Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location: Métis Crossing, Smoky Lake, AB

Closing Date: Until Suitable Candidates Found

Position Status: Full time

Step Into a Story That’s Bigger Than You.

At Métis Crossing, you won’t just find a workplace, you’ll find a calling. This is a place where the past breathes through every fiddle strum, every bead, every story told around a crackling fire under the northern sky.

Perched on the banks of the majestic North Saskatchewan River, Métis Crossing is Alberta’s first major Métis cultural destination; a place of learning, healing, and celebration. Our Lodge, Cultural Gathering Centre, and sweeping landscape are not just buildings or land; they are living reflections of Métis pride and perseverance.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) to join our senior leadership team and oversee all day-to-day operations and business development functions.

Working full time on-site in Smoky Lake, Alberta, the COO will ensure the effective delivery of programs and services, support growth through strategic partnerships and tourism initiatives, and foster an engaging, culturally grounded experience for every visitor. The COO will work in alignment with Métis Crossing’s mission, values, and long-term vision, and be a champion for innovation, sustainability, and Métis economic empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

- Direct the daily operations of Métis Crossing, including hospitality, guest services, cultural programs, accommodations, retail, food & beverage, events, and facilities.
- Ensure all departments operate efficiently, safely, and in alignment with cultural protocols and best practices in tourism.
- Maintain standards for quality, safety, and customer experience across all services.

Business Development & Strategic Growth





- Identify and lead business development opportunities to enhance Métis Crossing’s tourism offerings and revenue generation.
- Build partnerships with tourism operators, funders, industry stakeholders, and Métis communities.
- Collaborate with marketing to promote Métis Crossing as a premier destination for cultural tourism.

Financial & Administrative Oversight

- Develop, monitor, and manage operational budgets, grant-funded projects, and earned revenue streams.
- Oversee procurement, contract management, and vendor relations.

Team Leadership & Culture

- Lead and mentor a diverse operations team, fostering a respectful and collaborative work environment grounded in Métis values.
- Work closely with HR to support staffing, training, employee engagement, and performance development.
- Build capacity through professional development and succession planning.

Guest Experience & Cultural Integrity

- Champion an authentic and enriching guest experience that celebrates Métis culture, language, and history.
- Support programming that is inclusive, intergenerational, and grounded in Métis storytelling. Collaborate with Knowledge Holders, Elders, and cultural advisors to ensure programming reflects traditional knowledge and protocols.

Governance & Stakeholder Engagement

- Provide operational updates and reports to the CEO and Métis Crossing Board of Directors.
- Cultivate strong relationships with community leaders, citizens, funders, and tourism partners.



Represent Métis Crossing at events, conferences, and sector forums.

Qualifications

- A Metis Citizen would be an asset
- Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Tourism, Hospitality, Indigenous Studies, or a related field.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience, including 5+ in senior roles within tourism, hospitality, business development within the Indigenous sector, and or the non-profit sector.
- Experience managing complex operations, teams, and guest-facing services.
- Demonstrated ability to lead business development, partnerships, and revenue growth.
- Deep respect for Métis culture and knowledge of Indigenous governance or non-profit leadership is considered a strong asset.
- Excellent communication, financial management, and strategic planning skills. Ability to work on-site full-time in Smoky Lake, Alberta.

What we Offer

- A rich Indigenous cultural experience
- Prospect to work at the first Major Métis cultural interpretive center Competitive salary based on experience
- Group benefits package including health, dental, and pension plan (if applicable) Paid vacation and wellness days
- Professional development and cultural learning opportunities

To Apply:

Should this position be of interest, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your leadership experience and connection to Métis Crossing to [email protected]

Metis Citizens with the required skillsets and education are encouraged to apply.

Join us at Métis Crossing.

Lead with purpose. Celebrate Métis culture. Build a destination for generations to come.

Métis Crossing thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person

📌 Chief Operating Officer (COO) (Canada)
🏢 Métis Crossing
📍 Canada