Harm Reduction Project Lead

About the job

Harm Reduction Project Lead

The Vuntut Gwitchin Government (VGG) is seeking a Harm Reduction Project Lead to drive forward important harm reduction and wellness initiatives. This is a 1-year term position with a possibility of extension.

The right candidate is located in the Yukon and is able to work remotely with some travel to Whitehorse and Old Crow.

Main Objectives:

1. Develop a VGG Harm Reduction Policy in consultation with VGFN Citizens.
2. Create a Harm Reduction Strategy that will guide the implementation of low-barrier supports for VGFN Citizens.
3. Develop a VGG Wellness Plan for the community of Old Crow that will include healing pathways and preventative strategies.

Responsibilities:

• Reports to the VGG Intergovernmental Relations team in Whitehorse and coordinates deliverables with other related policy and legislative initiatives.
• Ensures that all deliverables align with Gwich’in values and are completed on schedule.
• Works with Directors to ensure VGG programs, policies and services are aligned with deliverables.
• Works with senior officials and government leadership to advocate for resources to support the implementation of the deliverables.
• Works with other departments to support the implementation of culturally appropriate low-barrier supports and health care services for VGFN Citizens.

Essential Qualifications and Preferred Experience:

• Respectful of First Nations values, cultural traditions, ways of knowing and rights and experience working with Indigenous peoples and First Nations, preferably in rural communities or the North.
• Specialisation or demonstrated knowledge of harm reduction, drug and alcohol policy, substance use, trauma-informed care and the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples.
• Experience leading policy research, analysis and development and managing strategic initiatives with a health or social focus.
• Experience facilitating community engagement sessions and integrating feedback into policy work.
• Ability to write funding proposals, project reports and coordinate with other levels of governments to meet funding requirements.
• Educational background in harm reduction, mental wellness, public health or Indigenous studies or governance.
• Experience developing community strategies, policies or plans for an Indigenous Nation, community or organisation.
• A combination of relevant professional and educational experience will be considered.

Suitability:

• Works independently and in multi-disciplinary teams with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to travel frequently to Whitehorse and Old Crow.
• Highly-organised and manages multiple projects.
• Results-driven with strong attention to detail.
• Develops and maintains meaningful relationships.
• Strong academic writer and critical thinker.
• Empathetic leader.
• Ability to manage a small team and provide mentorship.
• Adaptable and able to quickly switch gears and follow changing direction.

Closing Date: April 5, 2022 or until filled

Please submit a cover letter and resume (one document) to:

Human Resources Department

Vuntut Gwitchin Government

Email: jobs [at] vgfn [dot] net