Senior Advisor, Indigenous

About Pathways AlliancePathways Alliance (Pathways) is made up of Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, ConocoPhillips Canada, Imperial, MEG Energy and Suncor Energy representing about 95% of Canada’s oil sands production.The oil sands industry is a key economic driver for Alberta and Canada contributing billions to the economy annually. Our country has long benefitted from a strong energy sector that supports Canada’s high standard of living by creating thousands of jobs and generating significant revenue to governments that helps fund essential services, including health care, education, and roads.To ensure our industry is able to continue providing these benefits for decades to come, we’re also focused on advancing environmental innovation and pursuing emissions efficiencies from our oil sands operations.In 2022, Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA) became part of Pathways Alliance. Formed in 2012, COSIA is focused on collaborative action and innovation in oil sands environmental technology in four key environmental priority areas: tailings, water, land and greenhouse gases.About the OpportunityThe Senior Advisor is a critical member of the Pathways Indigenous and Community Relations (I&CR) team. The I&CR team is responsible for managing Pathways’ Social Investment, relationship building, reputation management, and assessing community issues, challenges, and opportunities. The position requires a strong understanding of the Oil Sands Industry, regulatory frameworks, and deep engagement, communication, and cultural awareness of Indigenous Rights in Canada.The Senior Advisor will analyze, research, advise on, and implement relationship strategies, managing and developing plans in support of Pathways Alliance member companies. This role also includes supporting various committee functions and projects, requiring a high degree of expertise in project management, consulting, and strategic communication.About the RoleThe Senior Advisor will report to the Director, I&CR, who leads the development of the I&CR function. While the role does not have direct reports, the Senior Advisor is expected to provide mentorship and contribute to the development of other staff members.The Senior Advisor will work closely with a dynamic group of colleagues in the I&CR team and engage directly with member-led working groups, comprising representatives selected for their expertise. The Senior Advisor will also collaborate with internal teams such as government relations, communications, and COSIA, and serve as the main contact for Pathways in the Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo area, engaging with local government, Indigenous groups, and social thought leaders.Key Responsibilities:Support and advance member priorities related to Indigenous and Community Relations, ensuring alignment with organizational /members goals and community needs.Conduct ongoing, proactive monitoring of emerging trends and issues, with a focus on regulatory developments, and provide insights for informed decision-making.Evaluate and quantify policy and regulatory risks through data analysis and impact assessments, providing strategic recommendations to member companies.Collaborate with members to implement strategies and action plans related to priorities, leveraging expert project management and consulting skills.Develop and prepare briefing materials for senior leaders and members, ensuring they are well-prepared for engagement activities and meetings with government or communities.Participate in multi-stakeholder forums on behalf of Pathways members, navigating complex negotiations and fostering collaboration to achieve effective outcome.Be a visible and accessible presence in community and represent Pathways Alliance effectively in a variety of settings: committee, public events and or workshops.Coordinate planning and delivery of member committee meetings, or external meetings, with superior record keeping and organizational skills.Lead the community and social investments portfolio, focusing on clear communication, brand recognition, and engagement. The ideal candidate will develop strategies, build relationships, and use data-driven insights to achieve program objectives and enhance our brand's impact.Skills and CompetenciesGlobal Perspective / Cultural Awareness: Skilled in understanding and integrating diverse cultural perspectives, particularly in Indigenous relations.Measurement and Analysis: Skilled in data analysis and impact assessment, with the ability to derive actionable insights from complex information.Project Management: Expert in leading and implementing projects, ensuring timely and successful completion within dynamic environments.Regulatory Understanding: Skilled in navigating and interpreting provincial and federal policies related to Indigenous Rights, including UNDRIP.Active Listening and Audience Understanding: Skilled in understanding and responding to diverse audiences, ensuring effective communication.Community Partnerships: Skilled in fostering strong community partnerships and building collaborative relationships with social thought leaders.Consulting Skills: Expert in providing strategic advice and consulting support to member companies and stakeholders.Event Planning: Skilled in organizing and executing events, meetings, and workshops that meet organizational objectives.Strategic C&SR Planning: knowledgeable in developing and implementing Corporate Social Responsibility strategies that align with organizational values.Writing and Editing: Skilled in producing clear, concise, and tailored written materials for a range of audiences.Education and ExperienceUniversity degree or related post-secondary diploma/certificate in Communications, Policy, Law, Environmental areas, or a related field.Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in social investment, community, and Indigenous Relations, preferably within the Oil Sands or Oil and Gas industry.Understanding of and experience with Indigenous and community groups, including developing and fostering strong community ties.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.Experience in self-directed work and effective collaboration with geographically dispersed teams.Experience leading and implementing projects within unstructured and changing environments.Other ConsiderationsDiverse Responsibilities: The role covers several areas, including Social Investment, Community Relations with broader municipalities, social thought leaders, and agencies.Regional Knowledge: Familiarity with the Cold Lake Oil Sands Region and the Athabasca Oil Sands Region, including understanding oil sands operations, community needs, challenges, and opportunities.Indigenous Engagement: Experience or familiarity with the process of Indigenous engagement and an understanding of formal government consultation processes.Environmental AwarenessHow to ApplyThis posting will remain open until September 5, 2024, at 4:00 PM MT. Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter to recruitment@pathwaysalliance.ca with “Senior Advisor of Indigenous and Community Relations” in the subject line. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.Pathways is an equal opportunity employer.