POSITION ID # 33989
Position: Policy Advisor – Child & Family Services
Location: Ottawa, ON or remote outside of Ottawa.
Work Type: Hybrid – 2–3 days per week onsite if in Ottawa (remote outside of Ottawa with occassional travel)

ABOUT OUR CLIENT:

Our client is a national organization committed to advancing the rights, well-being, and self-determination of Indigenous peoples across Canada. They work collaboratively with communities, governments, and partner organizations to influence policy and deliver programs that strengthen Indigenous families and communities.

They are seeking a Policy Advisor – Child & Family Services to play a key role in shaping the future of Indigenous child and family policy in Canada. This position is ideal for a thoughtful, strategic professional who brings a deep understanding of Indigenous perspectives, governance, and child welfare frameworks, and who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative policy environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Policy Advisor – Child & Family Services will perform a range of policy development and advisory functions, including but not limited to:

• Conduct research, analysis, and provide strategic advice to support the development of national and regional child and family service initiatives.
• Contribute to the creation, evaluation, and implementation of policies and programs that reflect Indigenous culture, rights, and community priorities.
• Analyze complex legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks, assessing their impact on Indigenous citizens and recommending solutions that advance equitable outcomes.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with federal and provincial governments, Indigenous organizations, and community agencies to support advocacy and shared policy objectives.
• Represent the organization at intergovernmental meetings, conferences, and policy forums, ensuring Indigenous perspectives are accurately reflected.
• Prepare briefing notes, reports, position papers, and communication materials to support leadership and decision-making.
• Monitor emerging policy issues, research, and trends to identify opportunities for collaboration or advocacy.
• Support consensus-based approaches to engagement and decision-making among leadership and Governing Members.
  
  

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A Master’s degree in Social Work, Public Policy, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in policy analysis, development, or advisory roles, preferably within an Indigenous or government context.
• Deep understanding of Indigenous child and family service frameworks, governance structures, and community values.
• Strong knowledge of public policy, legislation, and government operations at both federal and provincial levels.
• Proven ability to influence and advocate effectively with government agencies, elected officials, and national decision-making bodies.
• Exceptional research, writing, and communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.
• Strong judgment, diplomacy, and confidentiality when managing sensitive policy issues.
• High level of organization and adaptability, with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally, sometimes on short notice.

Assets:

• Experience preparing funding proposals and policy submissions.
• Demonstrated creativity and strategic thinking in developing practical policy solutions.
• Familiarity with Métis-specific issues, governance, and community priorities.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be able to provide a clean Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector screening.
  
  
  

WHAT WILL MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

• Deep understanding of Indigenous culture, history, and community dynamics.
• Proven ability to build partnerships and foster collaboration across diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic, creative, and resilient approach to complex policy challenges.
• Professional presence and composure in high-stakes or sensitive environments.

Note:
At Recruiting in Motion, we may leverage AI-powered tools in our recruitment process. AI will never reach out to candidates directly. For personalized assistance or more details on our recruitment process, please contact our hiring team.