Communications & Events Manager

Okanagan Indian Band; Vernon; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization is seeking a Communications & Events Manager to enhance visibility and engagement within the community. This role involves crafting strategic communications, managing media relations, and planning impactful events that resonate with the community. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of creativity, cultural awareness, and digital expertise, ensuring that the voice of the organization is effectively communicated. Join a supportive team that values community connection and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including vacation pay, health benefits, and professional development opportunities. If you're passionate about community engagement and storytelling, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay

Extended Health and Dental Benefits

Employer Matched Pension Plan

15 Statutory Holidays

Paid Winter Holiday Break

Cultural Leave

Retention Bonuses

15 Paid Sick Days

Paid Personal Leave

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in communications or event management.
• Degree or diploma in Communications, Public Relations, or Journalism.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous governance and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement integrated communications strategies.
• Oversee annual events calendar and manage logistics.
• Create culturally relevant content for digital and print.

Skills

Strategic Communications

Event Planning

Content Development

Digital Marketing

Media Relations

Community Engagement

Education

Degree in Communications

Diploma in Public Relations

Tools

Social Media Platforms

Content Management Systems

Email Marketing Tools

Job description

Okanagan Indian Band

Communications & Events Manager

(Hybrid)

KʷU KʷLIW̓T L̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.
Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

• 3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay
• Extended Health and Dental Benefits
• Employer Matched Pension Plan
• 15 Statutory Holidays
• Paid Winter Holiday Break
• Cultural Leave
• Retention Bonuses after years of service
• 15 Paid Sick Days
• Paid Personal Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week

Start Date:ASAP

Deadline for applications: May 15, 2025

JOB SUMMARY
The Communications & Events Manager plays a key role in enhancing the voice, visibility, and engagement of Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB). In collaboration with staff, Chief and Council, and community members, this role is responsible for implementing a comprehensive communications strategy and leading all internal and external communications, media relations, and community-facing events.

The ideal candidate is a strategic storyteller, event planner, and community connector who brings creativity, cultural awareness, and digital expertise to support OKIB’s mission and goals.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
Reports to the Chief Executive Officer

SUPPORTS NEEDED

• Strategic Communications & Content Development
• Develop and implement integrated communications strategies that align with organizational values and community priorities
• Write, edit, and publish content across digital platforms (web, social media, email newsletters) and print materials
• Create culturally relevant, inclusive, and engaging content that reflects the voice and vision of the OKIB
• Proactively seek out and pitch stories to local and regional media to raise the profile of OKIB programs and services
• Provide communications support to leadership and departments, including key messaging, presentation materials, and event planning
• Digital Presence & Media Relations
• Lead the development and growth of the OKIB’s online presence, ensuring consistency and professionalism across platforms
• Monitor media trends and analytics to enhance engagement and reach.
• Serve as media liaison, developing press releases, statements, and coordinating interviews or press conferences
• Manage emergency communications as needed, working with leadership and local partners.
• Event Planning & Community Engagement
• Oversee the annual events calendar for OKIB, ensuring all major events are strategically planned, culturally appropriate, and well executed
• Coordinate and manage a variety of in-person and virtual events, including community meetings, training sessions, cultural celebrations, and digital expos
• Work closely with internal departments and external partners to ensure smooth logistics, communications, and promotion of events
• Facilitate post-event follow-up including community feedback, reporting, and documentation.
• Provide leadership to the communications function, mentoring staff or contractors where applicable
• Recommend tools, technologies, and best practices to enhance communications and engagement outcomes
• Develop protocols and templates to support efficient, consistent messaging across departments
• Support grant writing teams with storytelling, messaging, and content development for applications and reporting

GENERAL DUTIES

• Participates in community events as requested, with the flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends to support events and community initiatives
• All employees of OKIB may be required to assist in the delivery of emergency services. Duties during emergencies may differ from regular responsibilities.
• Performs duties in accordance with OKIB policies and procedures
• Performs other duties as required

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or carry a willingness to learn. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, and an excellent communicator.

Education

• Degree or diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a related discipline
• Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s Licence and access to a reliable vehicle
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in communications, public relations, or event management, preferably in a First Nations or community-based organization
• Experience in developing and implementing communication strategies, managing social media and working with diverse audiences is crucial
• Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and content creation across multiple formats
• Experience with website content management systems, social media scheduling tools, and email marketing platforms
• Proven success in planning and executing both digital and in-person events
• Strong understanding of Indigenous governance, community engagement practices, and cultural protocols
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including Elders, youth, staff, and leadership

Core Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)

• Community Focused – Deep commitment to serving and uplifting community voices and stories, cultural appropriateness and sensitivity towards OKIB and Community
• Adaptability – Able to manage multiple projects in a dynamic and evolving environment
• Relationship Builder – Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach to leadership,
• Strategic Thinker – Ability to align communications strategies with organizational goals
• Tech-Savvy – Comfortable using modern communication tools and platforms

DIRECT REPORTS
Communications Coordinator and Events Planner

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$35.00 - $45.00 per hour dependant on education and experience

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:

Email:[e-mail]
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4
If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ 250-542-4328 ext. 1011

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Preference will be given to qualified Aboriginal Applicants as per section 41 of the Human Rights Code.