Overview
The Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Division at the City of Kitchener focuses on supporting the organization’s commitment to identifying and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion in the workplace and through programs and services offered to the community. Reporting to the Director, Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the Advisor, Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will play a pivotal role supporting the organization’s strategic priorities that lead to meaningful action towards reconciliation and embedding principles of equity and inclusion.
Responsibilities
- Support the organization in socializing reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion principles through approved and established frameworks, such as the City’s F.A.I.R. Framework, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the ISO 30415 Diversity and Inclusion Service Management.
- Provide guidance on data collection, analysis, interpretation and evidence-informed decision-making as it relates to reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives across the organization such as the Employee Culture Survey and the Psychological Safety Strategy.
- Supports the operationalization of the Division's strategic priorities and workplan through collaboration, partnership, guidance and advice to the Division, leadership, and staff.
- Support learning and development opportunities related to enhancing organizational capacity on topics related to reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion.
- Support the Division's visibility to internal and external parties through various tactics including an increased digital presence, communications and marketing support, storytelling, planning internal events, attending community events and participating in regional working groups.
- Prepare reports, presentations and communications for Council, Corporate Leadership, and project teams.
- Participate in and provide support and guidance to internal working groups and advisory committees as required.
- Work closely with HR on confidential matters related to discrimination, racism, hate and other issues related to a respectful workplace culture.
- Provide advice and guidance to Senior Leaders and the Office of Mayor and Members of Council on responses and actions to community related matters that impact equity-denied communities.
- Monitor and stay apprised of industry best practices, trends, policies, practices, technology and information; including legislation, regulations and directives as these apply to reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- This is a new position under review
Education
- 3 year post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant professional discipline (equity studies, human rights, sociology, social work)
Experience
- 2-4 years relevant work experience supporting reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives within large complex organizations
- Lived experience as a person who can acknowledge and speak to the social, political, cultural, spiritual, health and economic history, challenges, and opportunities relevant to Black people, Indigenous people, other racialized people, persons with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and newcomers and to the impacts of systemic racism and oppression.
- Proven experience in supporting the implementation of reconciliation, equity, diversity and Inclusion strategic priorities and frameworks
- Experience in project management, program support, data analysis and program evaluation.
- Experience in municipal government/public sector preferred.
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends
- Reliable with a good attitude and employment record.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- In-depth knowledge of reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion principles, best practices and legal requirements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage, influence, and provide tangible support; demonstrated ability to develop relationships with internal and external parties to support organizational objectives.
- Knowledge and understanding of various related legislation including the Ontario Human Rights Code, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report of Canada (TRC), Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), etc., is an asset
