Policy Analyst

Employment Category: Full-Time, Permanent

Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid)

Reports To: Director, Institutional Accountability/Senate Secretary

Application Requirement: Cover Letter

Primary Purpose

This newly created position will primarily support the growing demand for support in policy development and administration at University Canada West. The Policy Analyst provides research, analysis, and strategic support on institutional policies, higher education trends, and regulatory and legal frameworks affecting the university. This role supports data-informed decision-making by evaluating the impact of current and proposed policies on university operations, academic programs, and student outcomes.

Specific Responsibilities

The Policy Analyst is responsible for three broad areas of activity: supporting the policy development and administration activities in the University; acting as a subject matter expert in policy and procedures in the Institution; and providing leading support to the Policy Office (including oversight of the repositories, various communication channels and own evaluation efforts). The Analyst will, at various times, be responsible for the following as well as other related duties as assigned to support UCW's business objectives, mission, and purpose:

Policy Development and Administration

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on university policies, provincial/federal regulations, and trends in higher education.
• Use institutional and external datasets to support policy research, apply quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques, and develop visualizations to communicate findings effectively.
• Prepare clear and concise policy briefs, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with academic and administrative departments to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies and recommend improvements.
• Support strategic planning initiatives through policy evaluation and benchmarking with peer institutions.
• Assist in the development and implementation of new policies aligned with institutional goals.
• Assist departments in understanding and complying with policy and regulatory requirements, provide guidance on interpretation of policies, and contribute to training or outreach activities as needed.
• Participate in university committees and work groups as the subject-matter expert on policy and procedures.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory developments that may impact the university and provide timely updates.
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of the best practices in higher education policy.

Supporting the Policy Office

• Compile, edit and ensure the Policy Gazette (the newsletter of the Policy Office) is published regularly.
• Provide guidance and expert advice to the members of the Policy Consulting Group – the community of practice for the institution’s Policy Leads
• Maintain the repository of institutional policies and procedures, ensuring its ongoing accuracy and timely updates to the public-facing website.
Continuously monitor and refine internal policy development processes to enhance efficiency, transparency, and alignment with university values and goals

Position Requirements

Competencies:

• Ability to interpret complex policy documents and regulations.
• Collaborative, detail-oriented, and highly organized.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to analyze problems, evaluate possible alternatives, and implement solutions.
• Knowledge of the higher education landscape, including accreditation, funding models, and academic governance.
• Ability to facilitate work groups.
• Demonstrated ability to compose reports, presentations, and other written materials using clear and concise language.
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects.
• Ability to quickly respond to changing institutional needs.
• Ability to recognize sensitive and confidential matters and respond appropriately.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Higher Education, Political Science, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in policy research, analysis, or development, preferably in higher education institutions.
• Experience with business analysis processes and tools is an asset
• Familiarity with institutional effectiveness or strategic planning functions.
• Understanding of equity, access, and inclusion issues in higher education policy

#LI-IL1