Advocacy & Policy Advisor

Title: Advocacy & Policy Advisor
Location: Remote
Salary Range: $60,000 – $75,000 per annum, based on education and experience

Background
The National Aboriginal Council of Midwives’ (NACM) mission is to promote excellence in reproductive health care for First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. NACM advocates for the restoration of midwifery education, the provision of midwifery services, and choice of birthplace for all Indigenous communities consistent with the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
https://indigenousmidwifery.ca/

Job Purpose

• The Advocacy & Policy Advisor is responsible for the development and implementation of a values aligned advocacy strategy, policy, and stakeholder engagement plan to advance the policy priorities of NACM.
• The Advisor provides subject matter expertise to secure Federal funding for Indigenous midwifery and supports the development of evidence-based recommendations and strategic actions based on contextual, historical and practitioner knowledges.
• The Advocacy & Policy Advisor also plays a lead role in developing and communicating an Indigenous midwifery perspective within the context of emerging Federal priorities around anti-Indigenous racism in the health sector. More specifically, the role oversees the implementation of a midwifery action plan to address anti-Indigenous racism in health and education systems.
• This work is funded by Indigenous Services Canada and conducted in collaboration with a variety of stakeholders.
• The Advisor will report to the NACM Executive Director and take guidance and strategic direction from the NACM Core Leadership.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and support the implementation of an advocacy plan with a focus on two key areas: 1. Federal funding strategy for Indigenous midwifery 2. Anti-Indigenous racism in health care.
• Represent NACM at various external stakeholder meetings and federal tables to support and advance policy priorities.
• Collaborate with government relations consultants to execute advocacy plan.
• Develop and update clear, concise documentation such as policy briefs, fact sheets, position statements and reports. • Implement NACM’s action plan to address anti-Indigenous racism in health and education systems.
• Liaise with a variety of key stakeholders including members, donors, government stakeholders and national Indigenous organizations.

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skill Requirements

• University/post-secondary degree in public health policy, Indigenous studies, or other relevant discipline. A combination of education and experience will be considered.
• 3+ years’ experience working with Indigenous organizations, in public health, health communications, or related position.
• Strong knowledge of cultural safety and ability to work closely with diverse Indigenous communities (First Nations, Metis, Inuit).
• Strong knowledge of social and political contexts that impact health policy and service delivery and more specifically Indigenous health.
• Knowledge of Indigenous midwifery and policy related to sexual, reproductive health and rights a strong asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and commitment to working collaboratively with diverse stakeholder groups, including staff, members, volunteers, donors, and other stakeholders.
• High degree of resourcefulness, flexibility, and adaptability.
• Highly organized, attention to detail and excellent follow-through required.
• Computer literacy, including effective working skills of MS Word, Excel and Outlook required.

Working Conditions

• 12-month contract, 35 hours per week (March 2023 to March 2024 with possibility of renewal)
• Work done from home office (remote)
• Travel is required to attend meetings in Ottawa or Montreal or to attend events in other locations across Canada.

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How to Apply:

Applications
NACM is an Indigenous led and governed organization. Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Non-Indigenous candidates must have a commitment to working within an anti-oppressive framework.

Please follow these instructions:

• Send your CV and a cover letter in one PDF document and ensure that your first and last names and the text “Advocacy & Policy Advisor” are included in the file name.
• Send your PDF by email with the subject “Advocacy & Policy Advisor” to [email protected]
• Deadline for applications is 5pm Eastern Time on February 26th, 2023.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Resumes received will be held confidential, shared with the selection committee only, and be used only for the purposes of selection for this position.