Fort William First Nation – Chief Executive Officer

Phelps; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Fort William First Nation is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead and oversee programs and governance with a focus on community-driven initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong financial and operational background and be dedicated to fostering a vibrant future for the Nation while respecting Anishinaabe traditions and values.

Qualifications

• Strategic mindset with community-centered leadership.
• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and manage complex operations.
• Resilience and sound judgment in complex situations.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for FWFN programs and operations.
• Support Chief and Council in implementing long-term strategic vision.
• Act as liaison with government officials and manage stakeholder relationships.

Skills

Financial management

Governance expertise

Community-centered leadership

Collaboration and transparency

Cultural competency

Education

University degree in Business Administration

Five years of senior management experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Accounting software

Job description

Lead with Integrity. Build Community. Shape the Future.

Fort William First Nation (FWFN), situated on the historic Fort William Reserve along the western shore of Lake Superior, is an Ojibwe community grounded in a rich history dating back to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850. As the administrative and cultural heart of the Nation, FWFN is dedicated to supporting the holistic wellbeing—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—of its members, with a vision of becoming a healthy, vibrant, and self-sustaining community built on traditional Anishinaabe values. We are now seeking a Chief Executive Officer who will lead with cultural humility and strategic insight to champion community-driven programs, strengthen governance, and uphold the promises of our past while guiding the Nation toward a thriving future.

About the Role

Reporting to Chief and Council, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides strategic leadership and oversight for the delivery of all FWFN programs, services, and operations. As CEO, you will play a pivotal role in aligning organizational priorities with the community’s long-term vision, ensuring effective administration, strong financial stewardship, and meaningful service outcomes for members.

You will foster a high-performing and culturally grounded organization, leading Senior Managers and staff to deliver exceptional programs in alignment with Council decisions and community priorities. A champion for collaboration and transparency, you will support sound governance, oversee financial and operational systems, and build relationships with all levels of government, partners, and stakeholders. Most importantly, you will serve the Nation with integrity and humility, helping to strengthen a vibrant and prosperous future for all.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

• Support Chief and Council in the development and implementation of FWFN’s long-term strategic vision
• Lead the coordination of governance meetings, prepare Council agendas and by-laws, and oversee implementation of Council resolutions
• Provide regular updates and reports on operational, financial, and strategic matters

Operational Management & Program Delivery

• Direct and support the Senior Management Team in delivering services and programs to the community
• Oversee annual budgeting, planning, audits, and financial reporting, ensuring strong internal controls and accountability
• Monitor and evaluate department performance, establish objectives, and align resources with community needs

Government & Stakeholder Relations

• Act as FWFN’s liaison with government officials, agencies, and the media
• Represent the Nation’s interests in funding negotiations and partnership development
• Prepare contribution agreements, funding proposals, and ensure timely access to required resources

Organizational Culture & Capacity Building

• Champion a healthy workplace culture grounded in transparency, respect, and community values
• Support talent development and performance evaluation across departments
• Ensure the security and responsible management of all FWFN assets and resources

Candidate Profile

You are a values-driven and strategic leader with experience guiding organizations through growth and change. With a proven ability to lead high-performing teams, manage complex operations, and build trusting relationships with leadership, staff, and external stakeholders, you are ready to serve Fort William First Nation with dedication and heart.

You bring:

• A strategic mindset with a commitment to community-centered leadership
• Strong governance experience and the ability to support and implement Council decisions
• Excellent financial and operational management skills, including budgeting and audit coordination
• A collaborative, transparent, and relationship-oriented leadership style
• Cultural competency and a respect for Anishinaabe traditions, teachings, and protocols
• Resilience, adaptability, and sound judgment in complex situations

Qualifications

• A university degree in Business Administration, Finance, or a related field
• A minimum of five (5) years of senior management experience in First Nation Administration. Equivalent combination of education and experience considered
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with accounting software
• Valid Ontario Driver’s License and the ability to travel
• Must be able to work flexible hours and undergo a Vulnerable Sector and Judicial Records Check
• Understanding of the traditions, heritage, and cultural lifeways of Fort William First Nation is a strong asset

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader who is passionate about serving and empowering Indigenous communities, we want to hear from you!

For more information or to apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to Phelps by clicking here: https://rb.gy/dyz7w2

Application deadline: August 12th, 2025