Executive Director, Strategic Advisory & Support Services (SASS)

About Us

The Public Service Commission (PSC) is a modern client-centric human resources organization within the Nova Scotia Public Service supporting government departments, agencies and employees as they deliver programs and services to Nova Scotians. We are committed to be the change for a more engaged and inclusive public service. Our work culture is one of collaboration, flexibility, partnership and continuous improvement.

The PSC is responsible for determining the human-resource management policies, programs, standards and procedures necessary for the public service; and provides direction, advice and assistance regarding implementation. It is committed to developing a responsive HR system and strives to improve client experience.

Some of our exciting initiatives include:
 

• Supporting employee well-being, resilience, and engagement
• Supporting welcoming and inclusive workplace cultures
• Advancing the capacity of the Province of Nova Scotia to meet the current and future needs of Nova Scotians through a diverse workforce with the necessary talents, experience, and skills; and,
• Developing client-focused, person-centred approaches to HR service delivery.

For more information on the Public Service Commission, please visit the following link: https://beta.novascotia.ca/government/public-service-commission

About Our Opportunity

The Executive Director, Strategic Advisory & Support Services (SASS) provides strategic direction and advice to a division of the Public Service Commission with diverse responsibilities impacting all departments and their employees including Employee Relations, Workplace Resolution, Absence Management, Benefits and Workplace Health & Safety. This division is responsible for all collective bargaining, contract administration and group insurance programs for the 11,000+ employees of government.

Primary Accountabilities

The SASS Division leads a variety of employee related programs and services that support current and former provincial government employees. The Executive Director, through consultation and collaboration contributes to the provincial bargaining strategy and leads employee relations for direct provincial government employees. The position is also responsible for overseeing the financial management, administration and advisory services of the Province’s Benefits Plans, for a membership which includes employees, retirees and their families. The position also provides leadership, advice and support on absence management, return to work and duty to accommodate matters. The Executive Director oversees the development and administration of the corporate Respectful Workplace Policy and provides strategic direction and oversight to the Workplace Health and Safety unit which provides occupational health and safety advice to all government departments, agencies and commissions.

Qualifications and Experience

You are a dynamic and progressive leader who has a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related discipline (e.g., public administration, law, industrial relations, business/commerce), coupled with several years of progressive related work experience including experience at the senior leadership level.

In addition to the above:
 

• You have a proven track record in management and possess an aptitude for detail and accuracy, demonstrate exceptional organizational ability, and excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• You must be capable of condensing complex issues into understandable, plain-language discussions and briefings including recommended directions and options. You should have several years of experience with employee relations in a unionized environment and in planning, developing, implementing and monitoring programs.
• With a proven track record in a large, complex public sector organization, you will be strategic and innovative in your thinking with an understanding of public sector priorities and reporting requirements.
• You can deliver high level, strategic advice and make decisions in relation to areas of responsibility. Demonstrated experience working with strategic partners such as other provincial departments; other municipal, provincial and federal governments; industry; external interest holders including Unions/Associations; and the general public.
• You must be successful in building networks, able to display strong communication and interpersonal skills, and be able to motivate high performing teams.
• The Government of Nova Scotia has adopted the LEADS Leadership Framework. During the interview, candidates will be expected to express how they have demonstrated the key behaviours and capabilities required to effectively lead in a caring and inclusive environment.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

What We Offer

• Career development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career
• Engaging workplace: our employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in, we have forward-thinking policies and strategies
• Countless career paths
• Department specific flexible working schedules