Associate Counsel, Health and Privacy Law

ABOUT US

Almost 1.2 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 a comprehensive employer-paid benefits plan that includes extended health, dental and life insurance, access to a 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program and corporate discounts and purchase plans for day-to-day products and services.
• 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.

POSITION PURPOSE

This position is responsible for providing advice on a broad range of health law and privacy law matters to Regional Council, Committees, departments, including the Community and Health Services Department, corporations, boards and related entities. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides legal and procedural advice to various Regional departments, corporations, boards and related entities on applicable legislation. 
• Provides advice on health law and privacy law matters.
• Provides risk management advice and strategies.
• Provides general advice on obligations and responsibilities of Regional Council.
• Negotiates and prepares agreements and other legal documents for municipal service delivery, project implementation, and operational requirements of Regional departments, corporations, boards and related entities.
• Attends departmental and cross-departmental meetings, as required.
• Responds to client enquiries directly and/or resolves difficult or highly sensitive complaints either verbally or in writing.
• Negotiates with external agencies and municipal partners, including Provincial and Federal government departments and ministries.
• Retains and instructs external legal counsel, consultants, and other professionals, as authorized.
• Maintains current knowledge of developments in the law and their application to Regional responsibilities.
• Performs other duties as required to meet Branch and Departmental objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Successful completion of a University Degree in Law (L.L.B.) or Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.).
• Membership in good standing as a Lawyer in the Law Society of Ontario.
• Minimum one to three (1-3) years of experience in health law and/or privacy law. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of privacy laws, including the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004. 
• Experience in contract negotiation and contract preparation.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer service, communication, teamwork, initiative/self-management and accountability, and flexibility/adaptability.
• Effective interpersonal and presentation skills to interact with members of Regional Council and staff of Regional departments, corporations, boards and other government agencies.
• Computer literacy utilizing MS Office software applications. 

BENEFITS TO WORKING HERE

• Progressive programs, competitive benefits, employee satisfaction and community involvement
• Leading wellness programs that inspire employees to lead happier, healthier lives
• Flexible work arrangements, which include remote work opportunities, where available
• Diverse and inclusive environment
• Recognized on the Forbes list of Canada's Best Employers 2022 as the highest-ranking government employer in Canada, ranking fourth overall among 300 organizations