Download the Full Job Profile Here: Position Profile Gitxsan Dev Corp - Chief Executive Officer.pdf

About The Company
Located in the heart of Northwest British Columbia, the Gitxsan Nation is a proud and resilient people whose history, culture, and stewardship of their traditional Lax'Yip territory stretches back countless generations. Guided by the Gitxsan Ayookw (traditional laws), the Nation has maintained a deep connection to its lands, waters, and communities while continuing to build a strong vision for the future. It spans the basin and watersheds of the upper Skeena River, including the Kispiox, Bulkley, and Babine rivers, centering around the Hazelton, Terrace, and Smithers. Today, the Gitxsan are creating new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity while remaining firmly grounded in their cultural values, governance traditions, and responsibilities to future generations.

Gitxsan Development Corporation (GDC) plays a central role in realizing that vision. Established to advance economic opportunities on behalf of the Gitxsan Nation, GDC is more than a collection of businesses. It is a vehicle for economic self-determination, community prosperity, and long-term nation building. Guided by the principle of being "a stitch in the blanket towards the Gitxsan Nation's economic independence," GDC works to create meaningful employment, develop local talent, generate sustainable revenues, and build business partnerships that create lasting benefits for Gitxsan members and communities.

Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the organization continues to advance a diverse range of initiatives designed to create economic benefits, employment opportunities, and long-term value for the community while remaining grounded in Indigenous values, culture, and community priorities.

PURPOSE
To achieve long-term economic independence, prosperity, and self-determination for the Gitxsan Nation through sustainable business development, strategic partnerships, and opportunities that honour Gitxsan laws, values, and stewardship of the land.

OUR COMMITMNENTS
The Corporation Is Dedicated To

Economic independence for the Gitxsan Nation

Sustainable economic growth and prosperity

Job creation and training opportunities for Gitxsan people

Balancing economic prospect with stewardship of Gitxsan Lax Yip (traditional territory)

Operating in accordance with Gitxsan Ayookw (traditional laws and governance principles)

Building prosperity for current and future generations

GUIDING PRINCIPALS
Community Prosperity
Commitment to creating economic opportunities that support the long-term well-being and prosperity of Gitxsan Nation Members.

Sustainability
Focus on responsible development that balances economic success with environmental stewardship and respect for future generations.

Partnership & Collaboration
Building strong relationships with community members, governments, industry partners, neighbouring First Nations, and stakeholders to achieve shared success.

Innovation & Growth
Pursuing new business opportunities, creative solutions, and continuous improvement to strengthen economic self-sufficiency and community resilience.

Respect for Culture and Values
Ensuring all economic development initiatives honour and reflect the culture, traditions, and aspirations of the Gitxsan Nation.

Position Overview
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for providing the strategic, operational, financial, and cultural leadership required to guide GDC through its next stage of growth, opportunity, and long-term community impact.

The CEO will work closely with the Board, Gitxsan leadership, subsidiary managers, staff, community members, partners, and external stakeholders to execute strategic priorities, evaluate and advance recent business opportunities, strengthen existing operations, and ensure the organization remains accountable to its mandate, governance framework, and community objectives.

As the senior leader of the organization, the CEO will be responsible for fostering a strong, transparent, and productive relationship with the Board of Directors. This includes providing regular and meaningful updates on organizational performance, financial results, strategic initiatives, risks, and emerging opportunities, while ensuring the Board is equipped with the information required to make informed decisions. Success in the role will require disciplined governance practices, clear communication, sound judgment, and a commitment to accountability and transparency.

The CEO will oversee a diverse portfolio of business interests and subsidiaries, ensuring strong financial stewardship, operational performance, risk management, and alignment with GDC's long-term strategic vision.





The CEO will support the Board in advancing sustainable economic development opportunities that create lasting value for the Gitxsan Nation while building and maintaining strong relationships with Hereditary Chiefs, community leaders, government agencies, Indigenous partners, industry stakeholders, and prospective business partners.

While the position offers flexibility through a hybrid work arrangement, the CEO will be expected to maintain a meaningful presence within the community and across the territory to foster trust, strengthen relationships, and remain connected to the priorities and aspirations of the Gitxsan Nation.

This role requires an individual who can balance strategic vision with practical execution and who possesses the experience and leadership capability to guide a growing organization through increasing complexity and opportunity. Beyond delivering business results, the CEO will be expected to champion workforce development, support the growth of Gitxsan talent, mentor future leaders, and help ensure that economic opportunities translate into meaningful, long‑term benefits for current and future generations of Gitxsan people.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership

Lead the development and execution of the organization's strategic plan and annual business objectives

Identify, evaluate, and advance new economic development opportunities, partnerships, investments, and business ventures

Ensure organizational priorities align with the long-term vision, values, and objectives established by the Board

Provide recommendations to the Board regarding growth opportunities, investments, and strategic initiatives

Advance opportunities that create sustainable economic benefits, employment, and long‑term prosperity for the Gitxsan Nation

Governance & Board Relations

Develop and maintain a strong working relationship with the Board of Directors

Provide timely and accurate reporting on organizational performance, key initiatives, opportunities, and risks

Support informed decision‑making by preparing board materials, business cases, recommendations, and strategic updates

Serve as the primary link between the Board and the organization, ensuring open, transparent, and proactive communication on strategic, operational, and financial matters

Ensure a clear distinction between governance responsibilities and operational management

Operational Leadership

Provide overall leadership and direction for day‑to‑day operations

Develop organizational systems, processes, and performance standards that support efficiency, accountability, and long‑term sustainability

Foster a culture of collaboration, professionalism, continuous improvement, and service excellence

Ensure organizational activities comply with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and governance requirements

Financial Management

Oversee organizational budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities

Ensure effective stewardship and management of organizational resources

Monitor organizational performance against approved budgets and business plans

Support sustainable financial growth through sound risk management and strategic decision‑making
Relationship Building & Community Engagement

Act as the primary ambassador for the organization

Build productive relationships with Indigenous communities, governments, funding agencies, business leaders, and industry stakeholders

Maintain a strong and visible presence within the community

Navigate the intersection of business priorities, governance, culture, and community expectations in a respectful and collaborative manner

Communicate organizational goals, achievements, and opportunities to community members and stakeholders

People Leadership

Recruit, mentor, develop, and retain a high‑performing team

Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and mutual respect

Support succession planning and leadership development initiatives

Champion the development of Gitxsan talent and future leaders while fostering opportunities for workforce participation and capacity building

Create an organizational environment that empowers staff to succeed

IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES
The successful candidate will be a collaborative and respected leader who combines business acumen with strong relationship‑building skills and a genuine commitment to Indigenous community development.

Operate as the strategic thinker who can maximise current economic opportunities and effectively identify prospects while maintaining focus on operational excellence and organizational performance.



Be comfortable working with Boards and governance structures and have demonstrated success leading organizations through growth and change.

Demonstrating credibility, professionalism, and robust interpersonal skills will be essential to building trust among community members, staff, leadership, stakeholders, and external partners.

Education And Experience Requirements
Education and Professional Background

A university degree in business administration, commerce, finance, public administration, economic development, or a related discipline is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and senior leadership experience will also be considered.

A minimum of five years of progressive managerial or senior leadership experience is required.

Demonstrated experience in a senior leadership role, particularly in a dynamic, growth‑oriented, community‑accountable, or Indigenous governance setting.

Required Experience And Capabilities

Advanced knowledge of First Nation governance, administration, and Indigenous economic development.

Proven success in Indigenous economic development, business development, community economic development, or related sectors, with the ability to balance economic, social, cultural, and environmental objectives

Experience working with a Board of Directors, Chief and Council, or comparable governance structure.

Able to distinguish between governance and operational management and to support effective decision‑making at both levels.

Senior leadership experience, including leadership, coaching, team development, succession planning, and organizational growth

Experience leading the development, implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of organizational policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.

Strong financial and business acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, capital planning, investment analysis, risk management, and corporate governance.

Experience developing, negotiating, and managing joint ventures, partnerships, or other complex strategic relationships.

Knowledge of natural resource development, major infrastructure, construction, or land‑based economic development initiatives is considered an asset.

Proven ability to think strategically and creatively, assess opportunities, solve complex problems, and move priorities from concept to execution.

Strong leadership, team building, negotiation, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear board reports, briefing materials, business cases, and funding submissions.

Leader Competencies

Strategic Thinking

Relationship Building

Financial Acumen

Negotiation & Influencing

Community Engagement

Business Development

Governance Awareness

People Leadership

Communication & Public Speaking

Change Leadership

Cultural Awareness

Demonstrated cultural competency and experience working with Indigenous communities; knowledge of Gitxsan history, governance, culture, and community priorities is considered an asset.

WHY JOIN?
This is a unique chance to lead a growing and community-focused organization at a pivotal stage in its evolution.

The Successful Candidate Will Have The Opportunity To

Shape the future direction of the organization

Drive meaningful economic and community impact

Work closely with an engaged Board and leadership team

Advance Indigenous economic development and community prosperity

Build lasting partnerships and sustainable opportunities for future generations

Compensation

Competitive salary $180-220,000/annum

Housing option may be provided by GDC

Benefits

WORK ARRANGEMENT
The organization recognizes that exceptional candidates may reside outside the immediate community.

The successful candidate is expected to maintain a regular and meaningful presence within the community and participate in organizational meetings, Board meetings, stakeholder engagement activities, and community events. Flexible arrangements may be considered for the right candidate, including travel support and scheduled in‑community work periods as mutually agreed upon.

This reflects discussion had within the community on what they would like to see from the new CEO regarding a regular community presence.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
We welcome conversations with individuals interested in learning more about this unique leadership opportunity. To explore the role in confidence, please contact a member of our Executive Search team at MNP.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected to move forward in the process will be contacted.

To ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process, all inquiries and applications should be directed through MNP. Direct approaches to Gitxsan Development Corporation, its Board members, or staff will not be considered part of the recruitment process.

Leo McPeak, Senior Manager
Email: [email protected]

Kam Kelter, Senior Consultant
Email: [email protected]

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📌 Chief Executive Officer (British Columbia)
🏢 MNP Executive Search & Professional Recruitment
📍 British Columbia