Indigenous Relations Manager

Location:

Surrey, BC, CA

Branch: Gas
Affiliation: Management & Exempt
Employment Status: Full-Time Temporary
Workplace Flexibility: Yes
Temp Duration: 12 months
Posting End Date: Open until filled

We’re a Canadian-owned and BC-based energy company taking steps toward a lower-carbon energy future by providing renewable energy, natural gas and electricity to more than 1.2 million customers.

We’re looking for new talent to join us as we transform BC’s energy future. Our diverse team of more than 2,600 employees is committed to a safe and inclusive culture where each of us can connect, belong and grow. Join us and let’s work together for a better BC.

Position Overview

You have an uncanny knack for genuinely connecting and understanding the needs of Indigenous communities and believe a strong reputation goes a long way when it comes to building and strengthening partnerships. You possess the ability to be empathetic see all sides of every situation and apply your negotiating skills to find common ground through transparent and respectful conversations.

As our Indigenous Relations Manager, your role entails collaborating with Indigenous communities to advance and support FortisBC operations in Indigenous communities. You will be the first point of contact for the communities and discuss opportunities for collaboration and incorporate feedback from Indigenous communities and leaders into company planning and execution of operational activities, decarbonization goals, and other corporate initiatives.

In this role, you will:

Build and nurture relationships with Indigenous communities, elected Councils, staff, and business organizations through proactive engagement and timely resolution of issues.
Remain abreast about relevant regulations and policies related to Indigenous rights, land use and consultation.
Coordinate and facilitate meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities regarding projects, operations & sustainment initiatives and explore potential renewable energy project opportunities.
Develop and implement engagement plans that include culturally sensitive approaches and respectful Indigenous protocols and practices.
Build familiarity with company’s programs and services to support objectives.
Collaborate with internal business units to help resolve operation and maintenance issues to support advancement of business objectives.
Identify community investment opportunities that contribute to enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the communities.
Work as part of a multidisciplinary team to implement strategies to maximize results and minimize risks.

What it takes:

A bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications or other related disciplines from a recognized program.
Minimum of four years of recent and related experience in community, indigenous, or public relations, business development or project management, with demonstrated success in strategic consultation and engagement.
Ability to meet firm deadlines with minimal supervision.
Project management expertise and balancing competing priorities.
Comfortable delivering presentations, public speaking and navigating challenging conversations.
Interpersonal and team-building skills.
Ability to assert interests with competing perspectives.
Exceptional organizational skills - manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and professional judgment skills.
Demonstrated excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
Ability and knowledge to complete applications and obtaining permits through British Columbia regulatory agencies, (e.g. BC Utilities Commission, BC Environmental Assessment Office, BC Energy Regulator)
Indigenous and stakeholder relations experience with communities in British Columbia.
Conflict resolution, negotiation, public participation training and/or related experiences are an asset.

What you need to know:

In this role, you will have the option to participate in a flexible work program, enabling you to work from an approved flex location in British Columbia up to 85 days a year (equivalent to approximately two days a week), subject to business or operational needs.

Our engaging workplace offers a wide range of challenging opportunities, while being safe, inclusive and diverse. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, while supporting life-long career development. We also encourage volunteerism and nourish the need to give back to your community.

To learn more about the recruitment process with FortisBC, please visit the You’re Applying. What now? page for additional information.

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