Capacity Development Department Membertou OfficeEmployment Term: Full-Time, PermanentClosing Date: November 13th 2026Scope of Position The Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq (UNSM) Capacity Development department supports our five member First Nations, Membertou, Eskasoni, Potlotek, Wagmatcook and We’koqma’q, in strengthening governance and program capacity. Our work includes governance, planning, infrastructure, emergency management, community development and data governance.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Capacity Development leads the department’s strategy, people and performance. The Director supervises program managers, sets direction within approved priorities, and represents the department with member communities, funders and partners within delegated authority. The Director will play a central role in building a strong, stable team.
Lead the department’s priorities, annual workplans and service improvements in line with UNSM’s strategic plan, member community direction and approved resources; Build strong working relationships with member community leadership, administrators and technical staff, making sure programs respond to community priorities; Represent the departmentwith member communities, funders and government, and advise the Executive Director on strategy, risks and significant decisions; Oversee performance and continuity across all department programs, and resolve cross-program issues; Supervise and coach program managers, set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews and build accountability throughout the department; Lead staffing, succession and recruitment planning with Human Resources; Lead departmental budgeting and resource planning with the Chief Financial Officer and Finance, monitor spending and sustainability,



and assess proposed recent or expanded services for community fit, staffing capacity and full cost before commitments are made; Work with the Manager, Funding Development & Compliance on renewals, applications and funder reporting, making sure program teams provide accurate narratives and outcomes on time; Ensure the department follows UNSM’s HR, finance, procurement, records and privacy policies, including Indigenous data governance principles; University degree in management, public administration, community development or a related field; Experience managing budgets, government-funded programs and partnerships, including Indigenous Services Canada funding; Knowledge of Mi’kmaw communities, governance and protocols, and experience working with First Nations at the regional and/or community level, is strongly preferred; Proven ability to build trust and lead a team through change, with strong judgment, coaching, communication and conflict-resolution skills; Proficient with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, and able to learn new organizational systems; Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle, with ability to travel provincially, regionally and nationally, including regular travel to member communities; andAbility to understand, speak and translate Mi’kmaq into English is an asset.
The Director is accountable for departmental strategy, leadership and performance within approved plans and UNSM’s delegations of authority. UNSM offers health and dental benefits, a group pension plan and summer Flex Fridays.
They will foster positive relationships, communicate respectfully, and contribute to a workplace environment grounded in cultural humility, reconciliation, and continuous learning.
The Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq reserves the right to refuse any or all applications at any stage of the hiring process.

📌 Development Manager (Winnipeg)
🏢 Union of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq
📍 Winnipeg