Economic Development Director

Closing Date: September 24,2025
- Location: Kwakiutl Admin Office
- Wage: $80,000 - $100,100

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The Economic Development Director (EDD) leads the strategic advancement of economic development initiatives for the Kwakiutl First Nation (KFN). Guided by Kwakiutl law (_p̓asa_), cultural protocols, and community-defined priorities, the EDD will identify and implement revenue generation, employment, and business development opportunities that support sustainable growth and intergenerational prosperity.

Kwakiutl First Nation is a self-governing Nation actively advancing its inherent rights through the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and the Nation’s own governance structures and protocols. Kwakiutl protocol is rooted in the governance systems and reflects ancestral responsibilities to land, water, and future generations.

Reporting to the Senior Administrator and working closely with Chief & Council, Hereditary Leadership, and the Heritage Trust Board, the EDD integrates culturally grounded approaches in all interactions—supporting dignity and self-determination for the Kwakiutl people.

The EDD also supports entrepreneurial pursuits led by members and the Nation, and collaborates with internal departments—including Forestry, Lands, Fisheries, Culture, and Communications—to align economic activities with holistic Nation-building priorities.

This is a full-time position with the option for a hybrid work arrangement, including remote workdays and in-person presence in Fort Rupert for key meetings with leadership and community engagement.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**

**Strategic Leadership & Planning**
- Lead the design and implementation of the Nation’s Economic Development Strategy in alignment with the Kwakiutl Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP), Land Use Plan, Title Declaration, and evolving governance frameworks.
- Embed culturally safe, and community-centered practices in all economic planning and engagement.
- Identify strategic economic opportunities across sectors such as tourism, fisheries, forestry, land development, and clean energy.
- Support entrepreneurial pursuits that foster self-sufficiency, innovation, and Nation-owned or member-led business growth.

**Partnership & Business Development**
- Build and maintain partnerships with industry, government, and investors to advance Nation-owned or joint ventures.
- Ensure all agreements uphold Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) through equitable partnership, capacity building, economic benefits, and shared decision-making.
- Negotiate funding, leases, licensing, and business contracts in alignment with KFN values and jurisdiction. Ensuring direction is rooted in the governance systems and reflects ancestral responsibilities to land, water, and future generations.

**Community Engagement & Cultural Integration**
- Support inclusive, respectful engagement with Elders, youth, Hereditary Leaders, and off-reserve members.
- Collaborate with the Language & Culture Department to incorporate Kwak̓wala names, stories, and cultural elements into economic initiatives and branding.
- Promote practices that prioritize intergenerational resilience and community well-being.

**Governance, Reporting & Policy Development**
- Develop and implement policies and protocols for KFN’s economic governance and accountability.
- Report regularly to Chief & Council, the Trust Board, and community members.
- Support community capacity building, leadership mentorship, and succession planning in economic governance.
- Collaborate with internal teams in Forestry, Lands, Fisheries, Culture, and Communications to ensure economic development strategies are integrated across departments and reflect shared Nation priorities.

**Project Management**
- Manage project lifecycles, including feasibility, design, budgeting, implementation, and evaluation.
- Support infrastructure and asset development in alignment with community-led plans, traditional stewardship responsibilities, and environmental law.
- Provide technical assistance and business advisory services to member-owned businesses, start-ups, and community entrepreneurs.

**Financial Oversight**
- Prepare and monitor departmental and project budgets; ensure reporting and compliance with funding agreements.
- Maintain financial oversight of revenue-generating projects and Nation-owned business entities.
- Coordinate with legal and financial advisors on risk management, due diligence, and corporate structuring.

**QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES**

**Required**
- Post-secondary degree or diploma in Economic Development, Business Administration, Indigenous Governance, or a related field; a combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in Indigenous economic development, project management, or strategic partnerships.
- Deep understanding of Aboriginal Title, Trea