientation
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Addictions and Mental Health Competency
• Cultural Competence and Cultural Safety

Technical Skills

• Excellent writing, communication and presentation skills
• Excellent attention to detail, organisational, and time management skills
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Ability to work well autonomously and as a member of a highly-collaborative team
• Ability to act with discretion and handling confidential and privileged information
• Curiosity and commitment to learning
• Proficient in Microsoft Office

Language(s)

• Fluency in English (verbal and written)

Working Environment

• This position is remote, work from home role
• Access to reliable internet, and private office space to work

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary, with full benefits and pension plan and a stipend for working from home
• 3 weeks of paid leave, plus additional paid leaves
• Committed team of supportive and caring professionals, committed to bettering the mental wellness of indigenous communities

Qualified applicants are invited to submit their resume and cover letter, demonstrating how they meet the criteria. While FPWC appreciates all applications, only those who meet the qualifications will be contacted for an interview. First Peoples Wellness Circle gives preference to First Nation applicants for any employment opportunities as per Section 24(1)(a) OHRC.