Job Title

Colleges Ontario seeks new Senior Research and Policy AdvisorsConsider this exciting opportunity with Colleges Ontario, the advocacy association for the provinces 24 public colleges. Colleges Ontario is seeking to hire two new Senior Research and Policy Advisors to lead important research and analysis to help inform the college sectors advocacy and engagement with the Ontario government.This is an opportunity to support Ontarios public colleges in providing leading-edge programs and services that empower people to maximize their potential in a rapidly evolving economy.Reporting to the Vice President Policy and Innovation, the ideal candidate(s) will have exceptional strategic policy, quantitative analysis, interpersonal and communication skills to provide specialized, expert advice on a broad range of issues, including the sectors economic impact and value in supporting Ontarios talent pipeline.What can I expect to do in this role?In the role of Senior Research and Policy Advisor, you will: Lead strategic policy and program analysis related to an assigned portfolio of issues and new issues as they arise. One of the advisor positions will include a focus on understanding the economic impact of the college sector and its ties to the provinces workforce development needs, especially as related to the skilled trades. Undertake research and analysis, including quantitative and qualitative analysis, on a broad range of topics in support of Ontario's college system. Prepare policy recommendations to support the colleges advocacy agenda and Colleges Ontarios strategic plan. Provide strategic advice and input to Colleges Ontarios senior management team, college presidents and senior college administrators. Build and strengthen strategic relationships and partnerships with colleges, government and other stakeholders. Prepare a wide range of written materials such as research reports, briefing documents and policy presentations.How do I qualify?Technical skills and knowledge You have a masters-level credential (preferred) or an equivalent combination of education and experience. You have practical experience in public policy development and a minimum of seven (7) years of experience with the post-secondary sector, the provincial government or a comparable work environment. You have a background in economics, with knowledge and skills in understanding workforce development issues, economic impact analyses and modelling, and the ability to conduct analyses on a wide range of related issues (this is not required for the second position). You have experience using standard computer software including word processing, database, data analysis and presentation software applications.Policy development, analysis and research You have the ability to apply your knowledge of government policy development and the college system to lead or participate in the development of strategies and policy proposals in a fast-paced environment. You can apply research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, critical thinking and problem-solving skills to undertake research and background studies, identify issues and develop policy options across a wide range of issues relevant to the college sector. You can apply economic principles and analytic techniques, to understand and interpret the economic impact of the college sector, and its role in supporting the provinces workforce pipeline (applicable for only one position). You can interpret government decision-making processes and relevant legislation and have analytical skills to assess the impact of policy options and proposals on college programs, services, operations and finances and propose modifications or changes to proposals to mitigate identified potential risks.Project management You have excellent project management and problem-solving skills to plan and execute multiple research and policy projects to deadlines, addressing issues arising, independently and in a team environment.Communication, relationship management, consultation and leadership skills You have very effective oral and written communication and presentation skills to respond to issues, provide recommendations and prepare reports, briefing materials and correspondence, including presenting complex information and analysis in succinct and accessible formats. You are adept at working with and providing representation on working groups to refine policy ideas and you are able to promote policy initiatives to internal and external stakeholders. You have strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work independently and in a team environment, and the ability to coordinate, negotiate, mediate and influence. You have demonstrated experience communicating sensitive information to stakeholders.The current salary range for this position is $111,288 -$139,110Interested candidates are to submit their cover letter and resume as a single PDF document by April 10th, to Luly Bello via email at those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in working with Colleges Ontario.Our Commitment to Diversity: We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We encourage all qualified applicants of all races, colors, religions, sexes, sexual orientations, gender identities, national origins, and disability statuses to apply.If at any stage in the selection process you require accommodations, please let us know the nature of the requiredaccommodation.Transparency: Colleges Ontario uses AI to draft job descriptions, with final versions reviewed and approved by human professionals to ensure accuracy, fairness and inclusivity.For more information about Colleges Ontario, visit