The Position

Under the direction of the Community Member Services Division Manager, the Social Development Manager will assist in the planning, organization, development, publicity and evaluation of the Social Development programs in accordance with the Divisional Manager’s directions, which will include Child and Family Support Services, Supportive Family Housing, Income Assistance, Food Security, Mental Health, Complex Care and Substance Use Prevention/Harm Reduction.

This position will also perform supervisory, administrative and professional duties in the shíshálh Nation (“Nation”) operation. You will also work collaboratively with the Health and Wellness Managers and Provide Support to their teams as needed.

The Candidate

Provide leadership to improve performance and enhance the quality of the work environment in the Social Development Department.

• Utilize knowledge and abilities in leadership based on a shared vision when planning and implementing programs and policies.
• Facilitate and employ a team approach, valuing team members, encouraging full participation and showing staff appreciation. Seek feedback from the team and provide feedback as needed.
• Build capacity within the department.
• Work with the team to collectively set objectives and change processes in areas requiring improvement.
• Guide and manage change consistent with the vision and values of the Health Department.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the shíshálh culture and history and understand how this impacts communication patterns, attitudes and approaches to health issues.

Establish and maintain effective relationships.

• Collaborate with administration, health care professionals, paraprofessionals and clerical staff to deliver effective Social Service.
• Use skills to create and sustain partnerships.
• Advocate for healthy Social Development policy and services that promote, protect and enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
• Motivate and mobilize staff towards Social Development Department goals.
• Demonstrate effective public relations and communication skills while seeking opportunities to participate in joint education and program planning processes.

Effectively recruit and retain qualified staff.

• Under the direction of the Division Manager, provide effective supervision to staff. Understand the roles and functions of establishing standards, monitoring people and processes to maintain standards, assisting staff to reflect on practice and work performance, and providing guidance.
• Mentor and coach staff to promote professional development.
• Identify human resources needs to maintain a safe, therapeutic environment.
• Manage the recruitment, selection, performance review (including discipline) and staff development.
• Promote a healthy work environment. Understand and follow all applicable laws, regulations, and other standards to establish and maintain a safe work environment, including the Labour Standards Code and the Occupational Health & Safety legislation.

Assist with preparing financial statements, budgets, financial reports, special analysis and information reports.

• Ensure efficient and effective financial management of health programs and services.
• Assist with developing a budget within forecasted revenues using a structured budget preparation process.
• Able to carry out budget monitoring and review processes.
• Use the computer to manage information and financial data and to analyze and measure performance.

Plan, implement and evaluate policies and programs based on evidence and relevance to community health needs and plans.

• Provide leadership in program development, implementation and evaluation, maximizing available resources based on plans.
• Collect, assess, analyze and apply information, including data, facts, concepts and theories, using them to manage both projects and systems.
• Consult and collaborate with other healthcare professional team members to ensure community Social programs are appropriate and directed towards community needs.
• Collaborate with CMS Division staff to address disaster planning and emergency preparedness.

Manage social programs and service delivery.

• Under the direction of the Division Manager, manage the day-to-day operations of the Social Development Department. Ensure staff are working within their scope of practice, role and responsibilities.
• Under the direction and support of the Division Manager, prepare a Community Health Plan based on community needs, priorities and care program activities.
• Support community development, ownership, consultation, empowerment, capacity building, and respect in relation to health care delivery.
• Ensure that health and safety rules are respected. Identify dangers and take preventative measures and/or make recommendations to the Division Manager.

Note: Perform other duties within the scope of the position as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Health or Social Science. A Master’s Degree in Health is an asset.
• 3-5 years of relevant work experience managing programs and services, including managing staff and budgets in a related field.
• A combination of education, training, and experience equivalent to the above will be considered.
• Knowledge and experience with current issues and programs related to First Nations and wellness programs.
• Must have a demonstrable ability to lead and motivate staff to plan and organize work activities.
• Knowledge of the budgeting and reporting requirements is required.
• Strong computer skills with Windows and Microsoft Suite proficiency and a willingness to learn new software programs.
• Experience working with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) or Case Management software is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective and efficient working relationships with clients, their families, management, staff and external stakeholders.
• Must have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and expeditiously under tight timeframes and deadlines.
• Project Management experience is an asset.
• Strict confidentiality requirements must be respectful of the needs and privacy requirements of the clients and maintain confidentiality regarding clients.
• Current BC Driver’s License and access to a personal vehicle.
• Acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.
• Knowledge of shíshálh culture and community members is an asset.