Lead, Clinical Programs - Ontario Health, Toronto

The opportunity

At Ontario Health, we are committed to developing a strong organizational culture that connects and inspires all team members across the province. Our vision is that together, we will be a leader in health and wellness for all, connecting the health system to drive improved and equitable health outcomes, experiences, and value. How we work together is reflected through our five values: integrity, inspiration, tenacity, humility, and care.

The Indigenous Health Unit (IHU) builds respectful, trusted relationships with First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and urban Indigenous (FNIMUI) leadership, organizations, and communities. Reporting to the Manager, Cancer and Ontario Health Priorities, the Lead will connect Ontario Health portfolios, business units, and regions with governments, health service providers, agencies, and community partners to translate the FNIMUI Health Framework and Health Plan into coordinated action and measurable progress.

What you'll do

Key responsibilities within this role include building trusted partnerships, leading complex and high-impact work, bringing Indigenous health expertise, and communicating effectively to influence health-system planning.

• Lead engagement with internal and external partners, project teams, working groups, and committees involved in policy, program design, and health-system planning.
• Strengthen nuanced relationships across Ontario Health Regions, FNIMUI communities, government agencies, clinicians, providers, councils, networks, and professional associations.
• Participate in the Provincial Indigenous Leadership Network and guide regional Indigenous teams and leads in coordinating shared priorities.
• Support Ontario Health portfolios and business units in building capacity to lead Indigenous initiatives.
• Provide strategic leadership for cross-portfolio and regional projects, including Indigenous health equity obligations within Service Accountability Agreements.
• Manage an assigned portfolio from concept through implementation, including requirements, process redesign, procurement, system design, testing, risk, scope, and issue resolution.
• Develop analyses, briefing notes, reports, presentations, business cases, and options papers for complex operational and health-system issues.
• Support ongoing reporting to Ontario Health leadership on implementation of the FNIMUI Health Plan and ensure high-quality, timely deliverables.
• Embed Indigenous cultural values and perspectives in programs, policies, and implementation with and for FNIMUI peoples.
• Review provincial and regional Indigenous initiatives and provide strategic recommendations that reflect FNIMUI needs and relevant strategies.
• Advise Ontario Health portfolios and regions on implementing the FNIMUI Health Framework and Health Plan, including commitments and reporting.
• Coordinate with the Measure, Monitor, and Evaluate team to align projects with Indigenous data governance processes.
• Translate complex concepts into clear written, verbal, and visual materials for senior leaders, Indigenous communities, and health-system partners.
• Apply critical thinking and sound judgment to resolve issues, manage engagement risk, and protect trusted relationships.
• Uphold Indigenous data governance principles when communicating findings and know when to escalate sensitive issues.

Requirements

Candidates must meet specific education, experience, knowledge, and skill criteria to be successful in this position.

• Completion of a master's degree in a health-related field, or an acceptable combination of education, training, and experience.
• At least 3-5 years of experience successfully leading and managing healthcare projects and/or programs.
• Build effective relationships and collaborate productively in complex, high-volume, fast-paced environments, using strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills.
• Think strategically, exercise sound decision-making and problem-solving, and implement programs and initiatives effectively.
• Apply risk mitigation and sound judgment to protect Ontario Health's reputation.
• Work independently in a self-directed, goal-oriented manner with minimal supervision, supported by strong organization, attention to detail, and time-management skills.
• Conduct literature searches and synthesize findings into clear summaries and briefs.
• Strong understanding of the social determinants of health and health equity.
• Extensive knowledge of federal and provincial departments responsible for Indigenous issues and Ontario's provincial healthcare system.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis history, cultures, governance structures, and health and socio-economic needs in Ontario.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and people.
• Experience addressing Indigenous chronic disease issues would be an asset.

Why you'll love it here

At Ontario Health, your growth and well-being are supported and celebrated. Depending on your role, you may receive a range of comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities:

• Comprehensive health coverage from day one, with fully paid medical, dental, and vision benefits to support you and your family's health.
• Flexible healthcare or wellness spending accounts, plus an inclusive program to support your overall well-being.
• A premium defined benefit pension plan, ensuring long-term financial security.
• Competitive vacation entitlement that encourages time to rest and recharge.
• Three personal days and two float days annually, providing added flexibility to support work-life balance, in addition to vacation days.
• Ongoing learning and career development opportunities designed to help you grow, advance, and thrive in your profession.
• A collaborative, values-driven workplace where integrity, care, humility, inspiration, and tenacity shape everything we do.
• Opportunities to participate in Communities of Inclusion, fostering belonging, equity, and the sharing of diverse perspectives across our team.