Supervisor, Indigenous Relations

**Branch: Indigenous Relations**

**Number of Positions Open: 1**

Looking for a career with a dynamic organization that is committed to protecting wildlife? We are interested in dedicated individuals who are positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about connecting people, animals, and conservation science to fight extinction. Your Toronto Zoo makes animal well-being a priority in all operations and shows respect for all wildlife.

**Basic Function**:
The Supervisor, Indigenous Relations is responsible for supporting the Toronto Zoo’s Indigenous Relations programs and initiatives and overall Toronto Zoo Strategic Plan through leading projects and supervising interns and grant funded staff working in the Indigenous Relations office.

This role’s areas of focus include working closely with First Nations and urban Indigenous partners to: connect traditional ecological knowledge with the Zoo’s conservation and wildlife science initiatives, develop learning programs for Indigenous children and youth, identify opportunities for integrating traditional knowledge and stories into the Zoo’s habitats and interpretive elements, identify opportunities for growing traditional plants and other economic development opportunities for Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. This position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan as outlined above.

**Responsibilities**:

- Develop and lead programs and initiatives both onsite and in the community that promote:

- Two-eyed seeing” in the Zoo’s conservation initiatives
- Access and connections to land, water, and animals in our care for Indigenous People
- Telling the stories of culturally significant animals
- Indigenous languages and artistic expression
- Co-development with Indigenous partners
- Supervise, direct, and provide leadership to Indigenous Relations staff and interns.
- Collaborate with Zoo staff in various departments to develop and implement programs and initiatives, with a particular focus on the Zoo’s Wildlife Science department including Species Recovery and Wildlife Planning/Conservation branches.
- Identify opportunities for learning and engagement events for our guests/community and Zoo staff.
- Develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with First Nations, urban Indigenous partners, knowledge keepers and Elders.
- Ensure project work is conducted in a manner that respects cultural and community needs and avoids a pan-Indigenous approach.
- Organize and lead talking circles and other engagement opportunities with Indigenous partners, including the Toronto Zoo’s Indigenous Advisory Circle.
- Conduct jurisdictional and other background research and write reports.
- Deliver presentations to various groups, including Toronto Zoo staff and senior management, community partners and partner institutions.
- Other related duties as requested by the Director.

**Qualifications**:

- A post-secondary degree in environmental science, Indigenous studies, biology, or a related field or the equivalent amount of training and related experience.
- Must have 3-5 years progressive related experience (5 years preferred), including 1 year demonstrated experience providing leadership. Traditional land-based knowledge and direct experience working in Indigenous communities will be considered in combination with the academic requirements.
- At least three years of experience leading projects through all stages.
- Experience supervising and providing leadership to staff or interns.
- Experience in a unionized environment preferred.
- Must be familiar with “two-eyed seeing” (the complimentary approaches of western science and traditional knowledge) as it relates to conservation.
- An understanding of the principles of OCAP (First Nations’ ownership, control, access, and possession of data) would be an asset.
- Proven and sound research skills.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills along with strong communication skills. Ability to effectively communicate and listen with patience, kindness, and respect.
- Be highly motivated and initiate and carry out tasks/projects with mínimal supervision.
- Must have a demonstrated ability to lead and supervise.
- Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including Microsoft Office 365
- Strong organizational skills, ability to manage priorities and autonomy.
- Be able to think holistically and work cooperatively with different areas of the Zoo, Zoo partners and community members.
- Lived experience as a First Nations, Inuit, or Metis person.
- Awareness of cultural protocols in Indigenous communities in Ontario.
- Knowledge of the different Indigenous communities in Ontario, including local Indigenous rights and treaties.
- Must be willing and able to work occasional weekends or evenings as required. This position may also involve some travel to meet with Indigenous partners in their communities.
- Must have a working knowledge of the Ontario Occupational Health