Position Purpose:
The Indigenous Relations Specialist will support the execution of an overall strategic program, reflective of a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, focused on opportunities for IO to engage with the Indigenous communities of Ontario. You will play a specific role in the oversight of the procedural aspects of Duty to Consult. In addition, you will support Indigenous literacy and education and implement processes to enable IO employees to understand the unique legal, historical and cultural significance of Indigenous peoples, for the purpose of promoting appreciation, understanding and effective relationships.
What You Will Do:
Partner with the Director, Indigenous Initiatives and the Manager, Indigenous Initiatives, to oversee Duty to Consult and Indigenous engagement on a portfolio of projects.
Establish and maintain strategic relationships with consultation offices, and on occasion, elected officials, of the Indigenous communities across Ontario.
Serve as subject matter expert and liaison to the business to ensure appropriate partnerships, communications, efforts and track the impact of our commitments as well as driving marketplace efforts within the Indigenous Communities within Ontario.
Develop and maintain strategic relationships with other Indigenous Relations leads within government agencies, economic development organizations and businesses which IO partners with.
Execute IO's Indigenous Action Plan based on the guiding commitments and targets under the pillars of Education, Employment, Inclusion and Economic Empowerment. Ensure time appropriate execution, sustained actions and working with different areas within IO to ensure the plan’s initiatives are adopted.
Assist in the development and delivery/procurement of equity and diversity education programs and policies contributing to the development of programs and initiatives focused on Indigenous affairs, embedding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in all processes for IO internally.
Who You Are:
Before reviewing the qualifications listed below, we want you to know that we understand you may not meet all the qualifications described, but still encourage you to apply, as you may have other relevant expertise and experience that you can bring to the role.
Candidates who self-identify as Indigenous with lived experience preferred and are encouraged to apply.
A few years of progressive work experience, in culturally appropriate Indigenous relations and engagement, stakeholder relations, land or environment.
In-depth knowledge of the history of Crown-Indigenous relations, treaties and relevant case law. Knowledge of the regulatory process as it pertains to Indigenous engagement would be an asset
A keen understanding of Indigenous communities, relevant cultural and business awareness, with ability to collaborate effectively with community partners to build lasting relationships.
Ability to intuitively understand/anticipate how specific actions/messages will impact on different Indigenous rightsholders.
Experience with Indigenous knowledge systems and values and the ability to provide guidance and support on cultural context and protocol across IO.
Develops and maintains close internal relationships with the Human Resources, Legal, Procurement and other interdisciplinary groups that can affect and influence Indigenous relations.
Knowledge of an Indigenous language would be an asset.
What We Offer:
Commitment to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture that promotes a sense of belonging and represents and reflects the needs of the communities we serve.
A defined contribution pension plan, where IO contributes the equivalent of 5% of a full-time employee’s annual salary, with an option for IO to match an additional 5% contribution made by the employee. IO also offers a Group Retirement Savings Plan and Group Tax Free Savings Account, designed to help IO colleagues plan and save for their future.
A comprehensive package that covers…