Director, Infection Prevention and Control

Job Summary:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision and Values, and strategic directions of Provincial Health Services Authority patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA, and as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.
The Director, Infection Prevention and Control provides senior level leadership to PHSA agencies and is accountable for the development, implementation and evaluation of the comprehensive infection prevention and control program in alignment with the strategic goals of the PHSA and Agency. The Director is responsible for the strategic and operational management of the department, and accountable for leading the ongoing development of centralized infection prevention and control activities and initiatives.

Duties/Accountabilities:

• Leads the development and implementation of Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) strategies across Agencies to ensure IPAC related standards and best practices are met. Develops an Infection Prevention and Control Improvement Plan by collaborating with infection control leaders, and evaluating the plan annually.
• Provides advice and consultation to agency leadership regarding the complex issues, activities and goals of the agency, while minimizing the risk to the patients, the professional staff and the organization. Responsible for ensuring Agency, Board, Ministry or other reporting requirements are maintained.
• Ensures infection prevention and control accreditation reporting requirements meet PHSA standards through development of programs, policies and initiatives, review, evaluation and assessment, Reviews and assesses the PHSA infection prevention and control plan.
• Develops and maintains collaborative relationships within the Department, organization and external agencies, and stakeholders related to quality performance initiatives. Promote team spirit, trust and mutual respect.
• Formulates, implements, and evaluates strategic plans, goals and objectives for the department that aligns with the strategic plans of the Agency and the PHSA.
• Provides leadership to build consensus and the ability to engage employees; establishes respectful stakeholder relationships, leveraging on knowledge-sharing to ensure staff are informed and equipped to handle changes that impact their responsibilities. Builds and maintains organizational awareness of and promote a strong positive profile of PS&QI at the agency.
• Leads and directs agency based teams who provide service and support to Programs regarding initiatives and programs; ensures Accreditation activities and reporting is maintained and appropriate/timely response to patient complaints and concerns. Manages and develops operating budget.

Qualifications:

Masters prepared in Nursing, Health Administration, related health discipline or other relevant area, plus a minimum of 10 years of clinical practice and professional management/leadership. Current practicing registration with the British Columbia College of Nursing Professionals (BCCNP). Certification in Infection Control (CIC), or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Demonstrated team-building, facilitation and presentation skills and proven ability to work collaboratively across functional units and in a matrix organization to achieve common goals. Highly skilled communicator, possess excellent interpersonal skills coupled with a demonstrated ability to promote an environment that motivates others, maximizes the potential of individuals, and negotiates effectively to resolve conflict.