Government Relations Manager

Who We Are

The Mikisew Cree First Nation (Mikisew) has lived on the ancestral lands of the Athabasca Delta and Wood Buffalo National Park in northeastern Alberta since time immemorial. The lives of our members are linked to the land and to a close understanding of traditions, history and a natural way of life. Many of our members live in the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, and our traditional lands range over a large portion of Athabasca oil sands.

Are you interested in joining our Mikisew Government Industry Relations Department (GIR)? Our Mikisew GIR department is directed by the MCFN Leadership and acts as a liaison between resource developers, operators, government agencies and the community. The Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN) Government & Industry Relations (GIR) office is a leading-edge office with several key initiatives underway such as the Wood Buffalo Nation Park – United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Action Plan , Alberta’s Lower Athabasca Regional Plan (LARP) 10 year review and Federal Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination processes and developing shared governance and co-management options for parks and places of interest to the MCFN. Alongside these key initiatives, the MCFN GIR undertakes review and formal consultation on several Federal, Provincial and Municipal legislation and policy review processes engaging with all levels of government and with multi-departmental formal consultations.

Who You Are

Reporting to the Director of GIR, the government relations manager is a motivated and multi-task orientated individual who is flexible and works well in a team environment. The Government Relations Manager is responsible for the development, review, coordination and implementation of all aspects of consultation related to Government initiated projects and proposals.

This position is based in Fort McMurray, AB

Roles & Responsibilities

• Development and implementation of annual plans for the effective delivery of all matters relating to consultation proposals from government
• Development of Government Legislation Catalogue to support the GIR in all aspects of operations toward full understanding of Government Policy and statute influencing consultation.
• The development of policies, procedures and processes that maximize both efficiency and the achievement of desired outcomes relating to the government consultation proposals.
• Contributing as a member of the GIR leadership team to the development and delivery of GIR’s strategy and annual planning process.
• Leading the government team, including technical consultants to deliver agreed outcomes (quality/timeliness/cost) for consultation proposals
• Leading and developing the team to ensure the talent and capabilities are in place to deliver great performance.
• Management of financial resources relating to the team’s activities including annual budgeting, monthly reporting and delivering of commitments within allocated resources.
• Monitoring of existing projects, including environment issues, identifying relevant concerns and ensuring that performance problems are addressed in a timely and appropriate manner.
• Effective Implementation of the regulatory review process relating to government-initiated projects and proposals.
• Implementing Indigenous Knowledge plans to ensure all relevant information is captured and is incorporated into relevant government projects and planning processes and that MCFN members traditional ways of life are protected.
• Represent MCFN at external meetings, forums and workshops as assigned, or required in the performance of Manager responsibilities.
• Develop an action plan for activities and procedures in the interest of MCFN.
• Assist in developing annual budgets and report monthly to the Director and Chief and Council.
• Perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with policies, standards, protocols and procedures of the MCFN as directed by the Director.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as necessary in the performance of the position, and as assigned by the Director.
• Contribute effectively as a team member to the overall plans and objectives of MCFN.
• Contribute to the GIR team to include responsibility for: o Assisting the Director by contributing to the development of the annual GIR strategic plan.
• Working cooperatively and effectively with MCFN staff members.
• Participating in all applicable initiatives, workshops, conferences and meetings.
• Contributing to MCFN communication strategies and activities such as news bulletins, newsletters and the MCFN website.
• Educate and advise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Business Administration, Communications or related field of study.
• At least 6-8 years’ experience working in regulatory or consultation with Indigenous communities, Industry or Government.
• Experience working in Indigenous communities and a demonstrated in-depth knowledge of Indigenous worldviews, cultural practices and protocols.
• Proven experience of working with and knowledge of legislation, regulations and policies that pertain directly to regional, provincial and federal regulatory processes.
• Proven experience anticipating and identifying the need for policy and/or policy revision.
• Exemplary oral and written communication skills in presenting clear and concise findings for decision makers.
• Ability to write a variety of proposals, policy and procedure drafts, reports and other documentation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, persuasion and consensus-building skills with the ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and manage shifting priorities to produce results within deadlines.
• Demonstrated project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling and resource management.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong active listening skills.
• Proven planning, prioritizing, organizing and coordination skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain successful and effective relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts.
• Has an understanding of Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN) culture, demonstrates cultural competency and sensitivity towards MCFN cultural traditions with the ability to use sound judgement and diplomacy in high stress/conflict situations.
• Demonstrated adaptable skills with the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Advanced computer skills and use of MS Office, Adobe Acrobat and statistics/data analysis software.
• Proven ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Valid Driver’s License.

How to Apply

If you feel you have the demonstrated background and you meet the qualifications as listed above and are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity, please submit a cover letter, current resume with dates specified, a photocopy of education [diploma/certificate].

hr@mikisewcree.ca

Application deadline is until a suitable candidate is found.

All applications will be reviewed, although only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Mikisew Cree First Nation is committed to equal opportunity employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Final candidates for this position will be required to complete a security screening, which includes a criminal background check.

kinanâskomitin (Thank you) for your interest.