Job Description

About

Officially founded in 1820, Sipekne’katik First Nation is a multi-generational, Mi’kmaq community of nearly 3,000 members located in Hants County, Nova Scotia. We are a close-knit community with a strong focus on education and health, and a strong desire to advance economic development initiatives.

In 2013, our community (commonly known as Indian Brook or Shubenacadie First Nation) reclaimed its traditional Indigenous name, Sipekne’katik, meaning “where the wild potatoes grow.”

Sipekne’katik is one of the seven geographic districts of Mi’kma’ki – the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq. It includes approximately 1,400 hectares of land holdings, including 408.3 hectares in New Ross, 43.5 hectares in Pennal 19, 412 hectares in Shubenacadie, 55.7 hectares in Wallace Hills, 1,000 acres at Grand Lake (Shubenacadie Indian Reserve No. 13) and 690 acres of fee-simple land.

Statement of Intention

Sipekne’katik First Nation is a community rooted in the traditions and history of our ancestors, taking pride in our Mi’kmaq culture, language and way of life. We are seeking a candidate with knowledge of and cultural sensitivity toward First Nations culture and our way of life. Preference will be provided to qualified Indigenous peoples, particularly those who identify as Mi’kmaq.

If accommodation to the recruitment process would help you present your full contribution potential, we would love to support you.

This Moment, This Position

Reporting directly to the Chief and Council, the Director of Operations is responsible for supporting and implementing strategic priorities, initiatives, and community-led goals. This leadership position oversees intergovernmental relations, economic development activities, and capital projects. The Director serves as a key liaison between the needs of the Chief & Council and operational departments.

This role provides high-level strategic advice, oversees negotiations, and supports governance work related to Mi’kmaq Treaty Rights and economic sustainability. The Director of Operations ensures that Chief and Council decisions are actioned across departments, working closely with leadership, staff, legal, and communication partners to strengthen operations and community well-being.

How You Will Contribute

– Oversee and manage band affairs, including business ventures, program initiatives, and intergovernmental relations.
– Provide leadership to consultation and economic development teams; currently serving as Interim CEO for the Economic Development Corporation.
– Act as the primary liaison for legal counsel and communications.
– Participate as a core member of governance negotiations.
– Support the implementation of the Comprehensive Community Plan alongside the Chief and Council.
– Manage capital and infrastructure projects from planning to completion.
– Conduct research and develop proposals that support revenue-generating ventures and rights-based advocacy.
– Interpret legislation, policies, and intergovernmental agreements to guide strategic planning.
– Provide guidance to the Director of Administration and escalate issues requiring Council attention.
– Facilitate dispute resolution, crisis management, and political advocacy as required.

What Will Help You Succeed

– Graduate Degree in Business, Management, Economic Development, Public Relations, or a related field.
– 5+ years of strategic leadership experience in First Nations governance, government relations, or senior management.
– Strong understanding of Mi’kmaq governance, Indigenous rights, and community priorities.
– Advanced negotiation, research, and project management skills.
– Ability to lead multi-stakeholder processes and oversee complex initiatives.
– Exceptional judgment, diplomacy, and written/verbal communication abilities.
– Experience managing high-level partnerships with government, legal, and community partners.
– Demonstrated experience in capital project oversight and interdepartmental coordination.
– Knowledge of Indigenous and/or Mi’kmaq organizations and governance structures.
– Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle with insurance.
– Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.

Work Environment & Commitments

– Based in a community office environment.
– Regular travel within and outside the community; occasional overnights required.
– Expected to work beyond a regular 35-hour work week during peak times.
– Frequent collaboration with Chief and Council and cross-functional teams.

The Package

Salary: $120,000 – $140,000 (negotiable within range based on experience)

Benefits & Pension: Health, dental, disability and life insurance, Employee & Family Assistance Program, and employer pension contributions.

Location: 522 Church St., Indian Brook, Nova Scotia

Application Details

Applications will be accepted until 12:00 pm (noon) on May 23, 2025.

Please include a cover letter that shares your story and your connection to the work.

Wela’lin!

What to Expect

We read every cover letter and review all applications closely.
Top candidates will be contacted by our recruitment partner for an exploratory call.
Selected candidates will be invited for a virtual interview with organizational leaders.
Finalists may be asked to complete a second-round interview or a brief task.
References will be checked, and an offer extended to the successful candidate.

Required languages: English

Education level: Graduate Degree in Business, Management, Economic Development, Public Relations, or a related field.

Required skills: Strategic Leadership, Intergovernmental Relations, Project Management, Economic Development Planning, Policy and Legislative Interpretation, Governance and Indigenous Rights Knowledge, Communication Skills, Conflict Resolution and Crisis Management, Team Leadership, Economic Development, Indigenous Culture, Traditional Knowledge, Cultural Competency, Economic Planning, Policy Interpretation, Indigenous Rights

Closest intersection: Sesame St