Strategic Initiatives Manager - Lands and Resources
Job No:
AQAM202349
Location:
Cranbrook, BC
About ʔaq̓am.
ʔaq̓am is a member Community of the Ktunaxa Nation (pronounced ‘k-too-nah-ha’). ʔaq̓am Organization exists for the Community. Externally, we are here to serve the Community, and internally, we are our own Community, comprised of different departments unified by our Vision, Mission, and Values. As a team, through our own roles and departments, the ʔaq̓am Organization works together to achieve our strategic plan – “ka kniⱡwityaⱡa ~ Our Thinking”, and continue to progress and move our Community forward.
ʔaq̓am is located in the beautiful, sunny centre of Ktunaxa Traditional Territory in the southeast corner of British Columbia. If you love the outdoors, the mountains, fresh air, and the sun, this is the place for you. We are here to work towards achieving ʔaq̓am’s Vision: “A vibrant, healthy community, speaking our language, governing effectively, and maximizing our lands and resources for the benefit of future generations and all living things, in a manner consistent with qanikitȼi (our values and principles).” Be a part of an excellent team, perform meaningful work that will realize long-term benefits, share in worthwhile accomplishments, celebrate successes, join in the camaraderie, build strong relationships and enjoy lifelong learning!
About the Opportunity
The Strategic Initiatives Manager – Lands and Resources, is responsible for executing strategic work according to natural law and qanikitȼi (ʔaq̓am values and principles) for the use and benefit of all ʔaq̓amnik’ (ʔaq̓am people present and future generations). This position seeks to support Chief and Council in the implementation of long-term systemic change such that that ʔaq̓am plays a credible and legitimate role in decision-making and land stewardship in ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa.
The position supports and develops negotiation strategies and represents ʔaq̓am with external governments, industry and stakeholders on land and resource based strategic initiatives. The position develops complementary policies, strategies and processes to implement a variety of collaborative land stewardship initiatives, negotiation efforts, agreements and projects. The position may be required to work in highly contentious environments.
The position follows an annually approved work plan and performs other duties and responsibilities as necessary in the performance of the position, and as assigned by the CAO.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and/or participate in the negotiation of Title and Rights-based Agreements for the benefit of ʔaq̓am
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In consultation with the CAO draft agreements and work with legal counsel on how best to address ʔaq̓am’s interests, rights and title, and other legally complex issues in a constantly changing environment.Lead and/or participate in consultation and strategic initiatives with industry and government to protect and enhance ʔaq̓am Aboriginal Title and Rights and governance interests within ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa.
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Administer ʔaq̓am Specific Claims including working closely with legal counsel and relaying complex information to Chief and Council for decision-making.
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Work with a team to conduct extensive community engagement to ensure community priorities and interests are foundational to all negotiation, consultation and agreements;
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More About You
The successful candidate ideally holds a Masters degree in Land Use Planning, Resource Development, Aboriginal history/rights, Public Administration or relevant discipline. A combination of education/Ktunaxa knowledge and lived experience will be considered. A senior manager with 8-10 years experience in a similar role, developing and implementing strategic plans, negotiating agreements, policy and law development and land and resource development is preferred. Previous experience working directly with Indigenous Nations, elected Chief and Council and Knowledge Holders as well as experience working with a variety of stakeholder groups including government, agencies, First Nations, industry and non-profits is required. We are seeking a strategic, analytical thinker with a Community focused approach who will take a decolonized approach and support a trauma-informed workplace. You must have a clear Criminal Record and provide proof of such as well as provision of a clean driver’s abstract and a Valid Class 5 license.
Salary will commensurate with experience from a range ($78,000 to $111,000 per year) and includes a favorable benefits package and pension plan.
The position will be open until Monday, April 21, 2025 at 4:00 pm. Preference will be given to candidates of Ktunaxa or other Indigenous ancestry and ʔaq̓am encourages applicants to self-identify within your application.
Thank you to all those that apply, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
