POSITION OVERVIEWAt BDC, we envision a future where First Nations, Métis and Inuit entrepreneurs and employees thrive, and where inclusive growth and economic reconciliation are embedded in our work. Our approach is guided by Indigenous perspectives and priorities, meaningful relationships, mutual respect and sustained action.
The Senior Advisor, Indigenous Relations strengthens BDC's relationships with Indigenous rights-holders, communities, Nations, organizations, economic development partners and other rights-holders. The role translates community and partner insights into practical advice, partnerships and initiatives that advance BDC's Reconciliation Strategy and improve how BDC supports Indigenous entrepreneurs. Reporting to the Director, Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, the Senior Advisor brings established community relationships, works across BDC to coordinate engagement, support implementation and build shared understanding.
CHALLENGES TO BE MET- Build and sustain trusted relationships with Indigenous rights-holders, communities, Nations, organizations, entrepreneurs, financial institutions and ecosystem partners across Canada through respectful, reciprocal and informed engagement, guided by engagement plans aligned with BDC's Reconciliation Strategy.
- Listen to, understand and translate community and partner perspectives into actionable insights and recommendations for relevant BDC teams and decision-makers.
- Lead and coordinate assigned Indigenous relations, partnership and reconciliation initiatives from planning through execution, ensuring clear accountabilities, milestones, deliverables and measurable outcomes.
- Represent BDC at selected community, industry, government and economic-development forums to strengthen relationships, identify opportunities for collaboration and ensure commitments are followed through.
- Support implementation of BDC's Reconciliation Strategy and action plan by translating priorities into assigned initiatives, workplans and measurable outcomes; conducting research and benchmarking; and preparing recommendations, briefings and progress reports for senior leaders and governance forums.
- Serve as a subject matter expert by providing advice and guidance on reconciliation, Indigenous engagement and cultural protocols to colleagues across BDC.
- Contribute to BDC's PAIR certification by participating in relevant working sessions and providing Indigenous-relations expertise, partner perspectives, evidence, narratives and assigned deliverables.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FORRequired qualifications- Minimum of seven years of experience in Indigenous relations, community or rights-holder engagement, partnership development, economic development, government relations, reconciliation or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated experience engaging directly and respectfully with Indigenous rights-holders, communities, Nations, organizations and partners, and ability to build and sustain trusted relationships.
- Strong understanding of the distinct histories, cultures, rights, governance structures, priorities and protocols of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, and of the Canadian reconciliation context.
- Proven program and project management experience, including the ability to manage multiple complex initiatives, contributors, timelines, risks and deliverables.
- Excellent written, verbal, facilitation and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate clearly and respectfully with community partners, colleagues and senior leaders.
- Ability and willingness to travel within Canada, including to Indigenous communities, as required.
- Bachelor's degree in Indigenous studies, business, public administration, political science, social sciences, communications or a related field, or an equivalent combination of community leadership, cultural knowledge, education and professional experience.
Preferred qualifications and assets- Proficiency in English and/or French is important; Indigenous language knowledge and community-based communication experience are equally valued.
- Strong understanding of the Canadian reconciliation context, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
- Experience developing partnerships or programs that support Indigenous entrepreneurs and economic participation.
