Policy Analyst
Diversified Staffing Services is seeking a Policy Analyst to support a variety of short- and long-term temporary assignments with our clients in the Government of Alberta.
Position Overview:
Reporting to the Manager, the Policy Analyst plays a key role in shaping and informing the strategic direction and priorities of Alberta’s addiction and mental health system. This position leads environmental scanning, research, policy analysis, strategic planning, issues management, and stakeholder coordination to support evidence-based decision-making across the province.
As a member of the Legislation and Policy Unit, the Policy Analyst contributes to high-profile, complex initiatives that generate significant public and political interest. The role supports oversight of addiction and mental health services, legislative modernization efforts, strategic system planning, and innovation initiatives.
This position directly influences the design, development, and implementation of provincial policies and strategies that impact diverse populations and service delivery streams across Alberta.
Position Overview:
Reporting to the Manager, the Policy Analyst plays a key role in shaping and informing the strategic direction and priorities of Alberta’s addiction and mental health system. This position leads environmental scanning, research, policy analysis, strategic planning, issues management, and stakeholder coordination to support evidence-based decision-making across the province.
As a member of the Legislation and Policy Unit, the Policy Analyst contributes to high-profile, complex initiatives that generate significant public and political interest. The role supports oversight of addiction and mental health services, legislative modernization efforts, strategic system planning, and innovation initiatives.
This position directly influences the design, development, and implementation of provincial policies and strategies that impact diverse populations and service delivery streams across Alberta.
Description
Key Responsibilities
Research, Policy Analysis & Strategic Foresight
- Lead environmental scans and research initiatives to inform policy and strategy development.
- Conduct foresight activities to support mid- and long-term system planning.
- Analyze emerging trends, risks, and opportunities impacting addiction and mental health services.
- Synthesize complex data into clear, concise reports, briefings, and presentations for senior leadership.
- Provide evidence-based recommendations to guide strategic priorities and policy decisions.
Planning & Reporting
- Lead the coordinated development of branch operational plans and performance reports.
- Consolidate inputs across units to develop comprehensive strategic planning documents.
- Develop and refine performance measures aligned with ministry goals.
- Maintain planning calendars and support reporting cycles.
- Design and implement dashboards to track system progress and priority initiatives.
Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Build and sustain relationships with stakeholders across government, service providers, and community organizations.
- Represent the branch on cross-ministry and intergovernmental committees and working groups.
- Facilitate consultations to gather input for research and policy development.
- Collaborate with provincial and national partners to share leading practices and emerging trends.
Project & Advisory Support
- Provide strategic advice and recommendations to branch leadership.
- Lead assigned projects with minimal supervision using sound project management practices.
- Support broader unit functions, including evaluation, performance measurement, and process improvement initiatives.
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.
- Knowledge of addiction and mental health systems, concurrent disorders, prevention strategies, and integrated service delivery models.
- Familiarity with government policy development, legislative processes, and business planning frameworks.
- Experience applying systems thinking and foresight methodologies.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills tailored to diverse audiences.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and politically sensitive environment.
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships across sectors.
- Effective project management skills.
- Commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.
Required Skills
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- University degree in Health, Public Policy, Human Services, Social Sciences, or a related field.
- Minimum four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in policy analysis, research, or program development.
- Experience in addiction and mental health, health systems, or public sector environments is considered an asset.
- Research planning and project management experience is preferred.
Thank you for your interest in this opportunity. We appreciate your application, and our recruitment team will contact candidates selected for further consideration.