The Workers’ Compensation Board of Nova Scotia (WCB Nova Scotia) is the province’s provider of workplace injury insurance. Working with employers, workers and partners across the province, the organization protects Nova Scotians from the impact of workplace injuries through progressive return-to-work programs and by informing, inspiring and promoting healthy and safe workplaces. When an injury occurs, the organization supports those whose lives it touches, fostering a timely and safe return to work. They also provide caring, compassionate support over the long term in the wake of workplace tragedy.

Today is an exciting time in WCB Nova Scotia’s history as it charts a new transformational path with a new Strategic Plan. The organization is committed to and focused on working differently in the future to drive exceptional service, innovation, opportunity, and improved outcomes for Nova Scotians.

WCB NS’ General Counsel is responsible for the provision of legal and strategic expertise, advice, and counsel on a broad range of legal issues to protect and advance the legal interests of the WCB Nova Scotia. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Governance and Legal, they provide leadership and direction to the Legal Services team and oversee all legal aspects of the organization to ensure that the WCB Nova Scotia conducts operations and business activities in accordance with the Workers’ Compensation Act, Regulations, and other applicable legislation related to the operations of the WCB Nova Scotia.

The General Counsel’s mandate extends beyond traditional legal responsibilities. They will not only safeguard the company’s interests but will also work to advance the objectives in the WCB’s new 2024-2030 Strategic Plan to ensure the workers’ compensation system continues to evolve to meet the needs of everyone it serves. Key for the new General Counsel will be the Plan objective for progressive reform of Nova Scotia’s Workers’ Compensation Legislative, Policy, and Appeal frameworks. This will require extensive collaboration with WCB Nova Scotia’s system partners as well as workers and employers and their representatives across the province. The General Counsel will work with key internal and external relationships to develop forward-thinking legal strategies that will respond to the fast-paced changes in the legislative and regulatory landscape. The General Counsel will also develop and implement a future state model for WCB’s Legal Services, leveraging technology and streamlining processes, thus fostering an agile legal environment that optimizes resources to achieve corporate goals.

WCB Nova Scotia’s General Counsel has demonstrated experience nurturing a culture of continuous improvement within a legal services department, leading the team with the proactive insight and innovation needed to thrive. An authentic and inclusive people leader, they also have a track record of building and supporting an engaged and performance-focused team. Experience or a deep understanding of federal and provincial privacy legislation, current legal practices in contracting, and compliance processes are assets. They have strong judgement that incorporates a balanced and pragmatic approach. They are also influential, demonstrating superior communication and interpersonal skills that enable them to cultivate strong relationships and partnerships.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of ten years of progressive legal practice, with at least five years in senior leadership, a Bachelor of Laws degree and is a member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Barristers Society or is eligible to become so.

To learn more about WCB Nova Scotia, visit https://www.wcb.ns.ca

Royer Thompson and WCB Nova Scotia embrace a culture of belonging in the workplace. No matter who you are, where you’re from, how you think, what you believe in, or who you love, we welcome your application. We all come from different backgrounds and different walks of life, bringing in unique perspectives and experiences. We encourage applications from 2SLGBTQ+, Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC), women, newcomers to Canada, and people with disabilities. If you are a member of one of these underrepresented groups, we invite you to self-identify on your cover letter or resume.

For further information about this incredible opportunity, please contact Jenna Gromack (jgromack@royerthompson.com) or Greg Dickie (gdickie@royerthompson.com). To submit your resume and cover letter, please visit www.royerthompson.com to apply online.

We will provide accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Please reach out if you require accommodations to participate in the application, interviewing or selection process.