General Manager

Who We Are

Smelqmix Investments Ltd. is the economic development corporation of the Lower Similkameen Indian Band (LSIB). We lead and oversee business ventures that advance the Nation’s long‑term prosperity, strengthen community well‑being, and create sustainable economic growth. Guided by Silyx values, we focus on responsible development, meaningful partnerships, and opportunities that support the Nation’s vision for self‑determination.

Our work is grounded in respect, accountability, and relationship‑building—within the community, with industry, with funders, and across all levels of government. We are a small, dedicated team committed to developing strong businesses that reflect the interests and aspirations of the Smelqmix people.

If you are motivated by Nation‑building, economic growth, and community‑centered leadership, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

Smelqmix Investments Ltd. is seeking an experienced and strategic General Manager to lead the organization’s operations, economic development projects, and business growth initiatives. Reporting directly to the Chari and/or Vice Chair of the board, the General Manager provides the vision, leadership, and operational oversight necessary to fulfill Smelqmix Investments’ mandate.

This role is ideal for a relationship‑driven, strategic thinker who thrives in a small team environment, enjoys building partnerships, and is passionate about supporting Indigenous economic development.

Key Responsibilities

Governance & Board Relations

- Serve as the principal liaison to the Board of Directors.

- Implement strategic directives set by the Board and lead the execution of the Community Economic Development Plan.

- Provide well‑researched recommendations on investment opportunities that promote sustainable business growth, community development, and profitability.

- Prepare and manage budgets for new and ongoing development projects, securing Board approval.

- Prepare monthly and quarterly reports for stakeholders as outlined in governance agreements.

Business Strategy & Operations

- Develop and implement business strategies aligned with both short‑ and long‑term goals.

- Oversee day‑to‑day operations to ensure efficiency, compliance, and alignment with the organization’s mission.

- Review financial and operational reports, identifying issues and proposing solutions.

- Maintain a strong working knowledge of industry trends and economic development opportunities.

- Analyze information, assess risk, and make informed decisions to support organizational stability and growth.

- Identify, assess, and mitigate financial, operational, and partnership risks to protect organizational stability and advance strategic goals.

- Ensure compliance with all funding agreements, legal requirements, and corporate policies to support transparent and accountable operations.

Leadership & Organizational Development

- Lead and mentor a small team (1–3 employees), fostering a positive and engaged workplace culture.

- Collaborate closely with finance staff to meet the Board’s fiscal objectives.

- Ensure compliance with internal policies and legal obligations to support ethical and accountable operations.

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

- Build strong, neutral, and respectful relationships with community members, government partners, and industry stakeholders.

- Develop communication materials and workshops to keep LSIB members informed about economic development opportunities.

- Represent Smelqmix Investments at community events and act as a key point of contact for major partners and shareholders.

Administration

- Participate in and oversee all administrative functions in a small team setting.

- Create, track, and monitor organizational and project budgets.

- Research and resolve financial variances; implement corrective measures when necessary.

- Seek, secure, and manage funding opportunities that support community‑driven economic development.

- Prepare timely, accurate funder reports and maintain accountable partner relationships.

- Produce high‑quality correspondence and documentation for internal, community, board, funder, and government audiences.

- Leverage, develop, and nurture relationships with ISC, funders, government agencies, and other bodies to support project development, investment opportunities, and long‑term economic growth for the Nation.

Other duties as required.

Qualifications & Skills

Critical Skills

- Ability to build and maintain strong relationships, particularly with Indigenous communities.

- High level of initiative, independence, and self‑direction.

- Strong written and verbal communication skills.

- Experience with research, report writing, marketing, public speaking, and economic/project management.

- Excellent analytical ability, attention to detail, and organization.

- Professional, approachable, and collaborative leadership style.

- Skilled in conflict resolution, diplomacy, and confidentiality.

- Ability to solve problems creatively and navigate sensitive situations.

Foundational Knowledge & Experience

- Experience working with Indigenous communities and knowledge of issues impacting Indigenous‑owned businesses.

- Bachelor’s degree or MBA in Business Administration (or related field).

- Minimum 10 years’ experience in economic and business development.

- Strong background in project management, financial reporting, costing, investment analysis, and ROI assessment.

- Experience managing ISC funding and adhering to reporting guidelines.

- Understanding of corporate governance and general management principles.

- Valid BC Class 5 driver’s license and reliable vehicle.

- Proficiency with Microsoft 365, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and virtual meeting platforms.

What we offer

- An opportunity to work with like‑minded people and do meaningful, community‑focused work.

- A pay range of $90,000 to $100,000 per annum.

- 3 weeks vacation to start.

- A Healthy Benefits Plan and generous matched Pension Plan.

- Additional paid time off over the festive season, plus sick and personal leave.

- Learning and development opportunities.

- Participation in community events and festivities.

To Express Interest

Interested candidates are invited to submit cover letter and resume to:

https://app.loxo.co/job/MzA5MjEtcXk3YmdlOTBtb3Q4dGNjaw==?t=1765306847464

The successful candidate will be asked to provide references, proof of education, and a clear, vulnerable sector criminal records check. We encourage applicants to submit applications as soon as possible, as applicants will be reviewed continuously. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Persons of Indigenous ancestry will be given preference. s16(1) CHRA.

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