Job Description
Michael Smith Health Research BCMichael Smith Health Research BC, funded by the Government of British Columbia, is BC’s health research agency. We strengthen the province’s health research system by supporting the people, institutions and activities that generate and use research-based knowledge to promote, restore and maintain the health of British Columbians. Our ambition is to inspire and connect curious, creative and passionate minds to drive discovery and innovation in health research. And we’re driven by the belief that health-related decision making should be informed by high quality research produced in an equitable, diverse and inclusive research system.We are a team of dedicated professionals who care deeply about each other and our work. We believe in embracing diversity as a strength and core value, creating spaces that are inclusive of all peoples, and are grounded in our ongoing commitment to reconciliation and respect for Indigenous self-determination. We value and support a diverse workforce, reflective of different backgrounds, skillsets, perspectives and life experiences.Our benefits package includes a pension plan, generous dental and health insurance and a wellness allowance; our professional development policy supports learning and growth.We have a hybrid work model. When you are in the office, our beautiful space offers views of False Creek, an outdoor patio (think summer BBQs!) and a fitness centre, and it’s walking distance to restaurants and other amenities. Our social committee, Team Good Times, organizes events throughout the year.If you are looking for meaningful work in a supportive environment, and you are inspired by making a difference in BC’s exceptional health research community, read on to learn more.Position Summary:Reporting to the Vice President, External Relations (VP ER) the Portfolio Director is a new position overseeing a diverse but connected portfolio of programs with a common focus on building and strengthening relationships. The Portfolio Director will support and lead their teams to develop a consistent, coherent, all-of-organization approach to identifying and engaging with the people, groups and organizations fundamental to our work of strengthening BC’s health research system. Building and sustaining a compelling identity is the common purpose that cuts across all activity. This role will be a member of the directors’ table, a critical part of the organization’s leadership structure.Health Research BC takes a team-based approach to achieving success. The Portfolio Director provides leadership and guidance to internal and external communications, partnerships, government relations, and external relations. Working closely with the VP ER, the role will provide an organizational lens to all work that has, as a primary audience, external parties. This role will see the big picture, ensuring all external relations teams are aligned with organizational strategy.The Portfolio Director will be the narrative and identity champion. The role will focus on building coherent outreach through aligning and empowering Health Research BC teams. The successful candidate will bring practiced experience to planning, budgeting, message development, strategy translation, and mentoring.Key Responsibilities:Accountable for overall operational leadership of internal and external communications, partnerships, and external relations, including oversight and management of three direct reports.Supports integrated external relations (inclusive of government relations) that: connects Health Research BC’s strategy directions; determines priority regional, provincial, and national audiences; analyzes existing relationships and future opportunities; and develops measurable objectives.Supports the Director, Partnerships to implement a partnership plan that seeks and leverages key initiatives with provincial, national, and international partners.Early focus will be required in two areas: lead the communications team to deliver solutions on our portfolios of work: and strengthen and create consistency of the organization’s identity.Approves all annual operational plans and budgets that have been collaboratively developed with portfolio leads.Participates as a member of the directors’ table. Builds relationships with and supports directors and others to communicate priorities through their work and achieves coherence in our identity and initiatives.Serves on committees and working groups as appropriate.Serves as a role model and mentor for staff, contributing to the development of an inclusive culture where all staff are engaged, valued, and supported.Participates in strategic planning as well as evaluating progress on strategy directions and embedding learning into all programs and activities.Responsible for proactivity, critical thinking, and excellence.Ensures equity, diversity and inclusion and Indigenous reconciliation and self-determination commitments are embedded in our work.Candidate Requirements:Master’s degree in related health research, public policy, or strategic communications discipline.Minimum 10 plus years’ experience with at least five years in a leadership role across multiple external and internal relations portfolios.Excellent written and verbal communications skills with a demonstrated ability to write in a variety of styles. Superior editing and proofreadingHealth research system knowledge, its intersection with the healthcare system, government, and the economy; keen understanding of all interested parties and dynamics within these systems. Thorough knowledge of BC health research system an asset.Demonstrated experience in equity, diversity and inclusion and Indigenous reconciliation and Indigenous cultural safety.Demonstrated ability to set priorities, clearly define directions, delegate responsibility, assure accountability, and allocate resources to ensure impact.Ability to exercise tact and discretion when handling sensitive and/or confidential matters.Exhibit intellectual curiosity, including the ability to listen to and learn from multiple voices.Superior team-building and coaching skills; ability to lead at a high level while respecting the expertise and responsibilities of direct reports and other colleagues.How to ApplyIf this sounds like you and you would like to play a role in maximizing the impact of health research in BC, please submit your resume and cover letter online athealthresearchbc.ca/about/careers/. We thank everyone for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.