Manager Indigenous & Intergovernmental Relations

City of Coquitlam; Coquitlam; Hybrid; CAD 142,000 - 161,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Metro Vancouver is seeking an Indigenous and Intergovernmental Relations Manager. This role focuses on advancing partnerships with Indigenous communities and supporting reconciliation initiatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Indigenous relations, exceptional communication skills, and a passion for fostering meaningful collaborations. The position offers a salary range of $142,820 - $160,654 and the opportunity for flexible, hybrid work arrangements.

Benefits

Attractive vacation package

Extended benefits

Participation in Municipal Pension Plan

Learning and development opportunities

Earned day off / flex day program

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in Indigenous and intergovernmental relations.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge of reconciliation themes and engagement protocols.

Responsibilities

• Cultivating relationships with Indigenous communities.
• Leading engagement efforts and collaborating on action plans.
• Coordinating public-facing events promoting reconciliation.

Skills

Relationship building

Political acumen

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

Degree in Indigenous Studies or related field

Master's degree in Public Administration, Indigenous Studies, or Public Policy

Job description

About Us

One of BC’s Top Employers, the City of Coquitlam offers meaningful career opportunities to make a difference within the local community. As the sixth largest city in BC, we are home to more than 150,000 residents. Our diverse municipality is a great place to work as it continues to grow through innovative urban design, inspiring arts, culture and recreation programs, and state-of-the-art transportation systems. Our brand is built on managing our resources in a responsible and sustainable manner, while supporting a vibrant, growing regional urban centre. We envision a bright future in Coquitlam that we hope includes you!

About You / What We Are Looking For

The City of Coquitlam is seeking a passionate and strategic leader to champion Indigenous and intergovernmental relations in support of its commitment to reconciliation and community engagement. This is a unique opportunity for a relationship-driven professional to lead transformative initiatives—strengthening partnerships with local First Nations, advancing the City\'s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action, and fostering meaningful collaboration across all levels of government.

Reporting directly to the Director of Intergovernmental and External Partnerships, the Indigenous and Intergovernmental Relations Manager will serve as a trusted advisor to Council and the executive team. This role will provide strategic communications, staff reports to Council, and recommendations that reflect a culturally sensitive approach to the City\'s Indigenous and intergovernmental relations.

This role will lead and coordinate Indigenous relations committees, oversee the implementation of the City\'s Indigenous relations program - including advancing TRC Calls to Action, and spearhead public-facing events such as National Indigenous Peoples Day and other reconciliation-focused initiatives.

The successful candidate will be a skilled relationship builder particularly with Indigenous communities and other public sector partners, with strong political acumen that is capable of driving impactful change across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Cultivating and advancing relationships with Indigenous communities and government partners to support reconciliation and the City’s strategic goals.
• Leading engagement efforts and collaborating with internal teams to implement action plans and reporting mechanisms aligned with Council's direction.
• Coordinating and delivering public-facing events that promote awareness, education, and community participation in reconciliation efforts.
• Providing expert guidance on legislation, protocols, and best practices for intergovernmental and Indigenous engagement.
• Advising Council and senior leadership on emerging issues, risks, and opportunities related to Indigenous and intergovernmental relations.
• Championing organizational change and cultural awareness through training, strategic planning, and cross-departmental collaboration.
• Leading and coordinating Indigenous relations and advisory committees, ensuring culturally sensitive engagement and collaboration.
• Operationalizing and monitoring the City\'s Truth and Reconciliation Action Plan, including the Calls to Action.
• Representing the City on internal and external committees, fostering partnerships and promoting awareness.
• Supporting the development and implementation of intergovernmental strategies at the local, regional, provincial, and national levels.

Minimum Qualifications

• A degree in Indigenous Studies, Public Administration, Business, Public Policy, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of progressive experience in Indigenous and intergovernmental relations, within the municipal, private or public sector.
• Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous communities and facilitating engagement with local First Nations.
• Strong understanding of reconciliation themes, Indigenous traditions, and trauma-informed practices.
• Exceptional communication skills, political acumen, and the ability to build consensus across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Proven leadership in managing strategic initiatives, advisory committees, and public-facing events.
• Knowledge of Indigenous governance structures and engagement protocols.
• Proven ability to lead organizational change and influence culture across programs and services.
• Advanced political acumen and organizational sensitivity in navigating complex stakeholder environments.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation including the Local Government Act, Community Charter, and municipal bylaws and policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a municipal, private sector, or other government context.
• Familiarity with relevant legislation such as the Local Government Act and Community Charter.
• A track record of success in promoting teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Master\'s degree in a related field such as Public Administration, Indigenous Studies, or Public Policy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret emerging issues and develop strategic responses.

What We Offer

This excluded position has an annual salary range of $142,820 - $160,654 (2025 Rate). The rate of pay is based on a variety of factors including qualifications, knowledge, experience and skills.

You will have the chance to join a rapidly growing and diverse team dedicated to supporting the local community, and be able to engage in variety of learning and development opportunities. Additionally, there is an opportunity to participate in an earned day off / flex day program. This position is based in Coquitlam with the potential for flexible, hybrid work options available subject to supervisor’s approval. The City offers an attractive vacation and extended benefits package, including the ability to contribute to the Municipal Pension Plan.

Accessibility / Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Coquitlam is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer working towards enhancing equitable practices in our recruitment and retention processes. As an organization we are committed to creating an inclusive work environment to support our growing and diverse work force. To learn more about what equity, diversity, and inclusion means, and the City’s efforts in support of these principles, please visit coquitlam.ca / edi for more information.

If at any time during the application or recruitment process you require additional assistance or an accommodation, please contact our team for confidential support. Staff can also provide in-person support if required.