Senior Policy and Planning Analyst

Consider this exciting opportunity with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to contribute to government initiatives supporting postsecondary education and skills development across Ontario.

We are looking for a Senior Policy and Planning Analyst with exceptional strategic policy and planning skills to develop and implement high profile funding policy and long-term system planning and forecasting initiatives across the ministry.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In the role of Senior Policy and Planning Analyst, you will:

• Lead strategic policy and program initiatives related to funding policy development and enrolment forecasting
• Undertake research and analysis in support of Ontario's postsecondary education system
• Prepare policy recommendations consistent with the government policy agenda and the ministry's strategic direction for postsecondary education
• Conduct and coordinate qualitative and quantitative analysis and financial modelling
• Provide strategic advice and input on policy development issues and evaluation
• Prepare written research and analysis papers, policy presentation materials, briefing documents, and cabinet submissions

How do I qualify?

Policy Development and Financial Analysis Knowledge

• You have the ability to apply your knowledge of policy and program development principles and techniques to lead or participate in the development of strategies, policies and program frameworks and standards.
• You have knowledge of program analysis /evaluation techniques to assess the effectiveness of new/changed policies and programs and to provide recommendations on policy and program delivery.
• You can interpret and apply government decision-making processes and relevant legislation.
• You have skills in financial analysis to interpret and examine financial viability of policy options.

Project Management and Analytical Skills

• You have knowledge of and experience applying project management methods and techniques to coordinate/lead research, analysis documents, and policy development projects.
• You demonstrate analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address impacts of proposed policy changes and modify/make changes to mitigate identified potential risks.
• You have research and project management skills to plan/conduct qualitative/quantitative research studies and evaluate best practices, options, cost and impacts.

Communication, Relationship Management, Consultation and Leadership Skills

• You have effective oral and written communication and presentation skills to to respond to issues, provide recommendations, prepare reports, Cabinet submissions, briefing materials and correspondence to provide representation on working groups and to promote policy initiatives to internal and external stakeholders.
• You have demonstrated consultation, leadership and relationship management skills to lead consultations with stakeholders, and provide policy advice and expertise.
• You possess strong political acuity to develop key stakeholder linkages and to represent ministry policy and program initiatives.

Technical Skills and Knowledge

• You have knowledge of and skills in modelling, forecasting trends and research and statistical analysis methods and tools
• You can conduct research, interpretation and analysis of socio-economic trends, labour market analyses and statistical funding models in support of strategic policy, capital planning and forecasting project/initiatives.
• You have demonstrated research and analytical skills to analyze findings and recommend options and impacts and identify trends.

Computer Proficiency:

• You have experience using standard computer software including word processing, database, data analysis and presentation software applications.

All external applicants (including former employees of the Ontario Public Service) applying to a competition in a ministry or Commission public body must disclose (either in the cover letter or resume) previous employment with the Ontario Public Service. Disclosure must include positions held, dates of employment and any active restrictions as applicable from being rehired by the Ontario Public Service. Active restrictions can include time and/or ministry-specific restrictions currently in force, and may preclude a former employee from being offered a position with the Ontario Public Service for a specific time period (e.g. one year), or from being offered a position with a specific ministry (either for a pre-determined time period or indefinitely). The circumstances around an employee's exit will be considered prior to an offer of employment.

Remember: The deadline to apply is Monday, May 31, 2021 11:59 pm EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for further screening or an interview will be contacted.