Director of Sustainability & Economic Development

David Aplin Recruiting; Port Hawkesbury; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading natural resources company in Eastern Nova Scotia seeks a Director of Sustainability & Economic Development. This senior role involves driving sustainable growth, cultivating community partnerships, and influencing policy discussions. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in related fields, with a strong focus on environmental responsibility. Excellent communication skills and a collaborative leadership style are essential. The organization values innovation and integrity within a fast-paced work environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in business development, sustainability, or stakeholder relations.
• Demonstrated success in partnering with government and industry stakeholders.
• Knowledge of forest products, regulatory frameworks, or infrastructure development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives for sustainable growth.
• Cultivate partnerships with government and communities.
• Monitor relevant policy and regulatory trends.

Skills

Relationship-driven leadership

Results-oriented mindset

Excellent communication skills

Education

Post-secondary degree in Business, Forestry, Engineering, Environmental Science, or related discipline

Job description

To Apply for this Job Click Here

Aplin Executive Search is partnering with a well-established and forward-thinking natural resources company based in Eastern Nova Scotia to recruit a Director of Sustainability & Economic Development. This is a rare leadership opportunity to influence long-term economic growth and environmental stewardship in a regionally significant operation.

The successful candidate will report to senior leadership and will be responsible for identifying and advancing strategic opportunities that support both sustainable development and community engagement. This role blends high-level business development with a deep commitment to environmental responsibility and regional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives that drive sustainable growth and economic development aligned with the company’s operational objectives.
• Cultivate partnerships with government agencies, Indigenous communities, and regional organizations to support shared economic and environmental priorities.
• Represent the company in industry, sector, and community forums, acting as a liaison and ambassador for sustainable resource development.
• Identify opportunities leveraging the company’s assets across forest management, infrastructure, renewable energy, and regional logistics.
• Monitor relevant policy, regulatory, and economic trends to inform business decisions and support advocacy efforts.
• Support collaboration across internal departments and external stakeholders to align operational execution with strategic goals.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a relationship-driven, results-oriented leader with a strategic mindset and entrepreneurial spirit. They will have a proven ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and a strong understanding of sustainability in natural resources or industrial operations.

This role requires someone who can operate with both strategic foresight and hands-on leadership—comfortable engaging community partners, shaping policy discussions, and delivering business results.

Qualifications & Experience

• A post-secondary degree in Business, Forestry, Engineering, Environmental Science, Public Policy, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in business development, sustainability, economic development, or stakeholder relations—preferably within the natural resources or manufacturing sectors.
• Demonstrated success in building partnerships with government, Indigenous organizations, and industry stakeholders.
• Knowledge of forest products, regulatory frameworks, environmental policy, or infrastructure development is a strong asset.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage across public and private sectors.
• A collaborative, values-driven leadership style with a strong sense of accountability and purpose.

The Organization

Our client is a recognized leader in sustainable industrial operations and economic development in Atlantic Canada. Committed to safety, environmental responsibility, and innovation, the company plays a vital role in regional economic vitality while upholding high standards in resource stewardship and community partnership.

Operating in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a flat organizational structure, the company fosters a culture of integrity, innovation, and agility—where decisions are made without bureaucracy, and impact is both measurable and meaningful.

David Aplin & Associates Inc., operating as Aplin, along with its brands CompuStaff and Impact Recruitment, is an award-winning employment agency connecting diverse, top-tier talent with organizations across North America. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and charge no fees to apply or engage with our recruiters. All applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding necessary work permits.

To Apply for this Job Click Here

J-18808-Ljbffr