Title: Nexwech’ed Yetizʔin (equivalent to an Executive Director)

Reports To: Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin Board of Directors

Summary:
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation has always asserted its inherent right to self-government, including jurisdiction over its families and children. As part of this journey, Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin (“We are Tŝilhqot’in”) was created to reclaim and deliver culturally grounded family services across the Nation.

Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin is seeking to fill the role of Nexwech’ed Yetizʔin to carry out the duties of what is known in the western world as an Executive Director. The role will support the six Tŝilhqot’in communities as well as a full complement of staff at a central office. This position may be divided into multiple positions based on the skillsets and experience of those that apply. The positions will work collaboratively and in partnership for the purpose of safety and wellness of our Tŝilhqot’in families as outlined in our legislation.

The Nexwech’ed Yetizʔin (equivalent to an Executive Director) is the supportive leader responsible for the effective management, financial stewardship, and strategic growth of Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Nexwech’ed Yetizʔin ensures that services align with Tŝilhqot’in values, Nation priorities, and regulatory standards, while fostering strong partnerships with communities, governments, and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership & Vision
→  Collaborate with the Implementation Committee, Board of Directors, organizational leads, and frontline workers and guide the direction of the organization

→  Develop and implement strategic and operational plans in alignment with Tŝilhqot’in law and in collaboration with the Implementation committee and under the supervision of the Board.

→  Provide organizational leadership that supports ongoing development of Nation-driven family services.

→  Guide the implementation of Tŝilhqot’in Jurisdiction for the Nation’s families, like ‘the eagle flying over us.’

2. Cultural integrity
→  Create a Tŝilhqot’in organization based on our culture and teachings that is clearly reflected internally and in the services we provide.

→  Weave positive and relevant western teachings into a Tŝilhqot’in model for family services.

→  Navigate between levels of governments and reinforce every aspect of transition and development has a solid grounding in Tŝilhqot’in culture and law.

3. Governance & Board Support
→  Act as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors and Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin operations.

→  Provide regular, accurate, and timely reports on finances, programming, staffing, and community engagement.

→  Support the Board with policy development, strategic planning, and compliance monitoring.

4. Financial Management
→  Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring accountability and transparency.

→  Ensure compliance with all funder reporting requirements (federal, provincial, other).

→  Provide financial analysis and advice for long-term planning and risk management.

5. Human Resources Leadership
→  Lead recruitment, hiring, supervision, relationship-building and professional development of staff.

→  Establish and maintain a culturally safe, supportive, and high-performing workplace.

→  Implement performance management, succession planning, and staff wellness initiatives.

→  Ensure compliance with the Canada Labour Code and other relevant employment legislation.

7. Community and Government Relations
→  Build and maintain relationships with Tŝilhqot’in families, communities, Elders, Traditional Knowledge Keepers, and external partners (federal, provincial, municipal governments).

→  Ensure meaningful community engagement and feedback processes.

→  Represent Tŝilhqot’in Nidlin at meetings, events, and public forums.

8. Program & Service Oversight
→  Ensure delivery of high-quality, culturally informed programs and services across the Nation.

→  Monitor program standards, outcomes, and quality assurance.

→  Develop funding proposals and secure resources to sustain and expand services.

 

Qualifications:
Education:
Masters degree in Business, Social Work or Leadership. Consideration will also be given to a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Business Management, Social Work, or a related field in combination of experience. (equivalencies considered).

Experience:
→  Minimum 5 years of senior leadership or Executive Director experience, preferably in Indigenous child and family service settings.

→  Demonstrated experience in financial management, human resources, organizational development, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.

→  Proven track record of working with First Nations communities and within Indigenous governance structures.

→  Experience working in crisis or pressure situations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
→  Excellent collaboration, interpersonal and listening skills, with the ability to encourage staff to use their gifts and work as a team.

→  Strong ability to build relationships with Tŝilhqot’in families and understanding of the context of Tŝilhqot’in family services (or demonstrated willingness to learn).

→  Strong knowledge of Tŝilhqot’in culture, language, governance, and traditions (or demonstrated willingness to learn).

→  In-depth understanding of Indigenous child and family legislation (e.g., CFCSA, AOPSI, delegated agency models).

→  Flexible and responsive to feedback, with the ability to adapt to a dynamic environment.

→  Excellent organizational management skills combined with knowledge and experience in business, supervision, management, problem solving and conflict resolution.

→  Demonstrated proposal writing skills.

→  Experience in government relations, policy development, and funding negotiations.

→  Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and modern office management systems and relevant software.

→  Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English (Tŝilhqot’in language skills a strong asset).

→  High ethical standards and strict confidentiality.

Working Conditions and Expectations:
→  Must reside in, or be willing to move to, Tŝilhqot’in Nation territory (or Williams Lake area, BC).

→  Frequent travel within and outside Tŝilhqot’in Territory, including consistent visits to each of the six Tŝilhqot’in communities.

→  Occasional evening and weekend work.

→  Willing to develop a personal healing plan and/or cultural learning plan .

→  Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals.

→  Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

→  Valid BC Driver’s License required.

→  Position is subject to a six months probationary period.

→  Clean criminal records check including vulnerable sector check.

→  Preference will be given in order of applicants with Tsilhqot’in heritage, Indigenous Ancestry or current proven relationship with the nation and then to all other qualified applicants.

Salary and Benefits:
→  Dependent on experience and education: $110,000 – $165,000.

→  Moving expenses may be negotiated.

Application email: lhillis@tsilhqotin.ca