Senior Lead, Indigenous Relations

Responsibilities

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Participates as a team member to provide input and implement the overall Indigenous Relations program for the enterprise based on the values of the Indigenous Relations Vision Statement and Guiding Principles. Manages and leads Indigenous consultation and engagement grounded in evolving best practices, on a number of diverse and complex projects and a broad range of strategic initiatives to successful completion while developing long-term mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Builds strong working relationships with enterprise staff to provide expert advice for better understanding of Indigenous history, culture, opportunities, and concerns to influence and promote inclusivity of Indigenous communities in our work.

Primarily focuses on management and leading a number of complex and high-risk projects throughout the project lifecycle involving Indigenous consultation and engagement strategies and plans, grounded in evolving best practices to advance reconciliation. Work collaboratively with Indigenous Relations team members and staff from multiple departments to assess impacts and assist in developing environmental mitigation and monitoring programs.

Develops and implements Indigenous Relations initiatives, policies, and procedures to be inclusive of Indigenous communities within enterprise work and fulfil Trans Link’s Reconciliation Action Plan and the Regional Transportation Strategy.

Leads trusting, strategic relationships through open dialogue with Indigenous communities to advance reconciliation while contributing to enterprise business goals.

Meets regularly to lead and facilitate consultation and engagement for programs, initiatives, and projects with Indigenous communities, including meetings and presentations with Indigenous leadership, staff, small group, and community meetings.

Develops Indigenous plans for the project life-cycle stages including scope, budget, schedule, funding agreements, procurement opportunities, studies, field monitoring and reporting.

Plans and coordinates fulfillment of legal, regulatory, and funding requirements for consultation and engagement by tracking and responding to Indigenous issues and interests. Provides oversight and support for the implementation of agreements to meet commitments with Indigenous communities.

Monitors the work of third-party contractors and consultants on behalf of Trans Link, including contract administration.

Works with HR and unions to increase Indigenous representation within the enterprise by reviewing staff hiring processes to identify and remove systemic barriers.

Produces updates, reports, and briefing notes including sensitive or confidential material. Presentations for senior leadership inclusive of the Trans Link Board of Directors, Mayors’ Council, and committees/working groups.

Assists with planning and organization for Indigenous events, celebrations and community engagement with enterprise staff and Indigenous Peoples.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

The competencies for this position are acquired through successful completion of a university degree in a related field plus a minimum of six (6) years of progressive experience in Indigenous Relations with direct consultation and/or engagement with Indigenous Communities, or equivalent experience.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Solid knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of the Indigenous Relations consultation and engagement processes and related functions with basic understanding of the transportation industry and how it may impact Indigenous Nation communities

Excellent understanding of Indigenous Relations, issues management with a demonstrated track record of positive…