Director of Planning & Economic Development

Economic Development Manager

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.
3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay

• Extended Health and Dental Benefits
• Employer Matched Pension Plan
• 15 Statutory Holidays
• Paid Winter Holiday Break
• Retention Bonuses after years of service
• Paid Personal Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities

Start Date: ASAP
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. This position offers a flexible hybrid or remote work arrangement, with regular in-person engagement required.
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
Lead negotiations on development agreements, partnerships, and investment opportunities.
Represent OKIB in regional economic development initiatives and strategic partnerships.
Financial Development & Funding
Monitor project financial performance and recommend strategies to maximize long-term returns
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.
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.
You are community-minded, detail-oriented, have a willingness to contribute to a team and an excellent communicator.
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
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.
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
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.