Details:
POSITION OVERVIEW
Reporting to the Director, First Nations Partnerships, the Regional Manager, First Nations Partnerships will be responsible for supporting the development of community and business partnerships with First Nations and First Nations organizations in the areas where Western operates.
The Regional Manager will be part of a team working to define a higher standard in working with First Nations communities to develop long term, mutually-beneficial relationships. The Regional Manager, First Nations Partnerships will work internally and externally to support the development and implementation of strategic protocols and approaches aligned with Western’s business interests to achieve consistent and effective engagement with Aboriginal communities. This work will support Western’s timberlands and manufacturing operations, with the ultimate goal to deliver mutual benefits built on a foundation of mutual interests.
The successful candidate will have a background in forestry or natural resource development, direct experience in working with First Nations and First Nations organizations in BC, and a demonstrated track record of building positive, mutually-beneficial relationships with external partners, including First Nations. Responsibilities of this role include managing some of Western’s business partnerships with First Nations, therefore a background in business or contract management would be an asset.
Based in our Campbell River office, this role will be best suited to a self-starting and motivated individual able to work in a busy environment, with competing priorities and limited direction.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Manage Western’s responsibilities as they relate to existing business partnerships (JV, LP) with First Nations partners, and seek to develop new business arrangements.
Work collaboratively with operational staff to understand the cultural, ecological and business interests of First Nations partners, and to work with those partners to achieve mutually-beneficial outcomes and address challenges.
Lead design and implementation of capacity building programs with First Nations partners, including identification of potential funding sources.
Lead Western’s participation in outreach activities with key communities, including community events and job fairs.
Qualifications & Experience:
Education and Experience:
University degree or diploma in natural resources or resource management sector (e.g., forestry, resource management, geography), public or business administration; communications or conflict resolution, or an equivalent combination of formal training and practical experience; and, a minimum ten years of relevant experience.
Skills, knowledge and Required Competencies:
Demonstrated experience and success in working with First Nations;
Demonstrated experience and ability to organize, manage and lead a diversity of complex projects simultaneously using accepted project management techniques, manage issues, solve strategic problems, provide leadership expertise, gain commitment, secure resources and accomplish goals.
Comprehensive understanding of the goals and perspectives of Coastal BC
First Nations and knowledge of First Nations issues as they relate to the forest sector;
Direct experience in information sharing and/or consultation with First Nations;
The capacity to work well in teams and independently;
Exceptional written and oral communications skills;
The ability to travel to First Nations communities on Vancouver Island and the Mainland Coast, the locations of which are sometimes remote.
Preference will be given to candidates with direct experience and/or education in business administration.