Director, Strategic Policy & Intergovernmental Relations

Role Responsibilities

Reporting to Executive Director, the Director Policy Innovation and Intergovernmental Relations is responsible for: 

• Developing and integrating the ministry’s strategic policy and land policy in alignment with overarching ministry and GoA frameworks, approaches, priorities and relevant case law.
• Liaising with federal/provincial/territorial counterparts across Canada and with other Ministries in the GoA, including Executive Council.
• Leading the development of strategic policy documents and materials, and provides expert advice to support Executive Team, Assistant Deputy Ministers, the Deputy Minister and the Minister of Indigenous Relations, as well as officials in other Ministries.
• Collaborating, and leading cross-ministry groups in development of government-wide Indigenous policy frameworks (Indigenous Self Government Policy Framework, Cumulative Effects Framework, etc.) and responsible for maintenance and dissemination of existing cross-government policies (Aboriginal Policy Framework, etc.) to inform and guide department officials’ responses to specific initiatives.
• Tracking and identifying emerging trends and developments in relevant policy initiatives across the GoA, in other jurisdictions, at the federal level and in national Indigenous organizations. • Identifying policy challenges and opportunities, as well as developing policy solutions to advance the Indigenous perspective across government and other policy sectors. 
• Leading foresight analysis and development by directing focused e-scanning, synthesized analysis, reporting and recommendations to inform and facilitate responses to emerging issues of import for the Ministry and Indigenous peoples.
• Supporting SEPI to create and sustain SEPI as a Centre of Excellence regarding Indigenous strategic policy advice, engagement and consultation policy on land and natural resource development.
• Sustaining strong internal and external relationships that facilitate policy development that other areas of the Ministry may implement efficiently. The Director is accountable for representing the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and the Government of Alberta in cross ministry and federal/provincial/territorial policy forums and discussions; and for advancing Alberta’s priorities and interests at a pan-Canadian and national level in the absence of clearly defined objectives and directions. 

The Director manages the unit and is accountable for deliverables that align with the Ministries annual business plan. 

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: Fosters connection and collaboration by encouraging diverse perspectives, engaging stakeholders, and promoting shared solutions through open communication and resource sharing.

Systems Thinking: Plans with a long-term, big-picture view, aligning strategies with ministry goals and anticipating broader impacts to manage risks and inform decision-making.

Develop Self & Others: Seeks feedback and learning opportunities, while supporting others’ growth and staying current with emerging trends and technologies.

Agility: Adapts quickly to change, anticipates risks and opportunities, and supports others through transitions while maintaining focus on results.

Creative Problem Solving: Encourages innovation and open dialogue to tackle complex issues, balancing creativity with informed risk-taking and practical solutions.

Drive for Results: Aligns actions with organizational goals, removes barriers, and proactively addresses challenges to achieve long-term, integrated outcomes.

Develop Networks: Builds strong, trust-based relationships by understanding stakeholder needs and ensuring their perspectives shape decisions and policies. 

Qualifications

Minimum Recruitment Standards:

4 years University graduation (Public Policy, Political Science, Native Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences) in a related field plus 7 years progressively responsible related experience; or equivalent as described below.

Equivalency: Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of:

• 1 year of education for 1 year of experience; or
• 1 year of experience for 1 year of education

Assets:

• Extensive experience in policy development, research, and analysis, preferably in an Indigenous or government context.
• In-depth knowledge of Indigenous history, governance, organizations, and cultures, particularly those relevant to Alberta’s First Nations and Métis communities.
• Familiarity with provincial, federal, and Indigenous policy directions and priorities.
• Awareness of national and global Indigenous policy trends, agreements, and legislation.
• Experience with strategic policy frameworks and coordinated policy approaches.
• A Master’s degree and/or a doctorate/law degree would be an asset.
• Proven ability to foster innovation, manage team performance, and drive results in dynamic policy environments.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams to deliver complex policy initiatives and intergovernmental strategies.

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 (full time) Monday to Friday.

Term of Employment:

• 1 permanent full time position

 Location:

• Edmonton, Alberta

Please note, for all work experience use the following date range format in your resume: [Month, Year – Month, Year]. Cover letter is Mandatory.

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.)

Links and information on what the GoA have to offer to prospective employees:

• 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