Director, Indigenous Relations Full-time Job

We are seeking a visionary leader with deep cultural understanding, lived expertise and strategic acumen to join our team as Director, Indigenous Relations. This role is pivotal in shaping and strengthening our relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations across British Columbia. You will lead initiatives that enhance Indigenous housing outcomes, support asset management programs, and embed cultural awareness, relationships and respect into our corporate strategies.

As a senior leader, you will collaborate across departments and with external partners to develop frameworks, policies, and training programs that support meaningful engagement with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Your work will directly influence the planning and delivery of housing programs, capital projects, and sustainability initiatives that improve the quality of life for Indigenous communities.

Key Responsibilities

Indigenous Relations

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Indigenous communities, organizations, and institutions.
• Lead consultations with First Nations regarding the delivery of housing programs and services.
• Develop corporate goals and strategies to enhance Indigenous partnerships and engagement.
• Support staff training and cultural competency development.
• Monitor trends, regulations, and legal matters affecting Indigenous relations and prepare briefings for senior leadership.
• Represent the organization in government and community initiatives related to Indigenous housing.

Indigenous Asset Management

• Lead strategic asset management initiatives in collaboration with Indigenous groups, including capital planning, maintenance, and energy management.
• Facilitate regular meetings with First Nation leaders and steering committees to track progress and adapt programming.
• Develop and implement capacity-building programs, including training plans, templates, and standards for asset management.
• Provide expert advice on capital investment strategies and program delivery.
• Supervise a team of staff, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Participate in recruitment, performance management, and resource planning.
• Represent the organization in industry bodies related to building design, construction, and maintenance.

 You bring to the role:

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, Indigenous relations, public policy, or a related field.
• Extensive experience working with Indigenous groups in asset management, consultation, engagement, and community development.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale capital projects and housing initiatives.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training, professional experience, and lived/living expertise. 
• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, leadership structures, and housing needs.
• Expertise in asset management frameworks, capital planning, and sustainability.
• Strong knowledge of building codes, design principles, and construction practices.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strategic planning and organizational leadership abilities.
• Ability to foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders and partners.
• Commitment to reconciliation, equity, and cultural respect.
• Willingness to travel periodically.

BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation that develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidized housing options for those most in need across the province to address critical gaps across the housing continuum ranging from emergency shelter through to rent assistance in the private market and affordable home ownership. Share in the rewards of working with an organization that offers challenging work and competitive compensation and supports the growth and development of its people.
Our mission is to provide access to safe, quality, accessible, and affordable housing options. We do this to promote strong, inclusive communities where people can thrive.
BC Housing offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. But a job is more than a pay cheque. We also offer our staff the opportunity to work together to make a difference. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing theyve helped provide safe, affordable housing for British Columbians. And while theyre here, employees can take advantage of many opportunities:
In-house training, and training at other institutions, for courses related to employees current positions or to prepare them for advancement within BC Housing.
Wellness programs including physical fitness, programs to help employees quit smoking, free flu shots, mental health resources, and lunch-and-learn lectures and seminars.
Recognition programs including long-term service awards, idea recognition and outstanding performance awards.
Livegreen incentives include an employee transit pass program, and other initiatives that encourage alternative, sustainable transportation (even a bike purchase program!).
An active Social Club that organizes special events like seasonal parties and arranges group discounts to other events.
Participation in community and charitable events.