Program Lead, Social Services Analyst

ABOUT US Almost million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada – and the fastest growing with a population that’s expected to grow to more than 2 million by 2041. Our geography, which is comprised of about 1,800 square kilometers over nine different municipalities, is as beautiful, interesting and diverse as our people. Local government is organized in a two-tier structure and we work together with our local municipalities to provide residents and businesses access to a broad selection of services and resources. WHAT WE OFFER Consistently named one of Canada’s Best Employers by Forbes, we offer a collaborative, progressive workplace that takes pride in our organizational culture and is committed to living The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace – aligned with our vision to create strong, caring and safe communities both within and outside our walls. Defined Benefit Pension Program - With the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) defined benefit pension plan, you can confidently retire knowing that you will have income for life. Eligibility from date of hire as a full-time employee and includes employer-matched contributions. Employer of Choice - Recognized as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations. Benefits and Wellness - Employees and their loved ones have access to an employee health care spending account, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services. Casual employees are eligible to receive payment in lieu of benefits and/or vacation. Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - We’re committed to fostering an environment that celebrates all dimensions of diversity and ensures everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination. Our robust Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility program continues to grow, and has been recognized by the United Nations and many other organizations for our leadership. ABOUT THE ROLE Reporting to the Supervisor, Program Policy and Planning, is responsible for providing policy and analytical support to the Social Services Branch programs, including Ontario Works, Employment Services, Children’s Programs (Child Fee Assistance, Children’s Community Programs and Early Intervention Services), and Homelessness Community Programs; supporting the development of innovative and strategic program policies and plans; researching and analyzing projects; leading outcome-based program development and project teams; developing cross-functional linkages to ensure that Regional policies and programs align with Social Service outcomes; developing innovative and strategic responses to social programs and plans to address human service needs; interpreting and communicating relevant legislation ( Ontario Works) and policies to staff; and providing guidance, training, mentoring, and coordinating, assigning, scheduling and checking the work of assigned staff and ensuring a safe working environment. WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING Develops and implements work plans for program policy and community development strategies, ensuring strong linkages across the Branch with other Departments and stakeholders. Develops program policies and implementation strategies for Branch wide and Divisional initiatives to meet provincial legislation, regulatory requirements and Regionally mandated programs and makes recommendations to the Supervisor and Manager; develops and provides policy interpretation to the Branch, Department and Regional staff, clients and community agencies for programs. Leads cross functional project teams to develop and implement Division, Department and corporate priorities and programs; leads and/or participates on special projects, as assigned; provides policy and program support to the Social Service Branch Divisions, and interprets legislations and assesses impact of legislative and policy changes. Researches, analyzes and evaluates social, economic, political environments and policies in a local and provincial context, evaluating applicability to Branch and Divisions and identifying best practices for inclusion in Regional program proposals. Gathers and analyzes information on Division and human/housing related issues; prepares committee reports, public reports, business cases, policy proposals, presentations, briefing notes and Council reports, that identify impact and options analysis and statistical reports; monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and Division strategies. Gathers and analyzes information, monitors and reviews data to identify trends and develop community and program strategies and identifies impact and options for program improvements or expansion. Provides guidance, training, mentoring and coordinates, assigns, schedules and checks the work of assigned staff. Implements and creates work plans including the scope of work and key deliverables, assigning and preparing timelines and deadlines for projects, while ensuring strong linkages across the branch, other departments and stakeholders. Responds to inquiries and resolves concerns, as appropriate. Ensures that services provided meet Regional customer service standards. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Successful completion of a University Degree or approved equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge of legislation related to Social Service Branch responsibilities such as Ontario Works Act or Child Care and Early Years Act.  Knowledge of the Department’s program delivery operations, programs and services, the community served and client social issues. Demonstrated knowledge of contemporary social research and evaluation methods, including writing detailed reports and proposals.