Strategic Engagement Manager - Competition 2025-122

Manitoba Chiefs; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A First Nations organization in Winnipeg seeks a Strategic Engagement Manager to develop engagement strategies that support child and family wellbeing. The role requires overseeing development projects, collaborating with First Nations, and demonstrating strong leadership and project management skills. Preferred candidates include those with a background in Social Sciences and experience working with Indigenous communities. The position offers opportunities to influence culturally respectful solutions.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of management and project management experience.
• Experience working with First Nations and knowledge of their culture.
• Proficient in managing complex projects and meeting tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of development projects.
• Collaborate with First Nations to develop strategic plans.
• Provide reports and updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Leadership skills

Interpersonal communication

Analytical skills

Cultural awareness

Education

University degree in Social Sciences

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the guidance and direction of the Director of Children and Families, the Strategic Engagement Manager will develop and implement engagement strategies that strengthen partnerships, enhance capacity, and support First Nations' long‑term goals. The Strategic Engagement Manager will also lead initiatives to foster collaboration, ensuring that culturally respectful, Nation‑driven solutions are at the forefront of all engagement efforts.

KEY ACTIVITIES

• Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of multiple development projects or initiatives.
• Research funding opportunities and prepare briefings for First Nations leadership to support capacity‑building efforts.
• Liaise and collaborate with First Nations to develop strategic plans for establishing offices to support child and family wellbeing.
• Support capacity‑building in First Nations to enhance service delivery for children and families.
• Work closely with First Nations to develop a preventative service delivery model that is strength‑based and rooted in First Nations culture, traditions, and belief systems.
• Assist First Nations with the development of an operational structure as requested.
• Conduct training and development sessions for First Nations serving children and families, as requested.
• Liaise with First Nations seeking support with workshop development and implementation, and work with FNFAO staff to coordinate workshop delivery in First Nations.
• Assist with developing training manuals for each stream of service offered through the FNFAO.
• Lead the development of strategies that align with the organization's or Nation's vision and goals.
• Work closely with senior leadership to shape the direction of capacity‑building or development initiatives.
• Set clear objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs) for development programs.
• Ensure projects are on track, within scope, on budget, and meet quality standards.
• Identify skills, knowledge, and resources gaps and develop strategies to address them.
• Provide reports and updates to senior leadership, funders, and stakeholders on project outcomes.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of development specialists or writers.
• Ensure team members have the resources, guidance, and support to execute their roles effectively.
• Foster a collaborative and productive working environment.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, write proposals, and manage donor relationships.
• Ensure compliance with funding agreements and financial reporting requirements.
• Stay informed on best practices, trends, and innovations in capacity building, development, and program management.
• Provide support on special projects as directed.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A university degree in a related field of Social Sciences or an equivalent combination of post‑secondary education with extensive experience in direct provision to children and families is required.
• 3–5 years of management and project management experience.
• Proven ability to influence cross‑functional teams and adhere to policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills to lead and support a team environment and foster a positive workplace culture.
• Experience managing complex projects and assignments.
• Experience working with First Nations and knowledge of First Nations culture, history, treaty, and inherent rights.
• Strong awareness of the child welfare landscape, legislation, policies, laws and regulations, standards, and recent legal and regulatory developments that impact First Nations.
• Highly organized and detail‑oriented.
• Critical thinking skills, ability to multitask and manage time effectively.
• Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal communication and presentation skills.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated ability to meet tight time constraints with high‑quality work.
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office software, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Provide a criminal record and child abuse registry checks.
• Ability to work flexible hours and be able to travel upon request; and
• Possess a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the competition number, position applying for, qualifications, and resume, along with three professional references (including a most recent employer reference) by December 2, 2025 to:

Human Resources Department

Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

14th Floor, 275 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2B3

Quote Competition #2025-122 in your application.

For best results submit your application to BambooHR

https://manitobachiefs.com/about/job-opportunities/

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. No phone calls will be accepted. Incomplete and late applications will not be considered.

Preference will be given to First Nations people. If successful, applicants will be asked to verify citizenship documentation issued by a First Nation or government‑issued documentation or affirmation from the Inuit, Métis, or non‑status Indigenous community with which they identify.

Please visit our website at www.manitobachiefs.com