Manager - Health Services Navigation

The Government of Nova Scotia • Halifax, NS

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Health and Wellness offers opportunities to grow and advance in a dynamic sector that touches the lives of all Nova Scotians. Along with our partners, including the Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK Health Centre, we’re committed to continually improving our health care system. With a focus on continual improvements within the Health System, the department is thinking differently about how to plan, fund, legislate and monitor to improve access and service delivery. DHW is responsible for setting standards, developing policies, funding, and regulatory oversight for health services navigation, including the Centralized Navigation/811 service and Virtual Care. Reporting to the Director, Emergency Care and Health System Navigation, the Manager, Health Services Navigation is responsible for the management, coordination, and continuous improvement of assigned Health System Navigation programs—primarily the expanding Centralized Navigation / 811 Service and related initiatives such as Virtual Care. The Manager will provide leadership, subject matter expertise, oversee program delivery and quality improvement processes, support program planning, and ensure services are delivered in alignment with departmental policies, applicable legislation, contracts, and operational standards. The Manager builds and maintains strong working relationships with program operators, partners, and internal stakeholders to support effective service delivery. This role contributes to departmental planning by providing evidence informed analysis, operational insights, and recommendations.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study and several years progressive management experience. An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated experience working in the health system, provincial government or related field.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative working relationships with internal and external partners with very strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to understand data and evidence and lead strategy and planning.
• Experience in contract management and budgeting.
• Strong computer skills, including competency in Microsoft Office products.
• Superior organizational and time management skills with demonstrated decisiveness, ability to manage competing priorities with tight and conflicting deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• A Master's degree is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day to day implementation, coordination, and monitoring of the Centralized Navigation / 811 Service and related navigation support programs.
• Develops and maintains knowledge of current best practices and evidence and applies this to support program and strategic planning.
• Support the development and application of quality management processes related to assigned programs.
• Identify emerging risks or service gaps and recommend mitigation strategies within defined authority.
• Maintain effective working relationships with contracted operators, DHW branches, NSHA/IWK teams, and other health and social system partners.
• Support cross government and cross sector collaboration by contributing program expertise and operational insight.
• Interpret and apply relevant legislation, regulations, and departmental policies in the context of daily program operations.
• Provide input into policy, contract, or program changes.
• Support contract monitoring activities, including reviewing deliverables and participating in performance discussions with vendors.
• Track program expenditures, monitor variances, and prepare financial information for senior leadership.
• Support annual budget planning by providing operational data and justifications.
• Assist with procurement activities.
• Prepare clear, evidence informed operational reports, briefing materials, business cases, and presentations.
• Conduct jurisdictional scans, literature reviews, and data analysis related to program operations and provide recommendations.
• Provide functional guidance, mentorship, and coaching to indirect reports, project staff, consultants, or students supporting program activities.
• Contribute to effective teamwork and foster a positive and inclusive workplace.

Benefits

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan
• Health
• Dental
• Life Insurance
• General illness
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Vacation
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs
• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths.
• A Dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are our focus.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager