Director, Strategic Policy & Intergovernmental Relations

Role Responsibilities

Are you ready to lead a policy team who plays a pivotal role in providing guidance, specialized knowledge, and expert advice that ensures Indigenous perspectives are at the heart of developing and implementing policies, programs, services and initiatives government-wide? 

As the Director of Policy Innovation & Intergovernmental Relations, you will bring your leadership expertise and collaborative nature in shaping strategic policy initiatives that support ministry goals and government direction while balancing perspectives of Indigenous communities, the federal government, industry and other stakeholders to support strong, vibrant Indigenous communities and people who fully participate in a prosperous, competitive and diverse Alberta.

Key Responsibilities of the Role Includes: 

• Lead the development and integration of strategic policy aligned with ministry objectives and governmental frameworks, including engaging relevant departments.
• Establish and maintain relationships with federal/provincial/territorial counterparts and other ministries to ensure alignment and support for policy initiatives.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to executive team members, assistant deputy ministers, and other officials on strategic policy matters.
• Track emerging trends and policy developments at various levels of government and indigenous organizations, identifying challenges and opportunities.
• Drive the development of land policy concerning indigenous communities, ensuring alignment with ministry goals and priorities.
• Advocate for the inclusion of indigenous perspectives in governmental decisions, policies, and strategies, fostering collaboration and open working relationships across ministries.
• Lead the unit's operational planning and implementation, including managing staff, financial resources, and fostering a culture of innovation and strategic thinking. 

Apply now for the Director of Policy Innovation & Intergovernmental Relations role and join us in shaping the future of indigenous relations and governmental priorities in Alberta.

Please click on this link to view the job description for this position.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

This link will assist you with understanding competencies:
https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/custom_downloaded_images/psc-alberta-public-service-competency-model.pdf.

Building Collaborative Environments: Creates opportunities for connection and idea-sharing, fostering a positive atmosphere. Utilizes enthusiasm to motivate others towards results and builds effective alliances. 
Agility: Anticipates and adapts quickly to opportunities and risks, fostering proactive practices. Supports others through change and integrates it effectively into existing work.
Creative Problem Solving: Encourages innovation and creativity in addressing complex issues, fostering a culture of positive change. Actively involves the team in generating and implementing new ideas.
Drive for Results: Aligns decisions with organizational needs, ensuring integration and a focus on long-term outcomes. Addresses challenges directly and removes barriers to collaboration.
Develop Networks: Identifies and connects with key contributors, ensuring stakeholder needs are reflected. Builds trust through understanding and meeting stakeholder expectations.
Systems Thinking: Considers long-term impacts and aligns goals with broader organizational priorities. Proactively manages issues to mitigate risks and ensure strategic alignment.

Qualifications

Education and Experience: 4 years university graduation in a field related to the position assignment, supplemented by seven years related experience.

Equivalency: Related experience or education may be considered as an equivalency on a one for one basis.

Experience Required: 

• Extensive experience advising senior officials on complex, politically sensitive issues.
• Deep understanding of intergovernmental and Indigenous issues, including relevant legislation.
• Proven ability to develop strategic policies by integrating diverse perspectives.
• Strong background in policy development, strategic planning, and issue resolution.
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, provincial, and territorial policies impacting Indigenous priorities.
• Demonstrated leadership in navigating complex and politically sensitive environments, including providing guidance to teams in policy development, strategic planning, and issue resolution.

Assets: 

• Demonstrated understanding of governmental operations and policy development processes.
• Proven ability to navigate politically sensitive environments and collaborate effectively within government structures.
• Comprehensive knowledge of applicable legislation, regulations, and government frameworks.
• Experience in operational planning, reporting, and accountability processes within government contexts.

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification. 

Refer to https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-minimum-recruitment-standards.

Notes

Hours of work:  36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday 

Any costs associated with obtaining the required documents/checks as noted or interview travel expenses, will be the responsibility of the candidate. Out-of-province applicants can obtain the required documents/checks from the province they currently reside in.
 

• Working for the Alberta Public Service - https://www.alberta.ca/advantages-working-for-alberta-public-service.aspx.
• Management Employees Pension Plan (MEPP) - https://www.mepp.ca.
• Alberta Public Service Benefit Information - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-benefits.
• Professional learning and development - https://www.alberta.ca/professional-development-support-directive.
• Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool – https://researchapscareers.alberta.ca.
• Positive workplace culture and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to participate in flexible work arrangements such as working from home up to two days per week and modified work schedule agreement.
• Leadership and mentorship programs.