Director of Human Services

Human ServicesFull TimeMerritt, BC$80,000 - $125,000 CAD per year

Director of Human Services

Role Profile


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 Director of Community Services provides leadership and oversight to all health and social programs within the Lower Nicola Indian Band (LNIB). Reporting to the Executive Director, this role is responsible for planning, administering, and evaluating a wide range of community wellness, health, social development, and support services.


The Director ensures programs are delivered in a culturally safe, coordinated, and effective manner, while supporting staff, managing budgets, developing new initiatives, and responding to the evolving needs of LNIB Members. This position plays a key role in promoting healthy families, reducing dependency, strengthening community capacity, and creating opportunities for individual and collective wellness.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


· STRATEGIC & PROGRAM PLANNING


o Define short- and long-term goals for Community Services programs and develop annual operational plans.

o Assess community health and social needs and design programs to meet those needs.

o Monitor regional, provincial, and federal initiatives to ensure LNIB programs remain responsive and forward-looking.

o Develop, recommend, and administer operating budgets for all programs under Community Services.

o Ensure planning aligns with LNIB’s vision, goals, and strategic direction.



· ADMINISTRATION & PROGRAM OPERATIONS


o Review monthly financial statements, monitor expenditures, and provide variance analysis.

o Prepare and submit funding proposals, program plans, and required documentation.

o Ensure all statistical, reporting, and compliance requirements are met for funders and LNIB administration.

o Oversee completion and submission of all program reports required by Chief & Council, Health Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, and other agencies.

o Prepare and submit annual budgets for review and approval.

o Ensure all program and financial records are well-maintained and audit-ready.


· STAFF SUPERVISION & TEAM LEADERSHIP


o Provide direct supervision to program managers, coordinators, and support staff within Community Services.

o Maintain staffing levels in alignment with LNIB policies and service needs.

o Set departmental goals and expectations using a collaborative team-based approach.

o Lead annual employee performance evaluations for all Community Services staff.

o Support employee learning, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.

o Foster a culturally grounded, accountable, and supportive workplace environment.


· COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS


o Promote awareness of Community Services programs to LNIB Members and families.

o Provide community updates through newsletters, meetings, and engagement activities.

o Act as a resource and point of contact for community members accessing health and social services.

o Maintain strong relationships with partner agencies, service providers, and government bodies.


· FACILITY & RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


o Oversee the maintenance, organization, and use of the Community Services building.

o Manage allocation of building spaces and shared program areas.

o Ensure safe, accessible, and welcoming environments for community program delivery.


· OTHER DUTIES


o Provide leadership during emergencies or crisis situations.

o Support community events, gatherings, and wellness initiatives as needed.

o Undertake additional responsibilities assigned by the Executive Director.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES


· Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams.

· Strong understanding of health and social programs, funding requirements, and reporting standards.

· Knowledge of Health Canada and Indigenous Services Canada requirements.

· Analytical skills for planning, budgeting, evaluation, and program design.

· Ability to work effectively with community members, staff, partners, and service providers.

· High-level communication and conflict resolution skills.

· Strong ethical standards and professionalism, especially when dealing with sensitive issues.

· Ability to act as a liaison with agencies, organizations, and community partners.

· Ability to speak or willingness to learn the Nlaka’pamux language preferred.


QUALIFICATIONS


· Degree in a Social Services, Health, or related discipline with minimum five (5) years management experience; or

· A combination of education, training, and extensive supervisory experience in community health or social development fields.

· Experience working with First Nations communities is highly preferred.

· Experience in program management, budgeting, reporting, and staff supervision.


WORKING CONDITIONS


· Fast-paced, high-demand environment with frequent interruptions.

· Exposure to sensitive, emotional, or traumatic situations affecting individuals or families.

· Requires occasional overtime to meet deadlines or respond to community emergencies.

· Combination of office-based work and fieldwork within the community.

· Regular meetings with partner agencies, funders, and community groups.

· Must maintain a current and clear Criminal Record Check.


OTHER REQUIREMENTS


· Valid BC Driver’s License.

· Ability to lift, carry, set up and clean up event materials.

· Ability to travel.


PREFERENCE

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