ADM Inuusivut, Mental Health and Addictions

Assistant Deputy Minister – Inuusivut, Mental Health and Addictions

Location: Iqaluit 

With one of the fastest growing and youngest populations in Canada, Nunavut is a dynamic and vibrant territory, committed to building a stronger and healthier future for generations to come. The Government of Nunavut continues to advance its distinctive model of governance—one that is grounded in Inuit societal values (Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit), promotes the use of Inuktut, fosters a representative public service, and works in close partnership to realize the full promise of Nunavut.

In this context of transformation and system-wide priority on wellness, the Government of Nunavut is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as Assistant Deputy Minister, Inuusivut – Mental Health and Addictions, within the Department of Health. Reporting to the Deputy Minister of Health, the ADM will play a critical leadership role in advancing Nunavut’s mental health and addictions strategy, strengthening services, and improving outcomes for individuals, families, and communities across the territory.

The Assistant Deputy Minister, Inuusivut – Mental Health and Addictions is responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership across a complex and evolving portfolio that includes community mental health services, addictions programming, suicide prevention, and culturally grounded wellness initiatives. The ADM will lead efforts to modernize and integrate services, improve access in remote communities, and ensure programs are trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and aligned with Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. This role requires close collaboration with community partners, Inuit organizations, frontline service providers, and other government departments to address systemic challenges and advance a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to mental health and wellness.

The ideal candidate will hold a degree in health sciences, public health, social work, psychology, public administration, or a related field from a recognized university, complemented by progressive senior leadership experience in mental health, addictions, health services, or a related social services environment. Experience working in Indigenous, remote, or northern contexts, along with a demonstrated commitment to culturally responsive service delivery, will be considered strong assets. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

This position is designated as a Position of Trust; therefore, a satisfactory Criminal Record Check is required. Candidates whose experience aligns through a comparable combination of education and leadership experience are encouraged to apply.

The Official Languages of Nunavut are Inuktut, English, and French. Applicants may submit their resume in any of the official languages. Knowledge of Inuit communities, culture, land, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, and Inuktut, as well as experience working in a northern and cross-cultural environment, are considered valuable assets.

If you are interested in exploring this opportunity further, we encourage you to reach out to Renée Young at [email protected] for a confidential discussion. Please include the title of the position in the subject line of your email.

To apply to the position please click here: 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

The Government of Nunavut is committed to creating a representative workforce; therefore, priority will be given to Nunavut Inuit who self-identify as being enrolled under the Nunavut Agreement in accordance with the Priority Hiring Policy. Government of Nunavut employees serving a probationary period must obtain and provide written authorization from the deputy head of their employing department. The authorization from the deputy head must accompany your application for your application to be considered.