Director, Community Development

Nch'?ay Development Corporation; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Nch'ḵay Development Corporation is seeking a Director of Community Development to provide strategic leadership and vision for initiatives that uphold Squamish values. The role involves overseeing development projects, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring cultural integration within community and economic development efforts.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership and relationship-building skills, especially within Indigenous contexts.
• Experience managing complex projects and teams.
• Deep understanding of Skwxwu7mesh history and traditions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and communicate a long-term vision aligned with Squamish values.
• Build relationships with internal and external partners to support development goals.
• Oversee development initiatives and monitor key performance indicators.

Skills

Leadership

Relationship Building

Cultural Integration

Community Engagement

Education

Relevant education in Indigenous Studies or related field

Job description

Nch'ḵay, established in 2018, functions as the economic development arm of the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). The Real Estate Development Department aims to create vibrant places and communities that embody Squamish values. The Director of Community Development will contribute to fostering long-term economic prosperity for the Nation and its members.

About the Squamish Nation:

Skwxwu7mesh are descendants of the original Skwxwu7mesh-speaking villages located throughout the watersheds of the Squamish River, Mamquam River, Howe Sound, English Bay, False Creek, and Burrard Inlet. With over 4,100 members, the Skwxwu7mesh Úxwumixw is one of the largest First Nations in British Columbia, experiencing growth, ambition, and opportunity.

Scope of the Position

The Director of Community Development provides strategic leadership and vision for Nch'kaỷ initiatives, with a focus on upholding Sḵwxwú7mesh Values within community and economic development projects. This role drives the development and implementation of strategic plans, builds organizational capacity, and ensures transparent communication of progress, all while upholding the Nation's and Nch'ḵay's vision, governance, and operational principles. The Director is a strategic thinker, an influential communicator, and a proactive leader who drives organizational value through innovative strategies and impactful outcomes.

Reporting to the VP of Real Estate & Development, the Director fosters strong collaborative relationships with senior leadership and Council, engaging high-level partnerships to define goals, establish priorities, and achieve the Nation's and Nch'ḵay's long-term development objectives.

Responsibilities include:

1. Strategic Leadership & Vision: Develop and communicate a long-term vision aligned with Squamish values.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: Build relationships with internal and external partners to support development goals.
3. Implementation & Performance: Oversee development initiatives and monitor key performance indicators.
4. Risk Management & Decision-Making: Identify risks and make strategic decisions to mitigate them.
5. Resource Allocation & Partnerships: Allocate resources and cultivate partnerships.
6. Cultural Integration & Community Alignment: Ensure initiatives respect and incorporate Squamish cultural values.
7. External Representation & Leadership: Represent the Nation in negotiations and provide leadership to teams.
8. Financial Oversight: Manage budgets and resources responsibly.
9. Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Proven leadership and relationship-building skills, especially within Indigenous contexts.
• Experience managing complex projects and teams.
• Deep understanding of Skwxwu7mesh history and traditions, supported by relevant education.
• Commitment to cultural integration and community engagement.

Special Requirements:

• Willing to work additional hours and travel as needed.

Working Conditions: Office environment with prolonged sitting; ability to lift boxes as required.

Salary Range: $150,000 - $180,000, with a typical variation of ±5% based on qualifications and market conditions.