Policy Project Manager

The swiya of the shíshálh people lies between Queens Reach in Jervis Inlet and Howe Sound on the south coast of British Columbia. Historically there were four main settlements at kalpilin (Pender Harbour), ts’unay (Deserted Bay), xenichen (Jervis Inlet) and tewankw near Porpoise Bay. shíshálh Nation is committed to innovation in program and service delivery designed to assist our members and community to achieve greater independence, wellness and self-sufficiency. Foundational to our shared work is the protection, promotion and practice of shíshálh culture, language and laws within our swiya.

The Policy Project Manager plays a key role in supporting the shíshálh Nation’s governance and administration by developing, reviewing, and analyzing policies, bylaws, procedures, and strategic frameworks. This position ensures that all policies reflect the values, laws, and self-governance priorities of the shíshálh Nation, while aligning with legal, regulatory, and intergovernmental standards.

The Candidate:

Policy Development and Analysis

- Conduct research, comparative reviews, and jurisdictional scans to support the development of governance, administrative, and shishalh Nation-specific policies.
- Draft new policies, bylaws, and procedures that reflect the cultural, legal, and operational priorities of the shíshálh Nation.
- Review and analyze existing policies and recommend updates to reflect current needs and best practices.
- Integrate shíshálh language, teachings, and traditional governance principles where appropriate by working with the Culture Department.

Staff and Stakeholder Engagement

- Consult with internal departments, Council, Elders, community members, and external partners to inform policy development, where applicable and required.
- Facilitate community engagement sessions to ensure policies are reflective of the community voice and Nation priorities, where applicable and required.
- Prepare summaries and reports for the CAO and Chief and Council decision-making.

Legislative and Regulatory Compliance

- Monitor changes to relevant federal, provincial, and Indigenous legislation and assess impacts on shíshálh Nation laws and policies.
- Ensure all policies are legally sound, enforceable, and aligned with the Nation’s self-governance agreements and Constitution.

Project Management and Coordination

Project Planning & Scoping

- Define objectives, scope, and deliverables
- Develop a work plan and timeline
- Identify stakeholders and approval processes
- Assign roles and responsibilities (RACI matrix)

Policy Audit & Gap Analysis

- Review existing policies and assess compliance
- Identify outdated, redundant, or missing policies
- Benchmark best practices and legal standards
- Assign roles and responsibilities (RACI matrix)

Monitoring & Reporting

- Track progress against timeline and milestones
- Provide regular updates to leadership or council
- Document decisions and changes

Quality Control

- Implement version control and editing standards
- Conduct internal reviews and audits
- Coordinate legal or HR review if applicable

Implementation Planning

- Coordinate rollout and training sessions
- Develop FAQs, summaries, and user guides
- Monitor compliance and track adoption

Administration, Documentation and Reporting

- Prepare briefing notes, Council reports, implementation plans, and presentation materials.
- Maintain comprehensive records of policy drafts, consultations, approvals, and revisions.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, documentation, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Note: Perform other duties within the scope of the position, as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

Education and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Indigenous Governance, Law, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in policy development, analysis, or government relations—preferably in an Indigenous governance setting.
- Experience working with or for First Nations governments is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

- Deep understanding of Indigenous governance, policy processes, and Crown-Indigenous relations.
- Knowledge of the shíshálh Nation’s governance framework, culture, language, and history or a strong willingness to learn.
- Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Ability to interpret legislation, agreements, and complex policy issues.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and document management systems.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and project coordination skills.
- Strong communication skills, including public speaking, facilitation, and writing.
- Ability to perform effectively under pressure and during crises.
- An acceptable Criminal Record Check is required.
- Valid Driver’s License and access to a reliable car.

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