Sakitawak Program Director

**POSITION TITLE**: Sakitawak Program Director

**DEPARTMENT**: MN-S Ministry of Lands and Environment

**CLASSIFICATION**: MGO-08

**SALARY RANGE**: $86,700.00 - $103,615.00 Per Annum

**POSITION TYPE**:Full-time, 22-Month Contract

**LOCATION**:Île-à-la-Crosse/ Remote

**ACCOUNTABLE TO**: ICS4 Governance Board and MN-S Director of Environment

**Brief Overview**:
Located in the pristine boreal forest of Northern Saskatchewan, the Sakitawak Conservation Area Project is a Métis lead Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) proposal that seeks to protect habitats of vulnerable species by promoting sustainable development practices, advance Indigenous ways of life, identify knowledge systems, and implement stewardship activities. The project is based in Île-à-la-Crosse Saskatchewan.

The project is an agreement between the A La Baie Métis Local 21, Métis Nation -Saskatchewan, and Environment and Climate Change Canada. The project’s governance board, the ICS4, is composed of representatives from the Métis, the village of Île-à-la-Crosse, the fisherman’s cooperative, and the N-14 trapper’s association.

Reporting to the ICS4 Governance Board, and with general oversight from the MN-S Director of Environment, the Sakitawak Program Director is responsible for managing and overseeing all the activities and staff related to the Program.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Provide regular briefings to the ICS4 board and the MN-S Director of Environment
- Work collaboratively with the Board and Environment Director to develop the
- Project workplan and develop long-term planning.
- Oversee the implementation of the work plan and continuously monitor progress.
- Work with staff to develop project level and individual level work plans.
- Support, motivate, and encourage staff and team members to achieve the project’s goals and strategic outcomes and complete work plan objectives.
- Seek out new program funding sources and business opportunities.
- Develop relationships with various rights holders including local First Nations and other Métis Locals
- Develop relationships with various stakeholders including municipalities, environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGO’s), forestry companies, and federal and provincial agencies.
- Develop, manage, and oversee the Project budget.
- Provide information, reports, and advice to the ICS4 board Director of Environment as required.
- Provide technical and policy support in relation to major projects on MN-S traditional lands, environmental laws & regulations, climate change, and natural resources to other MN-S ministries and departments.
- Oversee financial and outcome reporting for all activities associated with the Project.
- Collaborate with other directors, Ministries, and departments to find innovative ways to address Métis Nation-Saskatchewan’s strategic priorities and improve the lives of Métis citizens.
- Establish and maintain positive relationships with co-workers, internal and external clients, industry, and governments.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in environment, sustainability, natural sciences, earth sciences, or a relevant field is considered an asset.
- 5 years’ experience in a management role with team management responsibilities
- Experience working with industry and legislative authorities.
- Previous experience in environmental program development and implementation.
- Expert knowledge of technical environmental issues including mining and forestry related impacts, water management, habitat protection, and regulatory compliance/reporting is required.
- Experience may be considered in lieu of education.

**Knowledge and Skills**:

- Knowledge of Métis culture and northern communities
- Proven ability to effectively manage a team.
- Ability to work as a team.
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills
- Ability to work remotely.
- Ability to manage project budgets.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

**Additional Requirements**:

- The position is based on a 37.5-hour work week Monday through Friday and includes a comprehensive total rewards package.
- Travel and working outside of normal business hours (including weekends) may be required 2-3x per month.
- A valid Saskatchewan driver’s license and access to reliable transportation would be required.
- All applicants must be able to work remotely in a secure location maintaining client confidentiality.