Career story: policy analyst, Ontario Works

What does a day in your shoes feel like? And what are the key skills that can make or break a career in your field?

We’ve asked a diverse group of Apolitical members to share their career story with us and the tips they have for junior public servants. In this article, Emmanuel Leonard explains why it’s important to dream big in their role as a policy analyst.

What is your current role and how do you spend your time on a standard day?

Currently, I am a Policy Analyst with the City of Greater Sudbury - Ontario Works, Community Development Department.

On a standard day, I am responsible for leading consultations to help business partner teams identify capacity needs. In this role, I am responsible for conducting research, leading cross-jurisdictional discussions, determining legislative tie-ins and implications for collective bargaining agreements, and drawing evidence-based recommendations to support policy development and updates. I also develop and review diverse new and old Local Business Practices (policies) for the Children and Social Service department of the City of Greater Sudbury.

In summary, on a daily basis, I assist in examining the efficacy of existing policies and laying out the groundwork for new programs and legislation to meet objectives and goals, reviewing and amending policy drafts, and proposing suggestions to improve the effects of existing policies.

What did you do before taking up this role?

Before taking up my current position, I worked as Administrative Staff with the Alberta Ministry of Community and Social Services and I also interned as a Support Policy Analyst (Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy Executive Internship Program) at the Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education and Ministry of Social Services.

In your opinion, what are the most important skills someone needs to excel in your field?

Among many others, below are some of the valuable skills to excel as a Policy Analyst:

• Working knowledge of the legal aspects affecting policies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Good interpersonal and social skills
• Exceptional team player with a strong ability to contribute positively to a team environment
• Able to sit in front of a computer screen for long hours at a time
• Excellent understanding of the relevant industry and market conditions
• High organizational and time-management skills

What is your favourite part of your job?

The favourite part of my job is when my work impacts the community positively. Policy Analysts work to influence political and social decisions and my daily work activities involve collecting and compiling data/information, analyzing data/information and effects, and recommending solutions. Identifying causes and solutions are difficult, so it is exciting when my recommendations are approved and used, and they positively impact the community.

What advice would you give to new public servants who are interested in a career in your field?

Learn all you can about your city - its history, its operations, its financing. Do your homework. Know your city ordinances. Learn about your organizational culture, short-term and long-term strategic plans.

It is okay to dream big - do not lose sight of the call to public service, no matter how tough things get. Dream, plan, evaluate, process, and make bold steps.

Embrace the chaos and complexities - Government is complex, involving intricate decision-making processes and trade-offs, therefore, acquaint yourself with legislation, legislative processes and understand public communications documents.

Don't be afraid to ask questions - it is one of the ways we learn.

Be kind - treat everyone with sympathy and respect, regardless of position, with kindness.

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(Iimage Credit: Unsplash)