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 setting 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.

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

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

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