About the role:
The Ombudsman is an independent, impartial Officer of the Legislature that resolves and investigates complaints about Ontario government organizations, broader public sector bodies (including municipalities, universities and school boards), child protection services, and compliance with the French Language Services Act. The Ombudsman recommends solutions to individual and systemic administrative problems, and promotes fairness, accountability and transparency in the public sector as well as respect for French language service rights and the rights of children and youth in care.
Legal Counsel actively work across all units of the Ontario Ombudsman’s Office. Their work positively impacts Ontarians as they negotiate changes to practices, policies and legislation within the public sector. Counsel investigate serious and complex cases, prepare investigative reports, and provide legal advice and support to the Ombudsman and staff. Working within a collaborative team, Counsel carry their own caseloads. They may also work on internal policy development and contract preparation, as well as conduct staff training. Acting as representatives of the Office, Counsel participate in outreach activities such as conferences, symposia and other events that connect stakeholders to the important work we do.
Responsibilities:
- Conducts extensive legal research and provides legal advice and analysis to the Ombudsman and staff members on a variety of matters with the primary focus being administrative law, municipal law and investigative procedure. Keeps abreast of relevant developments in the law, including legislative and regulatory amendments.
- In complex, systemic and open meeting cases, as required, assists in developing investigative plans and conducts investigations, including interviewing witnesses; identifying, obtaining, reviewing and analyzing relevant documentation; working to tight timelines; and producing reports on the results of investigations.
- Works in collaboration with Senior Counsel in the conduct of investigations and production of reports.
- Represents the Office in litigation as required, including preparation of pleadings and court attendance.
- Assists in the development of organizational policies to meet legal requirements.
- Participates in outreach activities, enhancing stakeholders' understanding of the Ombudsman’s role and function.
Knowledge and experience:
- Must be currently licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, with a minimum of 2-4 years of experience as legal counsel.
- Demonstrated experience in relevant areas of practice such as administrative, education, child and youth, or municipal law and experience in conducting administrative investigations considered an asset.
Required skills and competencies:
- Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of handling emotionally charged situations and dealing with a diverse range of stakeholders and complainants.
- Superior research and analytical skills with an excellent ability to provide legal advice and opinions, and prepare a variety of materials including memos of law and high-quality, detailed investigative reports.
- Superior written and oral communication skills in English, with the ability to represent the office in outreach activities and prepare detailed investigative reports. Competency in French is considered an asset.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a collaborative team environment, managing multiple projects and priorities within established timelines.
Additional requirements:
- Please include a cover letter with your résumé, describing your experience/achievements working in complaint handling and why you are interested in a role with Ombudsman Ontario.
- Must be eligible to work in Canada and work from the office as per work requirements.
- Some travel may be required.
Our recruitment practices reflect the Ontario Ombudsman’s continuing goal of encouraging a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Accommodations in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code will be provided.
Only applicants selected to participate in the recruitment process will be contacted.