Please note: While applications are currently being accepted for this position, active recruitment and candidate screening are expected to begin in approximately 3–4 weeks as the organization transitions into new leadership. We appreciate your patience and interest in joining our team.:
Director of Economic Development:
Role Profile
ABOUT LNIB
The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) is a vibrant and growing First Nations community in British Columbia, committed to the well-being, culture, and prosperity of its members. LNIB provides a wide range of programs and services including health, education, social development, governance, and economic development initiatives.
We value innovation, collaboration, and respect for our traditions, and we are dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and safe work environment for all employees. LNIB follows Indigenous governance principles and prioritizes community engagement, cultural knowledge, and sustainable development in all its operations.
Join LNIB and be part of a team that is making a meaningful impact in the community while contributing to a dynamic and culturally rich workplace.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director of Economic Development provides leadership and direction in advancing economic growth, land stewardship, and sustainable development for the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB). Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is responsible for planning, managing, and supporting initiatives that promote employment, business creation, revenue streams, and long-term economic opportunities for LNIB Members.
The Director works closely with Chief & Council, LNIB staff, and the Community Economic Development Committee to assess opportunities, develop business plans, pursue funding, protect natural resources, and guide major projects from concept to completion. This role also promotes orderly land use and ensures LNIB’s economic decisions align with cultural values, community goals, and long-term land stewardship.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLANNING & GROWTH
o Lead the planning, development, and implementation of economic development strategies and initiatives.
o Identify, research, and assess new business and economic opportunities.
o Prepare business plans, feasibility studies, and project proposals for Chief & Council consideration.
o Develop short- and long-term strategies for job creation, revenue generation, and community economic resilience.
o Support the creation of a five-year community needs assessment and annual physical development plan.
o Ensure economic development aligns with community values, natural resource protection, and LNIB’s long-term interests.
- LANDS & NATURAL RESOURCE STEWARDSHIP
o Promote responsible, orderly, and sustainable economic development on LNIB lands.
o Ensure economic development activities protect natural resources and respect community land priorities.
o Work collaboratively with internal departments to align land use, infrastructure planning, and development goals.
o Monitor projects to ensure compliance with LNIB policies, values, and land management practices.
- PROJECT MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS
o Manage major economic development projects from idea generation through initiation, funding, implementation, and completion.
o Oversee the monitoring and evaluation of LNIB ventures, projects, and partnerships.
o Maintain centralized economic data and information tools such as community fact sheets, trade directories, demographic profiles, and marketing materials.
o Prepare monthly and annual reports on LNIB economic ventures and initiatives.
o Provide business advisory support to LNIB Members and entrepreneurs.
- FUNDING, PARTNERSHIPS & BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS
o Prepare funding proposals and negotiate funding agreements with agencies including Indigenous Services Canada, provincial ministries, and other partners.
o Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and industry stakeholders.
o Represent LNIB in economic and land development discussions, negotiations, and committees.
o Explore and secure external funding sources to support business creation and economic initiatives.
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & COMMUNITY
o Promote awareness of economic development opportunities, programs, and services.
o Communicate regularly with LNIB Members, including contributions to LNIB newsletters and updates.
o Respond to economic development inquiries from community members, partners, and interested parties.
o Refer community members to additional resources when needed.
- TEAM LEADERSHIP & SUPERVISION
o Provide direct or indirect supervision to staff within the Economic Development department.
o Support a collaborative team environment aligned with LNIB goals and priorities.
o Identify training needs and support capacity building for staff.
o Ensure staffing levels and departmental functions comply with LNIB policies.
o Participate on administrative boards as directed by the Executive Director or Chief & Council.
o Perform all responsibilities in accordance with LNIB policies, procedures, and governance standards.
o Perform additional related duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
- Solid analytical skills for project evaluation, program design, and feasibility assessment.
- Knowledge of economic development principles, land use planning, and natural resource considerations.
- Ability to collaborate with external agencies, industry partners, and other organizations.
- High-level communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
- Comfortable presenting to Council, committees, partners, and the community.
- Ability to speak or willingness to learn the Nlaka’pamux language is preferred.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Two-year certificate in Business Administration or related field; or
- Combination of education and direct experience in economic development, business planning, or land management.
- Experience with community economic development is an asset.
- Experience working with First Nations communities and government funding programs is preferred.
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WORKING CONDITIONS
- Office-based environment with frequent deadlines and shifting priorities.
- Overtime may be required to meet deadlines, respond to opportunities, or support major projects.
- Some travel for meetings, conferences, or project work.
- Must maintain a clear Criminal Record Check.
PREFERENCE
The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) follows Section 25 of the Human Rights Code, giving preference to Indigenous applicants where applicable.
