Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

David Aplin Recruiting; Manitoba; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment firm is seeking a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Fort McKay First Nation. The ideal candidate will have 15-20 years of executive leadership experience, focusing on strategic vision and financial stewardship. This role involves leading operational excellence and advocating for community goals. A Bachelor’s degree is required; an MBA is preferred. Knowledge of Indigenous governance is crucial. This is a unique opportunity to impact the community significantly.

Qualifications

• 15-20 years of progressive executive leadership experience.
• Experience with strategic management and fiscal oversight.
• Fluency in Cree and/or Dene language is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of FMFN’s strategic priorities.
• Oversee financial planning and sustainable initiatives.
• Enhance service delivery and promote organizational growth.
• Build partnerships to advance FMFN’s goals.

Skills

Visionary leadership

Financial acumen

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of Indigenous governance

Analytical skills

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Master’s in Business Administration or Public Administration

Job description

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Join a top employer and advance your career. Aplin has partnered with a Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN), Alberta -based company to hire a ChiefAdministrative Officer (CAO).

On behalf of Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN), our executive search firm is seeking an experienced and visionary CAO to lead the organization and drive its strategic priorities. The CAO will work in close collaboration with the Chief and Council to guide FMFN’s long‑term vision and ensure operational excellence across all aspects of the organization. This critical leadership role focuses on fostering sustainable growth, enhancing community services, and advancing FMFN’s mission for the benefit of its members.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Partner with Chief and Council to implement and align FMFN’s strategic plan, ensuring priorities are met.
• Provide inspirational leadership to senior staff, fostering a professional and efficient organization.
• Build strong, transparent relationships with Chief and Council, focusing on performance metrics and community impact.

Financial Stewardship

• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and long‑term sustainability initiatives.
• Ensure sound fiscal management practices to align resources with FMFN’s mission and future needs.
• Drive revenue strategies through partnerships, government funding, joint ventures, and donor opportunities.

Operational Excellence

• Lead high‑quality service delivery, enabling organizational growth and efficiency.
• Promote collaboration across departments, strengthening communications and operations.
• Cultivate a positive work culture that attracts, retains, and motivates top talent.

Community Development & Advocacy

• Build partnerships with industry, government, and community leaders to advance FMFN’s goals.
• Represent FMFN as a leader in Indigenous governance, advocating for its mission locally and nationally.
• Collaborate with sustainability teams to generate revenue and enhance community programs.

Program Management

• Develop standardized programs that deliver measurable results and increase organizational consistency.
• Enhance FMFN’s brand, communications, and outreach to deepen its impact across Canada.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Experience: 15–20 years of progressive executive leadership, with significant fiscal and strategic management experience.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field. A Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or Public Administration (MPA) is preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Visionary leadership with the ability to prioritize, delegate, and drive sustainable growth.
• Strong financial and operational acumen.
• Exceptional problem‑solving, analytical, and coalition‑building skills.
• Proven success in recruiting, retaining, and developing high‑performing teams.
• Knowledge of Indigenous governance, cultural values, and legislative frameworks.
• Ability to build consensus, negotiate effectively, and inspire diverse stakeholders.
• Understanding of Cree and/or Dene language and experience working with First Nations communities is an asset.

This is a unique opportunity for a strategic and emotionally intelligent leader to make a transformative impact on the Fort McKay First Nation community.

At Aplin — together with our brands CompuStaff and Impact Recruitment — we connect great people with great organizations across North America. We believe diverse teams build stronger companies, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We use AI tools to assist in a fair and efficient matching process, helping our recruiters connect the right people with the right opportunities. To be considered, applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any required permits. Our recruitment services are always free for job seekers.

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