Economic Development Manager

Economic Development Manager
Okanagan Indian Band

K ʷ U K ʷ LIW ̓ T L ̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.
Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:

• 3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay
• Extended Health and Dental Benefits
• Employer Matched Pension Plan
• 15 Statutory Holidays
• Paid Winter Holiday Break
• Cultural Leave
• Discounted Silver Star lift passes
• Retention Bonuses after years of service
• 15 Paid Sick Days
• Paid Personal Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work : 37.5 hours per week

Start Date: ASAP

Deadline for applications: Open until filled  

JOB SUMMARY
The Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) is seeking a strategic and results-driven Economic Development Manager (EDM) to lead and advance key economic development initiatives that support long-term community prosperity. Reporting to the Executive Director, the (EDM) will identify, develop, and execute high-value opportunities on OKIB lands, including major development projects, investment attraction, and strategic partnerships. Working collaboratively with leadership, internal teams, and external stakeholders, this role is focused on generating sustainable revenue, employment, and economic growth for OKIB members. This position offers a flexible hybrid or remote work arrangement, with regular in-person engagement required.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
Reports to the Executive Director

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Economic Development Leadership

• Lead the implementation and continuous advancement of the OKIB Economic Development Strategy.
• Identify high-impact economic opportunities that generate sustainable long-term revenue and employment opportunities for OKIB members.
• Develop and execute strategies that maximize the economic value of OKIB lands and assets.

Major Development Project Leadership

• Lead major economic development projects from concept through execution, including large-scale developments.
• Manage project feasibility assessments, development planning, partner negotiations, and project implementation.
• Coordinate cross-departmental collaboration to ensure successful delivery of major capital and land development initiatives.

Land Development & Investment Attraction

• Position OKIB lands as a prime destination for commercial and mixed-use development opportunities.
• Actively attract investors, developers, and strategic partners to pursue development opportunities on OKIB lands.
• Structure land leasing arrangements, joint ventures, and development partnerships that maximize economic returns for the Band.
• Develop investment marketing materials, development packages, and partnership proposals.

Partnership Development & Negotiation

• Build strong working relationships with developers, investors, government agencies, and industry partners.
• Lead negotiations on development agreements, partnerships, and investment opportunities.
• Represent OKIB in regional economic development initiatives and strategic partnerships.

Financial Development & Funding

• Develop business cases, financial models, and investment frameworks for major economic initiatives.
• Identify and secure funding opportunities through government programs, grants, and financial partnerships.
• Monitor project financial performance and recommend strategies to maximize long-term returns

Internal Collaboration

• Work closely with the GOC, Lands Department and Territorial Stewardship Department to align development initiatives with land use planning, environmental stewardship, and cultural values.
• Coordinate internal resources to support successful project implementation.

Governance, Reporting & Strategic Advice

• Provide strategic advice and recommendations to the ED, Chief, and Council regarding economic development opportunities and investments.
• Provide regular project updates, financial summaries, and strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Present development opportunities, project proposals, and updates at Council and membership meetings.

Community Engagement

• Communicate economic development opportunities and progress to OKIB members in a transparent and accessible manner.
• Participate in community meetings and events related to economic development initiatives.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure all economic initiatives comply with OKIB policies, the Indian Act, and applicable regulatory and environmental requirements.
• Monitor development risks and implement strategies to mitigate potential challenges.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or an equivalent combination may be considered. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in economics, Business Administration, Commerce, Urban Planning, Real Estate Development, or a related field.
• Certification as a Technician Aboriginal Economic Developer (TAED) or Professional Aboriginal Economic Developer (PAED) is considered an asset.
• Must posses a valid Class 5 driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle

Experience

• Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in economic development, commercial development, real estate development, or business development.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale development or infrastructure projects.
• Experience negotiating partnerships, investment agreements, or development deals.
• Experience working with Indigenous governments or communities is strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of land development, economic development strategy, and investment attraction.
• Familiarity with the Okanagan regional economy is considered an asset.
• Proven experience preparing business cases, financial models, and development proposals.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Core Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)

• Strategic thinker with strong economic development and business acumen
• Ability to identify, market, and structure land development opportunities
• Strong negotiation and partnership development skills
• Excellent relationship-building abilities with government, industry, and community stakeholders
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Financial literacy and ability to analyze development opportunities
• Strong communication, presentation, and reporting skills
• Cultural awareness and respect for OKIB values and traditions
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$120,000 - $130,000 per annum dependant upon education and experience.

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:
Email: View email address on civicjobs.ca
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4

If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ View phone number on civicjobs.ca

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Preference will be given to qualified Aboriginal Applicants as per section 41 of the Human Rights Code.