Mental Wellness & Addictions Program Manager

About the Role

The Mental Wellness and Addictions Program Manager oversees the operational delivery of mental wellness and addiction services for the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN) and supports patients through clinical counselling. It further implements plans and systems to protect the wellbeing of citizens, supports improvement initiatives, and identifies and promotes best practices. Reporting to the Health, Social & Recreation Director, some of the responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to;

• Manages the day-to-day operations and department staff. Organizes team activities, communicates work goals, develops plans to accomplish goals, evaluates progress, and distributes information. 
• Develops, manages and delivers tangible mental wellness and addictions services and programming to Old Crow and Whitehorse. 
• Develops work plans and harm reduction strategies aligned to the needs of citizens and implements standards and procedures to support the administration to deliver these programs effectively.  
• Provides clinical counselling services to individuals and families. Assesses, diagnoses, develops treatment plans and/or strategies.  
• In collaboration with the Director, evaluates services by tracking data such as access, enrolment, and other metrics. 
• Assists the Director to develop and manage financial resources including annual budget and expenditures, contracts, variance reports, and the administration and financial reporting of programs.
• Communicates mental wellness and addiction service plans and initiatives to citizens. Leads or supports the Director to conduct regular sessions and meetings with the public to communicate information and consult. Responds to citizen concerns as they arise.
• Ensures VGG’s mental wellness and addiction interests and concerns are expressed by participating on joint initiatives.  
• Responds to crisis situations of citizens and consults with appropriate parties to identify and achieve solutions.

What We Offer

• Very competitive salary that is commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience.
• Working Hours: 80 hours biweekly.
• 4% Northern Community Remoteness Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.
• 4% Northern Travel Allowance for employees residing in Old Crow full-time.
• 4 weeks’ vacation to start plus two weeks paid time off over the Christmas season. 
• A very healthy extended benefits package.
• 12 days management Leave per year
• 10 days sick pay per year.
• 10 days paid special/personal leave per year.
• A matched pension plan.
• Subsidized Housing may be available.
• Relocation Allowance.

What You Bring:

• A professional designation in the counselling field.
• Considerable experience delivering mental wellness and addiction services and programs; in an indigenous community is an asset.
• Experience in a management position with responsibilities related to leading and managing a team, program planning, evaluation, and financial management.
• Experience building partnerships with community resources and external contacts to promote the wellbeing of families and citizens.

Supporting you along the way

We believe that a rewarding career is not only good for our employees, but it also leads to better outcomes for our clients, workplace and the community. That’s why we are committed to providing you with a competitive salary, health benefits, and a retirement plan. Beyond compensation, you will have the opportunity to make meaningful connections and work on initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to: jobs@vgfn.ca

In accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA, Section 16(1)), hiring preference will be given to Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation citizens. Following this, preference will be extended  to Indigenous candidates, and then to those with experience and knowledge First Nations traditional customs and practices.

While we appreciate all applications, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.