Indigenous Relations Advisor

The Indigenous Relationship Advisor – Indigenous Relations (IR) will be involved primarily in supporting the operations of the Waasigan project through responsive Indigenous business and relationship engagement endeavors. The successful candidate will use a combination of strategic thinking and relationship building skills to further the success of Valard’s Indigenous engagement efforts.

This role reports directly to the Senior Director, Indigenous Relations and works closely with the Indigenous Relations team as well as Valard’s Project Management team. This role will support the building of new as well as enhance existing Indigenous relationships while supporting project management teams in the delivery of projects.

The ideal candidate is a self-motivated professional with proven experience in strong relationship development skills, energy experience, and a solid understanding of Indigenous matters.

Position Location

Thunder Bay, Ontario: Preference is for the position to be based in Thunder Bay and or the Waasigan Project area; however, frequent travel to remote communities is essential to the success of the role.

The position is responsible for early and ongoing engagement activities with communities that are within the Waasigan project area.

Success in the role will be developing successful and loyal relationships through meaningful engagement that set the foundations for long and trusting relationships with Indigenous communities. The primary focal point will be Indigenous communities, organizations, and businesses throughout Thunder Bay and area.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Initiate, develop and maintain strong working relationships with Indigenous communities and their economic development organizations.
2. As directed by the Senior Director, Indigenous Relations, develop and maintain working relationships with key project stakeholder organizations for the Waasigan project.
3. Contribute and support the development of Indigenous engagement plans and assist with the development of achievable targets (i.e. subcontracting and employment) by incorporating the early engagement knowledge of key communities and support the delivery of engagement activities.
4. Maintain an in-depth awareness of relevant political, socio-political and socio-economic issues local to the Waasigan project area.
5. Report on all issues and make recommendations to the Senior Director on all matters that may impact Valard’s ability to successfully participate in the regions’ economy.
6. Plan and participate in Trade shows and Job Fairs as necessary as well as representing Valard at key industry conferences/events.
7. Ensure all Indigenous Communications are being recorded and tracked per project requirements, including Records of Engagement, Commitments, and Issues.
8. Collaborate with Project Management Team (PMT) on Project Information Packages for distribution to Indigenous Communities, Leadership, Business Ventures, and online audiences.
9. Coordinate and schedule Indigenous Community Open Houses, collaborating with PMT, Employee Services, and Procurement teams.
10. Work with the Construction PM to ensure that any actions arising from Operational discussions are recorded and addressed, including follow-up with Indigenous Communities.
11. Support Business Readiness initiatives within Communities, including interface with Communities, Chi Mino Ozhitoowin (CMO), and Project Team support.
12. Interface with CMO and Community Leadership on Employee Engagement concerns, and develop Employee Information packages to provide guidance for new project hires.
13. Coordinate notifications to Indigenous Communities throughout the project lifecycle, updating on project status or upcoming activities (i.e., brushing, burning, implosive splicing, stringing, etc.).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• 5 – 10 years applicable Indigenous Relation or Community Engagement experience.
• Completion of an undergraduate degree in business administration or a business related discipline is preferred but not essential.
• An appropriate combination of education and experience is acceptable if the experience has been gained through a successful career in Indigenous relations, business and partnership development including significant experience in the field of energy generation and/or construction.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Superior critical analysis and research skills to oversee sensitive and high-profile strategic and/or operational issues.
• Strong understanding and awareness of Indigenous cultures and communities from a historical and current perspective.
• Ability to develop strategic priorities that consolidate input from and mirror the needs of contemporary Indigenous communities.
• Track record of developing and sustaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders through collaborative and consultative work processes.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex and sensitive issues including associated risk management.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills required to deliver on complex matters (written and verbal).
• Strategic communicator experienced in managing and speaking to complex situations earning the trust of internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven political acumen, demonstrating sound judgement on sensitive issues.
• Clear understanding and appreciation that frequent travel will be required with medium length absences from home, including frequent travel in small aircraft and remote roads to communities.

Valard Construction LP is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse workforce. We offer a competitive salary and a complete range of employee benefits.

Please forward your resume and cover letter in confidence through the posting on this page. We thank all applicants for their interest. All applications will be reviewed to determine which candidates' education and experience best meet the needs of the position. Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.