Sustainability Lead

Sacred Waters Developments; Burnaby; Hybrid; CAD 109,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Sacred Waters Developments seeks a Sustainability Lead to enhance economic and social outcomes for the KKS Nations. This role involves developing sustainability strategies, managing consultant teams, and ensuring compliance with high standards of sustainability. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's in a relevant field and significant experience in sustainability or ESG initiatives within Indigenous communities.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunities for career advancement

Dynamic and innovative work environment

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in sustainability or ESG.
• Familiarity with sustainability reporting frameworks.
• Ability to manage and direct consultant teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sustainability strategies aligned with SWD goals.
• Conduct assessments and audits for improvement.
• Prepare and present reports on sustainability initiatives.

Skills

Data analysis

Project management

Community engagement

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental studies, sustainability, or related discipline

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Position:Full-time, 40 hours/week, Hybrid

Reports to:Director, Planning & Sustainability

Location:Metro Vancouver, BC

Career Level: P3 (Professional)

Sacred Waters Developments Overview

Sacred Waters Developments (SWD) is an economic development corporation jointly owned by Katzie, Kwantlen, and Semiahmoo (KKS) Nations with a mandate to catalyze opportunities for economic and social growth within the shared traditional territories. Through SWD, the Nations are taking leadership in the acquisition and development of lands within the shared traditional territories by identifying opportunities and bringing together strategic partnerships with industry stakeholders to deliver meaningful projects that will drive intergenerational prosperity for the KKS Nations. This foundational and transformational work is being done with specific intention and attention on capacity building through the creation of opportunities for KKS Nation members and incorporating principles of sustainability and stewardship into all aspects of our work.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate for the Sustainability Lead role at Sacred Waters Developments (SWD) is a forward-thinking and dedicated professional with a deep understanding of sustainability and ESG principles. This individual has the ability to support organizational planning and strategy setting, while also being adept at developing and implementing sustainability programs that align with organizational goals. They bring a proven track record of leading initiatives that drive meaningful impact. They possess strong data analysis skills, enabling them to assess and report on the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives.

The ideal candidate is also a skilled project manager, capable of overseeing consultant teams and ensuring projects meet high standards of sustainability compliance. With excellent communication skills, they can effectively advocate for sustainability both within SWD and in the broader community. Experience working with First Nations or Indigenous communities, coupled with a background in a social purpose organization, would make them particularly well-suited for this role.

Role Summary

SWD has a mandate to catalyze economic and social outcomes for our shareholder Nations. As a member of the SWD Planning & Sustainability team, the Sustainability Lead will be responsible for helping to set the strategy for potential initiatives to further enhance the impact of SWD in the shared territories of the KKS Nations. Monitoring and reporting on the effectiveness of these initiatives in enhancing SWD’s impact will also be a key part of this role.

Responsibilities

• Shape the strategic direction for Sacred Waters’ sustainability program, including direct engagement with shareholders to confirm alignment with KKS Nation priorities.
• Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors and the senior leadership team to develop and implement the inaugural work plan for Sacred Waters’ sustainability program, and support updates to the work plan, as required.
• Develop and implement fit-for-purpose sustainability strategies and initiatives that are aligned with SWD’s goals and objectives, including programs addressing environmental, socio-economic and governance outcomes for SWD and the KKS Nations
• Lead the creation of data collection frameworks and facilitate data gathering across SWD’s project portfolio, including liaising with contractors, consultants, and sub-consultants to collect sustainability and social performance data.
• Conduct assessments and audits of SWD business practices to identify areas for improvement and lead implementation of leading practices across SWD’s business
• Provide coaching, guidance and support to departments within SWD to integrate sustainability practices into daily operations and SWD projects
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and emerging technologies related to sustainability
• Conduct sustainability training and awareness programs for SWD employees to promote a culture of sustainability within the organization
• Prepare and present reports on sustainability initiatives, progress, and outcomes to senior management, external partners, shareholders, and the Board of Directors
• Act as an advocate for sustainability, raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices both internally and externally
• Write grant applications and proposals to secure funding for sustainability initiatives.
• Provide writing, research, and the preparation of visual materials for presentation to internal staff and external parties
• Conduct due diligence reviewed into SWD projects to ensure project compliance with corporate standards.
• Direct and oversee consultant teams, including administration of consultant contracts.
• Provide oversight to interns, co-op students, or youth job shadowing programs, as required.
  
  

This role is expected to be dynamic in-nature and evolve alongside SWD. As such, other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in environmental studies, sustainability, urban planning, communications, public policy, or a related discipline plus a minimum of 8 years’ experience in a related field. An equivalent combination of training, education, and experience will also be considered
• Familiarity with sustainability reporting frameworks (e.g., CDP, GRI, SASB) and experience applying these frameworks.
• Experience developing sustainability or ESG policies, directives, or initiatives for an organization, and leading their rollout.
• Community engagement and group facilitation experience
• Experience and/or training in project management practices.
• Experience managing and directing consultant teams (e.g., budget management, invoice tracking, progress tracking).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with an ability to adapt communication style to suit a variety of audiences.
• Proficient in MS Office software (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• A valid driver’s license is required
  
  

The following will be considered an asset:

• Experience working with First Nations and/or Indigenous communities.
• Previous experience in a social purpose organization or social impact-related role.
• Data analysis and financial modeling experience, including quantitative scenario analysis and business case development.
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
  
  

Why Join Us:

• Growth Opportunities: Be part of a growing company with opportunities for career advancement. As SWD grows, this role is expected to evolve into a management-level position with direct reports and broader leadership responsibilities
• Innovative Environment: Work in a dynamic and innovative environment where your contributions make a real impact
• Competitive Compensation: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package. Salary: $109,000 to $130,000/year based on experience, vacation, paid-time off days, health and dental benefits including a health spending account, wellness programs, and paid professional development
  
  

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience. Please apply by July 13, 2025.

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, we will only be contacting those applicants selected to proceed to an interview.

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