Position Summary

Seabird Island is committed to supporting sustainable economic growth and community development within a culturally safe and inclusive environment. We are dedicated to fostering initiatives that reflect and uphold Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking an Economic and Community Development Officer to advance local economic opportunities, community empowerment, and Indigenous business engagement.

The Economic and Community Development Officer will support the planning, coordination, and implementation of strategies that align with Seabird Islands long-term economic and community development goals. The ECDO will work closely with leadership, external stakeholders, and government agencies to identify and pursue economic opportunities that reflect the values, culture, and priorities of Seabird Island. This role includes the delivery and administration of business development programs, the attraction and support of new business ventures, and the maintenance of strong relationships with existing partners and organizations engaged in business with Seabird Island. The Officer will also oversee community security initiatives and play an active role in community engagement and member support efforts.

This is a one-year term contract with the possibility of extension.

What You'll Do

Planning and Strategy

• Prepare annual business and work plans focused on strategic priorities.
  
• Facilitate, implement, and update the long-term Economic Development Strategic Plan.
  
• Develop multi-year budgets aligned with strategic goals.
  
• Assist with fulfilling economic and community development initiatives as directed by the Strategic Advisor.

Economic Development

• Manage economic development programs and resources.
  
• Act as primary contact for business partners and joint ventures.
  
• Develop criteria and recommendations for new projects and business proposals.
  
• Analyze the risks/benefits of business opportunities.
  
• Secure and administer funding or grants and ensure compliance reporting.
  
• Conduct financial analysis and net worth generation from initiatives.

Business Engagement

• Provide economic and business development information to interest groups, local and other levels of government and business development proponents.
  
• Respond to inquiries from businesses and individuals.
  
• Attract new businesses and investment opportunities.
  
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with stakeholders, funders, and investors.
  
• Assist in negotiations and represent Seabird Island in economic discussions.

Community Development & Engagement

• Support and implement community engagement initiatives that promote economic self-sufficiency and small business development.
  
• Build and maintain relationships with community members to identify local development needs.
  
• Promote locally owned Indigenous businesses and capacity-building initiatives.

Program Oversight and Supervision

• Manage and direct professional service providers as required.
  
• Administer and monitor expenditures within approved budgets.
  
• Provide management and oversight of community security services to align with community safety and wellness goals.

Reporting and Evaluation

• Provide conclusions and recommendations for leadership decision-making.
  
• Prepare and present reports to leadership, partners, and funders.
  
• Maintain documentation for all projects, funding, and initiatives.

Representation and Advocacy

• Represent Seabird Island in meetings with members, the public, government agencies, funding bodies, and business stakeholders.
  
• Ensure that the department implements appropriate training initiatives that will enhance as well as promote member first employment and training opportunities for Seabird Island Band
  
• Conduct site visits to assess project outcomes and compliance with agreements.

Other Duties

• Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

Working / Special Conditions

• Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Review Program Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
• Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'wqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
• Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage and support projects, work, and initiatives.
• Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate theneeds and schedules of events, meetings, and engagements. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.

What You Bring

Qualifications:

• Bachelors or graduate degree in business administration, economics marketing, finance or a related field. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
  
• At least 5 years of relevant experience working within Indigenous communities, in senior management role with demonstrated successful management of an economic development corporation.
  
• Proven ability to work with business and investors to develop joint venture opportunities.
  
• Proven ability to secure funding and grant monies to support projects.
  
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

Preferred:

• Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
• Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Islands culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
• Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
  

Cultural Competency:

• Understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Experience working within Indigenous communities preferred.

How to Apply

• Have a question about this role before you apply? [email protected].
• Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter sharing how your experience aligns with this role.

Pre-Employment Screening

Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Mtis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.

Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.