Executive Director

AdministrationFull TimeMerritt, BC$110,000 - $165,000 CAD per year

Executive Director


ABOUT LNIB

The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) is a vibrant and growing First Nations community in British Columbia, committed to the well-being, culture, and prosperity of its members. LNIB provides a wide range of programs and services including health, education, social development, governance, and economic development initiatives.


We value innovation, collaboration, and respect for our traditions, and we are dedicated to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and safe work environment for all employees. LNIB follows Indigenous governance principles and prioritizes community engagement, cultural knowledge, and sustainable development in all its operations.


Join LNIB and be part of a team that is making a meaningful impact in the community while contributing to a dynamic and culturally rich workplace.



POSITION SUMMARY

The Executive Director is the senior administrative leader of the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB), responsible for guiding the overall operations, programs, and services of the organization. Reporting directly to Chief & Council, the Executive Director provides strategic leadership, ensures effective governance support, and oversees all departments to ensure the needs of LNIB Members are met in a culturally grounded, efficient, and accountable manner.


This role is responsible for implementing Council’s vision and strategic direction, managing organizational planning and financial oversight, leading senior staff, and ensuring that LNIB policies, laws, and agreements are followed. The Executive Director also represents LNIB in government, community, and inter-agency relationships, supporting meaningful partnerships and long-term community development.


As LNIB’s highest administrative role, the Executive Director promotes transparency, integrity, and service excellence while fostering a positive and respectful working environment that reflects the values, culture, and priorities of the community.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


· STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP & ORGANIZATIONAL DIRECTION


o Lead the overall administration of the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) in alignment with the vision, values, and strategic direction set by Chief & Council.

o Oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of strategic, operational, and departmental plans.

o Ensure all LNIB programs and services are delivered effectively, efficiently, and in the best interests of LNIB Members.

o Provide high-level guidance on policy development, service delivery, governance, and long-term planning.

o Support the implementation of the LNIB Comprehensive Community Plan and ensure alignment across sectors.

o Represent LNIB as a senior leader in meetings, negotiations, and strategic partnerships.


· GOVERANCE & CHIEF & COUNCIL SUPPORT


o Oversee the day-to-day operations of all LNIB programs, services, and departments.

o Ensure that administrative systems, reporting structures, and internal processes are effective and well managed.

o Coordinate with sector directors and managers to ensure departmental goals and objectives are met.

o Establish clear operational priorities and monitor progress toward organizational outcomes.

o Support continuous improvement, accountability, and service excellence across the administration.


· FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT & RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


o Oversee LNIB’s financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting in collaboration with the finance team.

o Ensure resources are allocated responsibly in alignment with strategic priorities and approved budgets.

o Review financial reports, monitor expenditures, and ensure compliance with funding agreements.

o Identify and secure additional funding opportunities to expand programs and services.

o Promote sound financial practices, internal controls, and long-term sustainability.


· HUMAN RESOURCES & SENIOR SUPERVISION


o Provide leadership and direction to all sector directors, program managers, and administrative leaders.

o Oversee recruitment, performance management, training, and staff development processes.

o Ensure organizational policies, personnel practices, and HR standards are consistently applied.

o Address workplace issues including disputes, performance concerns, and disciplinary matters in accordance with LNIB policy.

o Support a positive, culturally grounded, and productive work environment.

o Ensure clear communication of expectations, priorities, and organizational goals to all staff.


· POLICY DEVELOPMENT, COMPLIANCE & REPORTING


o Lead the development, review, and implementation of policies, procedures, and administrative frameworks.

o Ensure LNIB operations comply with all applicable laws, agreements, and regulations.

o Oversee reporting requirements for funders, government partners, and internal governance processes.

o Maintain systems for records management, documentation, and organizational accountability.

o Interpret legislation, funding agreements, and LNIB policies to support informed administration.


· COMMUNITY, GOVERNMENT & STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS


o Build and maintain positive relationships with LNIB Members, other First Nations, government partners, funders, and community organizations.

o Represent LNIB with professionalism and cultural integrity.

o Support economic development initiatives, in collaboration with the Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corporation.

o Engage with community members on key issues, priorities, and opportunities.

o Promote transparency, community engagement, and culturally respectful communication.


OTHER DUTIES


· Provide crisis management, conflict resolution, and emergency administrative response when required.

· Participate in community events, ceremonies, and gatherings when appropriate to role.

· Remain on-call or work extended hours during periods of high demand or urgent matters.

· Ability to travel for meetings, conferences, and community business.

· Valid BC driver’s licence.

· Commitment to ongoing leadership development and cultural learning.

· Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and uphold LNIB governance protocols.

· Perform other related duties as assigned by Chief & Council.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES


· Strong leadership, governance, and executive-level decision-making skills.

· Advanced organizational, analytical, and strategic planning abilities.

· Deep knowledge of First Nations governance, administration, and community realities.

· Strong understanding of financial management, funding agreements, budgets, and reporting.

· Knowledge of personnel management, labour practices, and HR policy.

· Ability to build strong relationships with community members, staff, governments, and external partners.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.

· Ability to prioritize multiple complex tasks under tight deadlines.

· Political acuity and the ability to navigate sensitive and confidential matters.

· Ability to speak or willingness to learn Nłeʔkepmxcín is preferred.


QUALIFICATIONS


· Master’s degree in Business, Public Administration, First Nations Governance, or a related field and minimum 3 years senior administrative experience; OR

· Bachelor’s degree in a related field and minimum 5 years senior administrative experience; OR

· Ten (10) years of progressively responsible and relevant experience.

· Experience working in First Nations governments, public administration, or Indigenous community programming.

· Experience in financial management, multi-department oversight, and policy development.

· Experience with conflict resolution and complex problem-solving.


WORKING CONDITIONS


· High-demand senior leadership role requiring frequent prioritization, decision-making, and adaptability.

· Fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and urgent deadlines.

· Requires regular attendance at evening meetings and occasional weekend commitments.

· Regular travel within the community and occasional external travel.

· Extended periods of computer use, meetings, and seated work.

· High level of responsibility, confidentiality, and emotional resilience.

· Weekly overtime and irregular hours can be expected.

· Must maintain a current and clear Criminal Record Check.


PREFERENCE

The Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) follows Section 25 of the Human Rights Code, giving preference to Indigenous applicants where applicable.