Chief Operating Officer

About BC First Nations Justice Council
The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) represents First Nations in BC on justice-related issues to bring about transformative change to the legal system. Created in 2015 by the BC Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, the Council has a clear mandate to challenge approaches that contribute to the growing over-representation of First Nations children and youth in the care of government and First Nations men and women in incarceration, and to productively engage with government to advance strategies that achieve better outcomes for Indigenous people in the justice system.

The BCFNJC works with First Nations to support their self-determination over justice and to advance justice system reform for all Indigenous Peoples. It provides free legal services and support to help Indigenous people in BC navigate the justice system with respect and understanding. Through the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, signed in 2020, the Council upholds self-determination, reclaims legal traditions and addresses systemic injustice to support the well-being of future generations.

Summary & Key Functions
We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (Operations Lead) to provide executive leadership for BCFNJC's operations, implementation efforts, people leadership, and service delivery. Reporting directly to the Justice Council and administratively to the Chief Executive Officer, you will work in close partnership with the CEO to turn strategic direction and Justice Council priorities into effective action across the organization, including the Indigenous Justice Centres.

You will help ensure BCFNJC has the capacity, accountability, and strong internal foundation needed to deliver on the BC First Nations Justice Strategy.

This role is ideal for a leader who is committed to the mandate and understands that the work is larger than any one organization. You will bring a practical leadership style grounded in integrity, humility, and accountability, while supporting staff through a culturally safe and trauma-informed approach. Success in this role requires sound judgement, the ability to navigate complexity, and a genuine commitment to creating conditions where people, programs, and services can thrive.

You will be a team builder who values collaboration, supports growth in others, and remains focused on the communities this work serves.

Operational Leadership & Service Delivery

Provide high-level oversight of BCFNJC’s operations, including the Indigenous Justice Centres across the province, while supporting the Director responsible for day-to-day operational leadership and service delivery.

Ensure services are delivered consistently and reflect organizational standards and Indigenous justice principles.

Ensure client-impacting programs align with the BC First Nations Justice Strategy.

Oversee workforce planning and staffing approaches across all regions.

Monitor operational performance and lead continuous improvement.

Provide direction and support to direct reports through a culturally appropriate, healing-centred approach.

Organizational Implementation & Culture

Lead implementation of priorities established by the Justice Council, with support from the CEO and in accordance with the Justice Strategy.

Foster a culturally safe and respectful workplace where staff feel included.

Oversee internal communication so teams understand organizational priorities.

Support leadership development and performance management for operational leaders.

Ensure programs are implemented in a way that reflects Indigenous justice principles.

Financial Oversight & Resource Management

Oversee operational budgets and financial controls in partnership with the…