Strategic Communications Advisor

Who We Are

The Mikisew Cree First Nation (Mikisew) has lived on the ancestral lands of the Athabasca Delta and Wood Buffalo National Park in northeastern Alberta since time immemorial. The lives of our members are linked to the land and to a close understanding of traditions, history, and a natural way of life. Many of our members live in the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, and our traditional lands range over a large portion of Athabasca oil sands deposits. For nearly 30 years, Mikisew Group, our wholly owned business arm, has worked toward the long-term, sustainable economic progress of our Nation and its members through employment and significant investments in education, training, social programs, and infrastructure.

Who You Are

Reporting to the Director, Public Relations, the Strategic Communications Advisor is responsible for leading internal and external communications strategies for Mikisew Cree First Nation. The ideal candidate is a proactive strategist with strong skills in messaging, storytelling, and digital and community communications. This role works closely with executive leadership, departments, and key partners to implement short- and long-term communication goals, enhance engagement with employees, clients, and stakeholders, and ensure all communications reflect the organization's values and promote transparency and credibility.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as the principal advisor to leadership (CEO, Chief and Council, and senior management) on communications scope, priorities, and long-term strategy.
• Develop and oversee a comprehensive communications framework that aligns with organizational vision, strategic goals, and community values.
• Assess and advise on the effectiveness of current communication initiatives; identify opportunities for improvement, innovation, and enhanced impact.
• Lead the design and implementation of strategies to strengthen brand positioning, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement.
• Provide strategic counsel during high-profile initiatives, community relations efforts, and crisis communications.
• Lead the creation of an integrated communications strategy encompassing social media, media relations, internal communications, and digital outreach.
• Establish standards, protocols, and best practices for consistent and effective organizational messaging.
• Direct the development and delivery of strategic content (including campaigns, public statements, community updates, and digital media, newsletter & press releases).
• Research and monitor emerging trends, technologies, and communication practices to ensure Mikisew Cree First Nation remains innovative and relevant.
• Measure and report on the success of communication strategies using analytics and performance metrics to inform decision-making.
• Strengthen internal communication systems to foster organizational alignment, employee engagement, and cultural cohesion.
• Develop approaches for transparent and effective communication between leadership, staff, and community partners.
• Cultivate relationships with media outlets, partner organizations, and community stakeholders to advance organizational objectives and enhance reputation.
• Provide guidance to departments on communication initiatives, ensuring consistent tone, branding, and strategic alignment.
• Ensure all communication activities reflect and respect Indigenous values, protocols, and perspectives.
• Support leadership in delivering messages that authentically represent the voice, priorities, and aspirations of the community.
• Promote capacity-building in communication practices within the organization by mentoring and advising team members.
• All other duties as assigned.

EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE:

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business, Strategic Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 5+ years in a communications, strategy, or advisory role, preferably in a First Nations or Indigenous organizational context.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing organization-wide communications strategies.
• Strong knowledge of digital engagement, analytics, and strategic content development.
• Proven experience advising senior leadership and managing multi-stakeholder communication environments.
• Experience with content creation tools (Canva, Adobe Suite)
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite is an asset

Other Requirements

• Possess a valid Class 5 AB driver's license and own or have access to a vehicle.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required by business needs.
• Willingness and ability to work after hours and/or weekends when required.
• Willingness to submit to an Oath of Confidentiality.
• Must provide and possess a clear criminal record check.
• Ability to speak and/or understand the Cree language (or another applicable First Nation language) would be an asset but not required

Position is open until a suitable candidate is found. All applications will be reviewed, although only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Mikisew Cree First Nation is committed to equal opportunity employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Final candidates for this position will be required to complete a security screening, which includes a criminal background check.

Kinanâskomitin (Thank you) for your interest.