Indigenous Relations Policy Advisor

**The Job** Are you interested in contributing to the development of policy on Indigenous matters related to gaming and cannabis, and supporting effective meetings and negotiations? The Gaming and Cannabis Policy Branch (GCPB) is looking for someone with strong collaboration and relationship management skills as well as experience working with First Nations communities and Indigenous organizations. **The Ministry** The mission of the Ministry of Finance is to establish an environment which will ensure a dynamic, innovative and growing economy and to manage the fiscal, financial and related regulatory affairs of the Province of Ontario. **The Branch** The Gaming and Cannabis Policy Branch is responsible for leading and coordinating policy development related to gaming and cannabis and is made up of two units. The Cannabis Policy Unit leads policy development related to provincial wholesale and distribution for recreational cannabis. In addition, the Cannabis Policy Unit manages the accountability and oversight relationship between the government and the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS). The Gaming Policy Unit leads policy development related to lottery, casino, charitable and online gaming, as well as horse racing. The Gaming Policy Unit manages the accountability and oversight relationship between the government and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). **Why work for the Ontario Public Service?** The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment. We offer: - **Competitive compensation and benefits**: - Flexible work arrangements - Collegial and professional work culture - Career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas - On-the-job training to support your success in the role **OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism**: We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace. Visit the **OPS Anti-Racism Policy** and the **OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint** pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service. We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's **Human Rights Code**. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation. **What can I expect to do in this role?**: In this role, you will: - Provide advice on Indigenous matters related to gaming and cannabis, reporting to the Director, and working closely with both units in the branch - Plan, lead and facilitate policy research/analysis and formulate recommendations for senior management, the Deputy Minister and the Minister - Enhance Ministry awareness of Indigenous perspectives, issues and best practices for engaging with Indigenous people - Plan, support and, in some instances, lead meetings and negotiations with First Nations and Indigenous organizations - Lead and participate in multi-disciplinary and multi-ministry project teams - Prepare a range of materials (e.g. Cabinet submissions, briefing notes, position papers) and give presentations in support of decision-making **How do I qualify?**: **Relationship Management and Consultation**: - You can effectively communicate and consult with Indigenous partners and other contacts to obtain, provide and exchange project data/information. - You can develop and sustain effective working relationships with a diverse group of people to achieve consensus on issues. - You have strong persuasion, mediation and facilitation skills. - You have a strong understanding of social policy creation to consult and negotiate when developing options for projects. - You have written and oral communication skills to prepare and present agreements, and prepare reports and policy recommendations. **Specialized Knowledge**: - You have knowledge of policies, programs and legislation relating to Indigenous issues. - You have knowledge of the cannabis, gaming and alcohol sectors in Ontario and demonstrate an understanding of Indigenous matters. - You are familiar with decision-making processes and business/program analysis and evaluation practices. **Issues Management and Research Skills**: - You can anticipate and manage issues associated with agreements, projects and programs. - You can formulate and make recommendations regarding contentious issues affecting Indigenous people. **Project Management Skills**: - You have strong project management skills. - You can manage complex and sensitive project issues. **Additional Information**: **Address**: - 1 Temporary, duration up to 12 months, 375 University Ave, Toronto, Toronto Region **Compensation Group**: - Association of Management, Administrative and Profess