Economic and Community Development Officer

**Position Summary**

Seabird Island is committed to supporting sustainable economic growth and community development within a culturally safe and inclusive environment. We are dedicated to fostering initiatives that reflect and uphold Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking an Economic and Community Development Officer to advance local economic opportunities, community empowerment, and Indigenous business engagement.

The Economic and Community Development Officer will support the planning, coordination, and implementation of strategies that align with Seabird Island’s long-term economic and community development goals. The ECDO will work closely with leadership, external stakeholders, and government agencies to identify and pursue economic opportunities that reflect the values, culture, and priorities of Seabird Island. This role includes the delivery and administration of business development programs, the attraction and support of new business ventures, and the maintenance of strong relationships with existing partners and organizations engaged in business with Seabird Island. The Officer will also oversee community security initiatives and play an active role in community engagement and member support efforts.

**This is a one-year term contract with the possibility of extension.**

**What You'll Do**

**Planning and Strategy**
- Prepare annual business and work plans focused on strategic priorities.
- Facilitate, implement, and update the long-term Economic Development Strategic Plan.
- Develop multi-year budgets aligned with strategic goals.
- Assist with fulfilling economic and community development initiatives as directed by the Strategic Advisor.

**Economic Development**
- Manage economic development programs and resources.
- Act as primary contact for business partners and joint ventures.
- Develop criteria and recommendations for new projects and business proposals.
- Analyze the risks/benefits of business opportunities.
- Secure and administer funding or grants and ensure compliance reporting.
- Conduct financial analysis and net worth generation from initiatives.

**Business Engagement**
- Provide economic and business development information to interest groups, local and other levels of government and business development proponents.
- Respond to inquiries from businesses and individuals.
- Attract new businesses and investment opportunities.
- Develop and maintain strong partnerships with stakeholders, funders, and investors.
- Assist in negotiations and represent Seabird Island in economic discussions.

**Community Development & Engagement**
- Support and implement community engagement initiatives that promote economic self-sufficiency and small business development.
- Build and maintain relationships with community members to identify local development needs.
- Promote locally owned Indigenous businesses and capacity-building initiatives.

**Program Oversight and Supervision**
- Manage and direct professional service providers as required.
- Administer and monitor expenditures within approved budgets.
- Provide management and oversight of community security services to align with community safety and wellness goals.

**Reporting and Evaluation**
- Provide conclusions and recommendations for leadership decision-making.
- Prepare and present reports to leadership, partners, and funders.
- Maintain documentation for all projects, funding, and initiatives.

**Representation and Advocacy**
- Represent Seabird Island in meetings with members, the public, government agencies, funding bodies, and business stakeholders.
- Ensure that the department implements appropriate training initiatives that will enhance as well as promote member first employment and training opportunities for Seabird Island Band
- Conduct site visits to assess project outcomes and compliance with agreements.

**Other Duties**
- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

**Working / Special Conditions**
- Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
- Must possess a valid class 5 driver's license and have access to safe and reliable transportation, insured for community-based use, to effectively engage and support projects, work, and initiatives.
- Flexibility in working hours may be required, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs and schedules of events, meetings, and engagements. Employees will be given as much notice as possible to any changes in schedule.

**What You Bring**

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor’s or graduate degree in business administration, economics marketing, finance or a related field. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of ed