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Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation

Senior Policy Analyst, Aboriginal Housing Policy - Level 10 (temporary assignment for one year)

Interested candidates must apply by 16 June 2010 (Eastern Time)
Reporting to the Manager, Aboriginal Housing Policy, the Senior Policy Analyst, Aboriginal Housing Policy, is responsible for providing substantive expertise, knowledge and analytical support in the planning, research and development of policies and strategies directed at meeting the housing needs of Aboriginal peoples on and off-reserve and in the North. Essential functions are as follows:

Environmental Scanning and Issue Identification Anticipates emerging policy issues and demands for policy research, analysis and advice, by proactively scanning the public policy environment, including the Cabinet agenda and key government announcements (Budgets, Throne Speeches); policy platforms, position papers and recommendations of political parties and housing stakeholders; reports issued by public policy think tanks; media reports; public opinion surveys; and local, national, and international policy-related developments.

Analyzes and synthesizes information from diverse sources to provide senior management and the Minister with timely assessments of potential implications/opportunities for housing and for CMHC and to identify priority gaps in policies and related policy research and analysis.

Policy Research, Analysis and Advice Manages and conducts rigorous research and analysis to support authoritative policy advice on matters pertaining to national housing policies, programs and strategies, to support recommendations to senior management and the Minister concerning CMHC's future mandate, role, and policy and program mix.

Employs a diverse range of quantitative and qualitative analytical techniques, including scenario-building, forecasting, modeling of alternatives, cost-benefit analysis, contingency planning, etc., to develop appropriate housing policy frameworks and to provide robust assessments of short-to-long-term housing policy options and expected outcomes.

Provides input and advice concerning Corporate strategies, to ensure that business line activities are well-aligned with government priorities and emerging opportunities.
Assists in the identification and development of policy-related data and statistical frameworks.
Development of Policies, Programs and Strategies Drawing on policy research results and liaison with central agencies, other federal departments and key housing stakeholders, develops formal proposals for housing policies, programs, and strategies through policy papers, decks, Aide-Memoire and Memoranda to Cabinet.

Assesses central agency, departmental and provincial/territorial positions, and conducts consultations and negotiations, as required, to ensure that policy proposals are well-conceived, aligned with government priorities and objectives, and will receive support at Cabinet.
Provides policy recommendations to senior management and the Minister and develops related budgets, implementation plans, critical paths and performance measurement regimes.
Strategic Communications and Issues Management Develops strategic communications advice and prepares a range of strategic communications materials (including presentation decks, speaking points, Qs and As, strategy notes, briefing notes, correspondence, etc.) to support senior management and the Minister in effectively communicating housing policy proposals and positions and to manage sensitive issues related to housing issues and CMHC's mandate, policies, programs and operations.

Intergovernmental, Interdepartmental and Central Agency Liaison
Maintains ongoing liaison with key counterparts and contacts in provincial/territorial housing agencies, other federal government departments, and Central Agencies to provide policy advice, share information concerning government priorities and strategic initiatives, and discuss related policy and program proposals.  Represents CMHC and, where required, organizes meetings, committees, working groups and consultative bodies to communicate Corporate priorities and policy positions and to obtain input to, and negotiate, specific CMHC policy proposals.
Qualifications

Education/Experience

* University degree in a related discipline with 5 years of work related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
*Demonstrated sound experience in conducting analysis and developing policy and position papers.
*Demonstrated experience in conducting research.
*Demonstrated superior analytical and written experience.
*A Masters degree would be considered an asset.

Knowledge/Skills

*In depth knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal affairs and their context.
*Comprehensive understanding of housing policies, the Aboriginal housing environment, and CMHC/DIAND housing programs.
*Demonstrated awareness, appreciation, and respect for Aboriginal cultures and identities.
*Familiarity with federal government agencies/departments and their involvement in Aboriginal affairs.
*Sound knowledge of all aspects affecting the affordability and supply of housing in Aboriginal communities.
*Solid understanding of housing policies and issues and the government policy development process.
*Awareness of social, economic, and political trends that affect the provision of housing in Aboriginal communities.
*Ability to manage research projects.

Competencies

Core:

*Client focus
*Entrepreneurial/Innovative
*Valuing and Respecting Individuals

Functional:

* Analytical Thinking
* Communication (Presenting and influencing)
* Focus on Results
* Forward/Strategic Thinking
* Maximizing Quality
* Political/Cultural Sensitivity
* Relationship Building
* Teamwork
* Flexibility

Candidates who do not meet all of the position requirements may be considered in an underfill capacity, in which case the person will be hired at a lower level than the position level.
Please note that a written test to evaluate your written skills will be administered as part of the staffing process.