Manager, Policy Research

Job Summary:

This position is responsible for developing RFDS-wide health policy research to assist the achievement of RFDS objectives of improving health outcomes in remote Australia and information sharing throughout the RFDS.

Position Details:

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) provides comprehensive primary health care and aeromedical retrieval services to regional, rural and remote communities across Australia.

The RFDS Federation Office is seeking a motivated Manager of Policy Research to fill a role based in Canberra. Working as part of a small office team and as a member of the Research and Policy Unit, this role will enable the RFDS to develop and publish high quality policy research papers, briefings, reports and submissions, which span all service delivery and relevant policy areas.
Drawing on internal RFDS and external data sources, this role will continue the production of research papers in order to inform a stronger advocacy voice for better health outcomes for Australians in rural and remote areas. Through the development of these papers, this role will be responsible for a research program that provides evidence to enable advocacy to retain and attract funds for RFDS services and address RFDS client needs.

This role will contribute to strategic advice provided to the Federation Board and CEO, and key staff and committees across the RFDS on matters relating to RFDS health services and broader remote, rural and regional health issues affecting the RFDS and its clients. This role will also support engagement with the Commonwealth Government on RFDS services and identified issues in rural and remote health, and support the coordination and program management of current RFDS national health programs and initiatives.

Essential Criteria:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in public policy and/or research Experience in preparing research publications, reports and related materials
• Highly developed research and data analysis capabilities, including the ability to assess and critically evaluate the validity of information Experience preparing policy briefs and background analysis based on consultations, published data and independent research
• Excellent oral communications skills with demonstrated intrapersonal and representational skills to deal with a broad range of groups and stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and relationships management including the ability to plan, identify and liaise with relevant internal and external stakeholders to inform research activities and policy development

Desirable Criteria:

• PhD or Masters qualification, preferably in a related field
• Demonstrated health policy experience including relevant tertiary qualifications and/or experience in health-related policy and research Experience and understanding of government processes (at a national level), including political and legislative processes Knowledge of the Australian health system, current relevant policies, and networks in the health sector
• Experience in inter-government relations
• Experience in research development, planning or delivery of rural and remote health services

Remuneration:

A remuneration package, including salary-packaging options commensurate with skills and experience will be offered.

Applications:

Applications should seek to address the role requirements and criteria outlined above and submitted to enquiries@rfds.org.au

For further information please contact Ms Lauren Gale, (02) 6269 5500

Applications for this role will close on Monday 19 February, 2018