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Description

Strathcona County Council is committed to building relationships to positively benefit the Indigenous community within and outside of Strathcona County. This position will facilitate building understanding within the organization about Indigenous Peoples and their history in Strathcona County; encouraging inclusivity of the many Indigenous Peoples who reside on the land now known as Strathcona County; while recognizing the structure of the Confederacy of Treaty Six, the unique culture and history of the Métis people, the governance of the Métis Nation of Alberta, and the unique Métis Settlements as distinct groups.

Working with different orders of government, specifically those of First Nations and Métis governments, and amongst departments, this position will support the Manager of Intergovernmental Affairs, the Chief Commissioner, Mayor, and Council with the development and implementation of a framework to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action that are directed to municipal governments and support an increase in Indigenous cultural competency throughout the organization.

Responsibilities

Participate in Indigenous and other outreach activities, representing the County’s perspective, while supporting the development of a variety of partner driven initiatives
Lead/participate in the delivery of internal and external initiatives/projects as assigned 
Identify and support opportunities for staff to learn and understand the history of Indigenous peoples and help identify opportunities for meaningful acts of reconciliation

Identify synergies and alignment with Indigenous Peoples’ perspectives on corporate initiatives related to diversity, inclusion, racism, systemic barriers, biases, and accessibility for all
Establish and lead working teams, facilitate and invite conversations with Indigenous Leaders and/or Elders and associated organizations; build relationships, partnerships, and advance the County’s strategic goals
Broker the development and implementation of responses/resolutions to issues/opportunities identified through discussions with internal and external working groups
Provide content expertise and support to Council and Administration in the development and delivery of strategies and initiatives which improve the liveability of Indigenous Peoples in Strathcona County 
Provide advice and guidance to County departments in the development of work plans and associated activities to encourage incorporating the Indigenous perspective

Provide input on the County’s perspective in the development of strategy/policy development for Indigenous initiatives
Liaise with other municipalities and jurisdictions and leverage information-sharing

Skills and Abilities

Ability to work independently in both thought and action, in research, analytical techniques, consulting and policy interpretation and development, issue identification, and problem solving are required

Ability to research, analyze, and put into context complex regional, provincial, and national issues and influence senior administration to understand and identify strategic opportunities
Extensive knowledge of Indigenous history and culture, significant knowledge of cultural protocols, primarily with Indigenous communities (i.e., First Nations, Métis and Inuit settlements and reserves)
Extensive knowledge of “duty to consult” principles and understanding their application 
Knowledge of current legal climate and landmark cases affecting rights-based arguments 
Significant skills and understanding in communication tools which includes the use of social media

Significant level of political acumen and ability to navigate varying levels of bureaucracy
Excellent project and process management skills; ability to effectively gather, synthesize, integrate, and interpret multi-faceted information from a wide range of sources/perspectives
Excellent relationship building, communication, report writing, facilitation, presentation and interpersonal skills required, proficiency with Google tools and Microsoft Office Suite

Requirements

Post-Secondary Diploma or Degree in Arts, Humanities, Community Development, Native/Indigenous Studies, or an equivalent recognized Degree
Minimum seven years progressively responsible intercultural experience, preferably with a focus on working with Indigenous groups, in community development activities
Master’s degree is considered an asset
Ability to speak an Indigenous language is an asset 
Valid Alberta Class 5 driver’s licence (or provincial equivalent). Must obtain business auto insurance for personal vehicle use on County business