Public Policy Analyst

at  Canadian Mental Health Association

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontario is a provincial association, committed to improving services and support for individuals living with mental illnesses and addictions issues, and to the promotion of mental health in Ontario.

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director, Public Policy at CMHA Ontario, the Analyst will lead and coordinate projects on public policy-related issues to mental health and / or addictions. The Policy Analyst may be expected to provide critical analyses on topics related to the social determinants of health, system transformation, healthy public policy, health system planning and service delivery. The position will work across the organization and will be expected to collaborate with other teams including Communications, Government Relations, Branch Relations, Quality and System Performance and Justice Policy.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Graduate degree in public policy, social work, health administration, epidemiology, law, or a related field.
• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in policy development, policy analysis, or research required.
• Familiarity with the mental health and addiction system or the Ontario health system is required.
• Working knowledge of the issues faced by persons with mental health and/or addiction related conditions is required, including issues relating to housing, homelessness, and employment.
• Familiarity with key concepts of mental health promotion, health equity and social determinants of health is an asset.
• Experience working in multi-sectoral partnerships and liaising with non-governmental organizations and government agencies, and knowledge of the public policy environment in Ontario is required.
• Experience managing projects and managing multiple tasks within established timelines in a team environment is required.
• Work experience in the community sector is an asset.

Behavioural Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Initiative/Self-Starter Attitude
• Professionalism/Work Ethic/Confidentiality
• Teamwork/Collaboration
• Interpersonal Communication
• Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
• Time Management
• Adaptability

• Develops expertise in policy areas based on portfolio and maintains an up-to-date knowledge of relevant research studies, issues, and trends impacting the mental health and addiction sector and the specific areas of focus.
• Investigates trends and opportunities, coordinates projects that convene multiple stakeholders, manages a community of practice, reviews legislation and public policy, and recommends policy options for CMHA Ontario to contribute to the promotion of mental health in Ontario and the advancement of CMHA Ontario’s strategic plan.
• Designs and analyzes surveys, as well as extracts, analyzes and reports secondary data that supports the policy functions of the organization.
• Prepares analyses of outcomes and costs associated with mental health and addiction service delivery, including cost effectiveness and cost comparative analyses.
• Monitors and tracks Ontario government and provincial health system priorities impacting CMHA branches and the mental health and addiction system.
• Prepares critical reviews, briefs, reports, policy submissions, and presentations, and provides policy advice to CMHA Ontario’s leadership.
• Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of data and information sources related to health system use, mental health service delivery, housing, sociodemographic.
• Supports and participates in the development of knowledge translation resources related to areas of focus.
  Note: This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required by the incumbent. The incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.