Senior Policy Advisor

What You Can Expect

The Senior Policy Advisor plays a critical role in advancing the Bereavement Authority of Ontario's (BAO) regulatory and consumer protection mandate through evidence-based policy analysis, operational policy development, and stakeholder engagement. Reporting to the Chief Compliance Officer/ Deputy Registrar, this role provides expert advice on legislative interpretation, regulatory compliance trends, and operational impacts across the bereavement sector.

The incumbent leads complex policy research initiatives, translates data and sector intelligence into actionable policy recommendations, and supports BAO's oversight of licensees under the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002. This role serves as a trusted internal advisor and an external liaison with government partners, sector associations, and stakeholders.

What You'll Do

Policy Research and Analysis

• Lead research and analysis on legislative, regulatory, and operational policy issues impacting the bereavement sector.
• Conduct environmental scans and jurisdictional reviews to support policy development and strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and assess policy and regulatory developments across provincial and national jurisdictions, identifying risks, trends, and opportunities for BAO.
• Provide clear, timely, and evidence-based policy advice to senior leadership on emerging issues, sector risks, and regulatory impacts.
• Analyze complaint trends, compliance data, and operational outcomes to inform policy direction and regulatory responses.

Operational Policy Development and Regulatory Support

• With the Policy Analyst, lead the development, review, and modernization of operational policies, frameworks, and guidance materials to support regulatory compliance and consistency.
• Interpret and assess the administration of the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 and associated regulations, identifying policy gaps or implementation challenges.
• Evaluate the operational and consumer impact of legislative or policy changes on key stakeholders.
• Draft high-quality policy papers, briefing notes, decision documents, and presentations for executive leadership and the Board.
• Support organizational readiness for regulatory or legislative change through policy tools and internal guidance.

Data Analysis, Reporting and Performance Insights

• Analyze qualitative and quantitative data related to compliance activity, complaints, inspections, and enforcement outcomes.
• Ensure accuracy, integrity, and consistency of policy-related data used to inform decision-making and public accountability.
• Work closely with the Business Systems Analyst to create and review reporting requirements, performance indicators, and standardized dashboards.
• Translate data insights into policy recommendations, trend analysis, and operational improvements.

Stakeholder and Government Engagement

• Serve as a key point of contact for policy-related engagement with provincial ministries, intergovernmental partners, and sector associations.
• Lead or support consultations with stakeholders on proposed policy or operational changes, synthesizing feedback into clear recommendations.
• Prepare briefing materials, correspondence, and communications for external audiences, including government officials and sector leaders.
• Represent BAO in cross-functional working groups, consultations, and meetings related to operational policy and regulatory oversight.

What You Bring to the Role

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, or a related discipline from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive experience in policy analysis, regulatory environments, or public sector oversight.
• Demonstrated experience developing operational or regulatory policy in a compliance-based or consumer protection context.
• Experience working with legislation, regulations, or delegated administrative authorities is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated skill in using Microsoft Office Suite products. Experience using data analysis and management systems (eg. Microsoft Dynamics, Power BI) is an asset.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize complex information, data, and stakeholder input into clear policy options.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex policy issues clearly, confidently, and persuasively in a timely manner.
• Strong judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling sensitive information and regulatory matters.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, competing priorities, and evolving policy environments with confidence and sound decision-making.

About the BAO 

The Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) is a government delegated authority and not-for-profit corporation administering provisions of the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 (FBCSA). Accountable to the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement and the government, the BAO is responsible for the protection of the public interest. The BAO regulates, ensures compliance with the law, provides resources and services to licensed:

• Funeral establishment operators, directors and preplanners;
• Cemetery, crematorium and alternative disposition operators;
• Transfer service operators; and
• Bereavement sector sales representatives across Ontario.

The BAO is wholly funded by licensee fees (not tax dollars).

Why Choose the BAO?

Hybrid Work: Enjoy our flexible hybrid work schedule, with the ability to work remotely up to 3 days per week.

Comprehensive Personal Time Off: We advocate the importance of down-time and personal well-being, as demonstrated by our generous paid time off policies.

Wellness & Health Support: Take advantage of our extensive range of health benefits designed to prioritize both your physical and mental well-being.

Professional Development: Get assistance for continuous education and professional development to drive your career growth.

RRSP: Help build a secure financial future through our employer matched RRSP contribution plan.

The BAO offers a casual work environment, flexible work hours, and a competitive compensation and benefits package. The BAO is an equal opportunity employer and committed to fostering an accessible and inclusive environment for employees and licensees. If you require any accommodation for the recruitment/interview process (including alternate formats of materials, or accessible meeting rooms or other accommodation), please let our HR department know and we will work with you to meet your needs.