Project Executive, Early Years Transformation

About Us

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development is leading the transformation of the early years and public education system in Nova Scotia. We are doing this by designing an innovative curriculum, facilitating excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring an inclusive education experience, and working closely with our partners in education. This department is a perfect fit for those that want to be part of the future of early learning and child care and public education in the province by supporting children, students and families with a strong foundation for success in a progressive and responsive policy environment.

We’re looking for a Project Executive to join our team as a key influencer and strategic advisor, whose expertise will define the direction of multi-function, cross-departmental projects. You will lead the transformation of various publicly delivered programs and services, funding models, workforce development initiatives, and information technology solutions. You will play an instrumental role in crafting and executing major initiatives, driving the future system of high quality, inclusive, affordable and accessible early learning and child care in Nova Scotia.

About Our Opportunity

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for driving transformative change?

We’re looking for a Project Executive to join our team as a key influencer and strategic advisor, whose expertise will define the direction of multi-function, cross-departmental projects. We’re looking for a Project Executive to join our team as a key influencer and strategic advisor, whose expertise will define the direction of multi-function, cross-departmental projects. You will lead the transformation of various publicly delivered programs and services, funding models, workforce development initiatives, and information technology solutions. You will play an instrumental role in crafting and executing major initiatives, driving the future system of high quality, inclusive, affordable and accessible early learning and child care in Nova Scotia.

If you thrive in a fast-paced and collaborative environment and have a track record of delivering on systems-level transformation initiatives, we want to hear from you! 

Primary Accountabilities

As Project Executive, you’ll provide strategic advice and manage the interests of the department in relation to transformation of Nova Scotia’s early learning and child care system under the Canada-Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. You will contribute to a collaborative and innovative environment that has far-reaching impacts and will be accountable for:

• Leading the design of complex, multi-functional transformation initiatives, including developing and executing project management strategies, policies, and long-term planning approaches related to projects within your portfolio.
• Leading the development, implementation and integration of policy, planning and strategic initiatives, ensuring sound research, analysis and advice is provided and shared to inform decision making. 
• Developing and maintaining formal partnerships and collaborative relationships with colleagues and key partners within all three levels of government and across a broad range of early learning and child care providers and partners to understand long-term strategic challenges and providing integrated long-term solutions and strategies to support execution.
• Ensuring the effective management of human and financial resources by setting and evaluating staff performance targets, promoting diversity and a healthy workplace, demonstrating leadership competencies, respecting corporate human resources practices, promoting teamwork and individual development, maintaining internal communications, monitoring expenditures while adhering to procurement guidelines.

Qualifications and Experience

As the Project Executive, you have exceptional qualifications to lead transformative change, shape strategies, and contribute to a collaborative, innovative environment.

You possess a relevant undergraduate university degree in an area relevant to the position. Your degree is accompanied by senior leadership experience. You have project management experience and training. An acceptable combination of training and experience may be considered.

You have confidence in your knowledge, professional judgement, and ability to problem-solve complex issues in a collaborative and responsive manner, in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.

You possess exceptional interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to establish genuine and collaborative relationships with colleagues both within the organization and externally.

You have proficiency in project management tools, software, and methodologies for effective planning, execution and monitoring to inform strategic decisions and track project performance. You have experience with budgeting, cost management, and financial analysis to ensure alignment of resources and goals.

You exercise sound judgement under pressure. You are organized and flexible, with the ability to multi-task and manage resources. Your excellent speaking and writing skills allow you to communicate information through various succinct methods, accurately and efficiently.

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using one or more of the following tools: oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

LEADS

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. LEADS Domains includes Leads Self, Engage Others, Achieve Results, Develop Coalitions and Systems Transformation.

Please follow LEADS (novascotia.ca) for more information. 

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of related training and experience may be acceptable in place of education requirements. 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.

Additional Information

Competition may be used to fill future vacancies, including permanent and term opportunities that may arise.

What We Offer

• Work-Life Balance: Maintain a healthy work-life balance with a 35-hour work week
• Secure Your Future: Take advantage of our defined benefits pension plan for a stable retirement
• Generous Time Off: Enjoy all national/civic holidays, 18 sick days, and family leave provisions
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Accommodate your needs with various options for flexibility
• Employee and Family Support: Access our Employee and Family Assistance Programs for resources and guidance
• Support in Times of Need: Receive short- and long-term disability assistance when required
• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Experience the power of collaboration as you engage with various government departments. Unlock a world of knowledge, expertise, and connections, contributing to the betterment of our province
• Lifelong Learning: Continuously expand your knowledge and skills through training and development programs
• Professional Advancement: Immerse yourself in the government landscape and discover endless opportunities for learning, advancement, and making a meaningful impact