Program Specialist Supportive Housing & Homelessness Full-time Job

Reporting to the assigned supervisor, the Program Specialist, Supportive Housing & Homelessness Programs oversees an assigned portfolio of Supportive Housing and/or Homelessness Programs and is responsible for ensuring the effective and consistent delivery of programs regionally and across the province. He/She/They oversees the execution of program agreements, provides guidance and operational input on the development of new programs, assesses regional and provincial requirements, as well as recommends strategies to best meet the needs of vulnerable individuals and ensure the success of programs. The position is the key relationship manager for the assigned portfolio of programming and serves as a point of contact in managing a variety of issues relating to the delivery of these programs. 

 

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The successful candidate will have the following:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, social services, public administration or other relevant field.
• Extensive experience in senior level positions within non-profit society management or delivery of social services and community-based programs. 
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable to the employer.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge and understanding of the philosophies, principles and practices associated with the delivery of government social and regulatory programs
• Considerable knowledge and understanding of non-profit society governance, management and operations. 
• Sound knowledge of homelessness and the intersection of trauma, mental health and substance use issues. Sound knowledge and understanding of the risks associated with programs that serve vulnerable populations 
• Proficient in the use of MS Office Applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong consultative and relationship building skills
• Ability to learn and understand BC Housing’s mandate, programs and policies in delivering social housing and services to vulnerable populations
• Ability to negotiate budgets, contracts, mediate disputes and resolve conflicts
• Ability to provide general management expertise in the successful operation of programs for vulnerable individuals 
• Ability to build successful partnerships, both externally and internally, and work together to deliver consistency in programs across the province
• Ability to provide advice and assistance regarding financial budgeting and contract management practices, including the ability to assess budget and financial statements 
• Ability to summarize and explain complex program information and funding requirements
• Ability to build dialogue and consensus with multiple stakeholders, often with conflicting agendas
• Ability to display tact and diplomacy in dealing with a broad range of professions and community stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple issues and projects, coordinate with others, keep senior management apprised of major issues and adapt to changing priorities
• Ability to strategize, apply creative thinking and build on existing and potential strengths in working towards solutions that support the long-term sustainability of the sector 
• Ability to travel on Commission business and work evenings and weekends as required. 
• Ability to arrange suitable transportation to various sites.
• Criminal Record Check is required.

BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation that develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidized housing options for those most in need across the province to address critical gaps across the housing continuum ranging from emergency shelter through to rent assistance in the private market and affordable home ownership. Share in the rewards of working with an organization that offers challenging work and competitive compensation and supports the growth and development of its people.
Our mission is to provide access to safe, quality, accessible, and affordable housing options. We do this to promote strong, inclusive communities where people can thrive.
BC Housing offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. But a job is more than a pay cheque. We also offer our staff the opportunity to work together to make a difference. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing theyve helped provide safe, affordable housing for British Columbians. And while theyre here, employees can take advantage of many opportunities:
In-house training, and training at other institutions, for courses related to employees current positions or to prepare them for advancement within BC Housing.
Wellness programs including physical fitness, programs to help employees quit smoking, free flu shots, mental health resources, and lunch-and-learn lectures and seminars.
Recognition programs including long-term service awards, idea recognition and outstanding performance awards.
Livegreen incentives include an employee transit pass program, and other initiatives that encourage alternative, sustainable transportation (even a bike purchase program!).
An active Social Club that organizes special events like seasonal parties and arranges group discounts to other events.
Participation in community and charitable events.