Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Associate - TFT

Southlake Health; Newmarket; Hybrid; CAD 49,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Progressive health and dental benefits

HOOPP pension plan with employer and员工

Wellness initiatives and on-site gym

Job summary

Southlake Health seeks an Associate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to help implement DEI and health equity initiatives across the organization. You will collaborate with program managers and patient relations teams to embed DEI into daily operations and culture.

The role involves coordinating projects, developing resources, planning events, researching best practices, and supporting human rights and inclusion efforts with internal teams and external partners.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Social Work, Public Health, Equity Studies, Public Policy & Administration, Law, Business, Human Resources, Education or an equivalent combination.
• Minimum 3 years researching, developing, coordinating and/or implementing DEI, health equity and/or human rights programs.

Responsibilities

• Support DEI objectives to align with People and DEI Plans.
• Provide research and program support for DEI and health equity initiatives.
• Develop relationships and networks to support DEI initiatives and partnerships.
• Coordinate and lead special DEI projects and produce materials as needed.
• Support ERGs including coordination and engagement activities.
• Ensure accessibility and inclusion practices across operations.

Skills

DEI knowledge

Research coordination

Stakeholder engagement

Healthcare experience

Policy communication

Time management

Education

Undergraduate degree in Social Work

Public Health related

Equity Studies background

Public Policy & Admin

HR/Business mix

Job description

Job Category: Professional Hospital

Location: Newmarket ON

Job Type: Temporary (Fixed Term), Full time

Number of Positions: 1

Minimum - Maximum Hourly Rate: $35.82 - $42.58

Why Join Our Team?

A people-first workplace environment that prioritizes belonging, wellness, and psychological safety.

Hybrid, virtual, and in-person working environment (where applicable).

• Progressive health and dental benefit plans.
• HOOPP pension plan with employer and employee premium sharing.
• Enhanced wellness initiatives, including virtual fitness classes and on-site gym memberships.

About the role:

The Associate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) will work collaboratively with the Program Manager, DEI and Manager, Patient Relations and Patient Experience to support the implementation and ongoing evolution of Southlake’s DEI and People Plans. The Associate will support integrating DEI principles into Southlake’s day-to-day operations, programs, and culture. The DEI Associate will contribute to initiatives that foster a culture of belonging and prioritize equity for patients, families, staff, physicians, volunteers, learners, and the communities we serve. The DEI Associate will coordinate projects, develop resources, plan celebrations, research best practices, and support DEI, human rights and health equity initiatives. The role will work collaboratively with internal teams to identify and address systemic barriers to equity and inclusion.

What you’ll be doing:

• Support the implementation of DEI objectives to align with Southlake’s People and DEI Plans
• Provide research and program support for DEI and health equity-related initiatives and opportunities
• Develop and maintain strong relationships and community networks to support DEI initiatives and partnerships
• Network with peers across healthcare and the community to identify emerging practices, resources, and opportunities for collaboration
• Research and develop DEI-related communication materials including newsletters, intranet content, presentations and resources
• Develop draft policies, guidelines, process documents, briefing notes, surveys, reports and other materials as needed
• Support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) including coordination, resource development and engagement activities
• Coordinate and support activities outlined in Southlake’s diversity calendar, including opportunities for education, celebration and recognition
• Support the development and integration of DEI content into Southlake’s Core Curriculum and other learning opportunities
• Advise on engagement activities with staff, physicians, patients, families, and community partners as required
• Collect, synthesize and summarize information, feedback and data to support DEI planning, reporting and continuous improvement
• Coordinate and lead special projects and initiatives related to DEI as required
• Stay current on emerging trends and leading practices related to DEI, health equity, and accessibility
• Supports invoice management, including processing, tracking, reconciliation, and follow-up as required.

What you’ll bring:

• Undergraduate Degree in Social Work, Public Health, Equity Studies, Public Policy & Administration, Law, Business, Human Resources, Education or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 3 years of experience researching, developing, coordinating and/or implementing DEI, health equity and/or human rights programs, initiatives, or strategies.
• Project coordination or management experience is an asset.
• Experience working in a healthcare environment is preferred.
• Working knowledge of the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and relevant legislation.
• Demonstrated understanding of DEI, health equity, accessibility, and human rights practices and emerging trends.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with demonstrated ability to prepare briefing notes, reports, organizational communications, presentations, educational resources and other written materials.
• Experience facilitating groups, learning sessions, and engagement activities.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with diverse internal and external partners.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, projects and deadlines with strong organization and time-management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Lived experience and demonstrated knowledge of Northern York Region and Southern Simcoe County communities strongly preferred.
• Models behaviour that is aligned with the values of Southlake Health Always with compassion Power of many Serve with purpose Every voice matters Courage to think differently Southlake Health is fully committed to a culture of belonging and an inclusive environment that encourages every team member to lead within their role, generate innovative ideas that reinforce our mission and goal to create a healthy workplace where our community can thrive.

Regular and reliable attendance is an expected requirement of this position.

We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier-free. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code. Applicants who may require accommodation during the selection process are encouraged to notify the Human Resources Department when contacted for an interview. The People, Culture and Experience team will work together with the hiring committee to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation for the selection process, which will enable you to be assessed fairly and equitably.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We prioritize a people-first workplace culture which emphasizes equity and inclusion throughout our hiring process. To ensure fairness and transparency, all applications are reviewed and assessed by our dedicated team of recruiters and hiring managers, not by artificial intelligence (AI). We value the unique perspective each candidate brings to our organization.

Health & Safety Workplace Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of all Southlake Health employees to work safely and promote health and safety in the workplace. Employees must adhere to the duties of workers, as stipulated in Section 28 of the OH&S Act, as well as all Southlake OH&S policies and procedures. Must be able to perform all necessary bona fide duties for the position, as outlined in the position guide. Must review and be capable of performing duties as outlined in the Job Demands Analysis for the position as a condition of offer. Proven ability to attend work regularly as per the Attendance Support Policy. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Southlake Health is fully dedicated to employment equity, diversity, and inclusion in our recruitment practices. We welcome candidates who identify with equity-seeking groups, including women, racialized individuals, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and those from the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Any information provided will be kept confidential and used appropriately in our recruitment process.

Anti-Oppression/Anti-Racism at Southlake Health

Southlake Health is committed to having a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of York Region and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals, and from those who can provide different perspectives and contribute to a further diversification of ideas. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About Southlake Health

We’re proud to be recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2026, one of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures for 2025, and one of the World’s Best Hospitals for seven years in a row – recognitions that reflect the strength of our people and our workplace culture. For over 100 years, Southlake Health has been dedicated to building healthy communities through innovative care. While many things have changed over the years, our unwavering pride in our people, place, and performance has stood the test of time. With a passionate family of 6,000 medical professionals, staff, volunteers, and students, we work together every day to deliver exceptional care close to home. We are here for everyone who walks through our doors, no matter where they are in their life journey. Our commitment extends beyond our walls, reaching every community we serve. Driven by our heartfelt dedication, we believe that everyone deserves the best care and the best experience. As we look to the future, our vision remains clear: to grow alongside our communities. This vision is anchored in our commitment to put people first—pushing boundaries and embracing the latest medical advancements while ensuring we meet individuals where they are in life. Every innovation, treatment technique, and interaction is centered on our desire to provide the leading-edge care that patients expect and deserve.