Manager, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Indigenous Relations

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.

This position is responsible for leading the development, implementation and assessment of strategic Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility (IDEA) and Indigenous Relations activities and initiatives throughout the organization, ensuring alignment with the Inclusion Charter for York Region, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, Regional strategic plans, and compliance with governing legislation. Operating in the capacity of a change agent, this position works as a trusted partner to senior leaders in all departments, defining strategy and leading delivery efforts on IDEA policies and practices, raising awareness, promoting a culture of continued learning and development, as well as identifying challenges and recommending solutions related to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. This role is a champion for inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility, and is critical in establishing and maintaining strong relationships with key internal and external partners to create programs and policies that advance the Region’s commitment to building welcoming and inclusive communities where diversity is celebrated and where everyone can achieve their full potential.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Provides strategic leadership in the development and implementation of IDEA vision and strategy, ensuring alignment with corporate plans and compliance with governing legislation; leads all related activities and initiatives within the organization.
• Manages three distinct programs/units (Accessibility, DEI and Indigenous Relations), each with different yet interacting mandates; ensures reporting compliance on behalf of the Region, York Regional Police, and the Police Services Board.
• Monitors and evaluates current programs, develops KPIs and tracks metrics to measure and promote impact of strategies, reports on progress, identifies areas of opportunities for priority focus, and advises on actions to ensure continued achievement of objectives and goals.
• Applies change management process and tools to drive inclusive behaviours and practices by embedding awareness and accountability into organization-wide initiatives.
• Manages the continuous improvement of innovative IDEA programs, ensuring polices/programs remain responsive, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing changes.
• Manages the planning and coordination of organization-wide events and programs related to IDEA initiatives and various dates/events of significance, in collaboration with Corporate Communications and Wellness teams.
• Provides consultation, guidance and expertise to leaders in matters related to IDEA.
• Establishes and maintains strong relationships with key partners to execute IDEA strategies and plans, lead change management initiatives, and develop communications plans aimed at creating a community that values, respects and embraces diversity.
• Builds and maintains an external network of diverse contacts, including an active engagement with First Nations, industry leaders, other municipalities, Provincial partners, and residents; supports sharing of methodologies and best practices, and garners support for ideas and actions where required.
• Supports and builds on an inclusive culture through authentic communications and training, facilitating conversations while understanding multiple perspectives.
• Provides leadership to the formation, development and/or management of committees, working groups, forums, etc, including committees of Regional Council.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• Successful completion of a University Degree in Human Resources, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or a related discipline or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum five years (5) experience in the field of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility and demonstrated two (2) years of direct supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience championing, leading and executing initiatives to drive change across an organization.
• Experience in program development and managing projects involving inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility initiatives.
• Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP) designation, or Certified Human Resources Leader designation considered an asset.
• Informed and active leadership to confront bias and systemic barriers and comply with or build inclusive practices in business processes, recruitment practices, team management, etc. to ensure inclusive and equitable workplace.
• Strong business acumen and excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build successful and effective relationships with a range of internal and external partners.
• Knowledge of the United Nations Declarations on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action.
• Political and cultural acuity, consultation, problem solving, mediation, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to interpret a variety of legislation, analyze issues and make timely decisions in accordance with appropriate legislation.