Employees

Senior Policy Analyst

Employee Name:

Chad Vandermolen

Title:

Senior Policy Analyst

Ministry:

Ministry of Health Services

Background:

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (UBC); Bachelor of Law [LL.B.] (UVic)
Member of the BC Public Service Since: 2007

My Role

I provide research, policy, legislative and regulatory support and analysis aimed at optimizing flexibility in how, and what, health care services are delivered and ensuring appropriate and cost-effective service delivery. I also engage in both internal and external consultations, develop policy and do a lot of legwork. I am working on legislative proposals that go out to stakeholders and get their thoughts and recommendations. I'm also preparing briefing notes and other documents for government to consider and working with legislative council and other areas in government in the actual drafting of legislation.

Career Path:

Following graduation from UVic in 2005, I worked in private practice, practicing primarily insurance defence and civil litigation. I felt that I could contribute more to public policy and big issues in government. I really felt my role in private practice was reactive, working with existing systems rather than trying to improve them. I also wanted a job that would provide me with work/life balance.

What I Like Best:

I like the professional, collegial atmosphere and the dynamic, challenging and meaningful projects I am a part of. Many employers talk of work-life balance; here it's a reality. I like the fact that I have the chance to evaluate and shape important policy aspects that affect everyone's lives, health touches all of us. It feels good that I can be a part of working on those challenges.

Ideas At Work:

One of our goals is to advance overall health safety and care for patients and British Columbians. Another objective is to ensure that people benefit from an appropriate balance of public and private health care. Economically, it makes sense in terms of flexibility and control over one's own health care - there are good options out there. I am part of developing public safety and legislative initiatives with that end in mind.

Advice:

Pick an area of policy you feel particularly passionate about. And don't jump at just any opportunity. The co-op positions in our division seem to be a really good learning tool for people who are interested and a large number of co-ops have gained a full-time position out of it. If you think you might have an interest in government, you should really be aggressive and creative in seeking out additional information.