Job Opportunity: Director, Indigenous Relations – Ottawa (hybrid) or Toronto (remote)**
Blackbird Strategies is a boutique full-service, values-based public affairs firm providing communications, advisory, issues management, and government relations services to our clients. We work primarily with Indigenous governments and organizations—and with non-profits and corporate clients who want to build better relationships with them. We are a growing firm and are looking for an experienced, passionate advocate and consultant who can lead client files, work in a collaborative environment, and advance our (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous) clients’ goals.
**First Nation, Inuit and Métis candidates located in Toronto or Ottawa who have some but not all of the required experience and qualifications are encouraged to apply. As part of our commitment to reconciliation, we will work with select candidates to develop an appropriate role based on experience and qualifications and to create mentorship and learning opportunities for those interested in working in the public affairs consulting sector.
Responsibilities:
Reporting to the Chief Strategy and Chief Executive Officers, the Director, Indigenous Relations will serve as the lead and primary resource for Indigenous engagement. The successful client will:
Build and maintain strong relationships with Indigenous leadership and communities in Ontario.
Provide subject matter expertise related to Indigenous needs and support.
Ensure that Indigenous perspectives are incorporated into planning, service development, and project implementation.
Provide strategic advice, analysis, and support on Blackbird account files, including account management.
Develop written materials such as, briefing notes, reports, and strategies for our clients.
Manage files, including having responsibility for maintaining positive client relationships and ensuring we stay in scope, provide client deliverables on time, and work toward achieving successful client outcomes.
Identify emerging issues in Indigenous communities and business development.
Qualifications:
Post-secondary education—either a degree or diploma—in a related discipline.
Minimum three years’ experience in public affairs, in-house or in an agency.
Demonstrated ability to create campaigns and engage with diverse audiences.
Strong skills in community engagement, project planning, and management.
Proven understanding of Indigenous realities in Canada.
Demonstrated experience in developing partnerships and working effectively with Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations.
Proven track record in working with Indigenous groups to achieve successful outcomes.
A proven record of experience and success in developing and executing public affairs campaigns.
Professional written and verbal skills.
Proven ability to both work collaboratively and lead project teams.
Attention to detail and strong time management skills.
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent judgement, problem solving, and collaboration skills.
Benefits:
Generous vacation/PTO package
Health and dental benefits
Performance bonus
Sales incentives
Please send your cover letter, salary expectations, and c.v. to lisa@blackbirdstrategies.ca. Only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Applications will be accepted until the role is filled. We thank you in advance for your interest.