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, an anonymous civil servant explains why it’s important to follow your curiosity in their role as Senior Policy Advisor in the Ministry of Health.

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

I am a Senior Policy Advisor at the Ministry of Health and my files included the Dementia Strategy in the community and Health Care Workforce Development. On a standard day, I respond to various requests for materials on my files that may come from the Minister or Deputy Minister office, I respond to partner emails, and I continue to stay versed on what is happening on my files via ongoing research and monitoring. I also develop strategic and long-term work on my files and collaborate on the files of my colleagues in my unit.

What did you do before taking up this role?

Previous to this role I held other jobs within government, one being a Senior Advisor on the COVID-19 Long-Term Care Commission that put out a 300-page report regarding the tragedy that happened in Ontario Long-Term Care homes. Previous to government I actually worked in the media and arts sector at our public broadcaster and at large arts festivals. The first policy shop I worked on in government was actually culture and arts policy.

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

You need to be self-motivated, a good collaborator, a strong writer and a critical thinker. It can be a very creative role but it is important to always be open to learning and seeing things from a different point of view.

What is your favourite part of your job?

The favourite part of my job is feeling that I am part of something larger than myself. I am contributing to bettering the health care system during a pandemic for some of our most frail population, the elderly with cognitive decline, this is incredibly important work and I am honoured to be part of it.

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

I would say always follow your curiosity, always be open to learning and growing. It's not an easy field and it's important to find the work and the people you feel aligned with.

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