The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontariois a provincial association, committed to improving services and support for individualslivingwith mental illnessesand addictions issues,and to the promotion of mental health in Ontario.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Director, Public Policy at CMHA Ontario, the Policy Analyst will steer and coordinate projects on public policy-related issues at the intersection of criminal justice and mental health which impact on accused persons with mental health disabilities. This position will also act as Policy Advisor to the Provincial Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC) and work closely with the HSJCC Co-Chairs and Steering Committee.

Core Responsibilities

• Recommend policy options for CMHA Ontario to contribute to the promotion of mental health and substance use health in Ontario and the advancement of CMHA Ontarios strategic plan.
• Monitor and track Ontario government and provincial justice priorities (including reviewing legislation, inquests and public policy) impacting CMHA branches and the mental health and addiction system.
• Prepare critical reviews, briefs, reports, policy submissions, surveys and presentations, and provide policy advice to CMHA Ontarios leadership, CMHA branches and the HSJCC.
• Coordinate projects that convene multiple stakeholders and provide support to internal and external communities of practice.
• Appraise service delivery approaches utilized in the criminal justice system (through policing, courts, and correctional services) as well as in the mental health and addictions system, identifying options and monitoring system performance.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of relevant research studies, issues, and trends impacting on the criminal justice and mental health sectors and identifies common themes to prepare clearly articulated written analyses and short papers.

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.

Required Skills & Experience

• A minimum of 5 years experience in policy development, policy analysis, or research.
• Practical work experience in mental health, substance use and addiction, or broader community and social services sector.
• Familiarity with the Criminal Code of Canada and Youth Criminal Justice Act.
• Working knowledge of the criminal justice sector and the intersections between the justice and mental health systems.
• Working knowledge of pathways through the justice system required, specifically with regards to policing, courts, and correctional services.
• Working knowledge of the issues faced by accused persons experiencing mental health or substance use issues 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.
• 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.

Behavioural Competencies

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

Salary

Hiring Rate:This position pays between $81,124.71 and $83,539.88 per annum,based on a 35-hour work week.

The salary grid for this role ranges between $81,124.71at Step 1 and $91,228.95 at Step 5. The initial salary offered for this position is anticipated to fall between Step 1 and Step 2 of the salary grid as posted above as the hiring rate.

The successful candidate will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes pension through HOOPP, life, health, and dental insurance, exclusive paid time-off and opportunities for professional development.

Working Conditions

This is a full-time, regular (permanent) position working standard office hours (currently 35 hours/week). This position is based in Toronto, Ontario and may require regular travel. We arecurrently operating within a hybrid model, with colleagues working from the office at least 3 days/weekand from home up to 2 days/week.

This position is also a desk job with extended periods of sitting, reading, telephone interaction, and working at the computer. This position involves some moderate lifting, shipping, and handling. Attendance at various meetings throughout the workday/workweek will be required; meetings may occur on short notice, depending on the circumstances.

This position is within the OPSEU Bargaining Unit.

As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to maintain and submit proof of full COVID-19 vaccination.

The Canadian Mental Health Association celebrates the value of a diverse workforce that brings professional and lived experience and expertise from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances. Whatever your background, if you feel you meet the requirements of this role then we want to hear from you.

Workplace and candidate accommodation is available at all stages of the recruitment and selection process upon request.