Director, Language & Learning – Internal/External Posting

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Employment Status: Permanent Full-time position

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work workplace. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

Why Work with AFN?

- Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums – Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN.
- Generous Pension Matching – A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future.
- Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days – Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year.
- Professional Development Support – Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career.
- Wellness Funds – Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses.
- Modern, Central Location – Our bright, collaborative office is located in the Sun Life Building in downtown Ottawa,



with Parliament LRT Station right in the building for an easy commute.
- Convenient Amenities – Steps away from cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Meaningful Work – Be part of a national organization advocating for First Nations, making a positive difference for communities across Canada.
- Collaborative & Inclusive Culture – Work alongside passionate, dedicated colleagues in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Position Overview

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is seeking an experienced Director to lead the Language and Learning sector and build, develop, and motivate the team to successfully achieve the Branch goals and the sector plans, priorities, and strategic objectives. Reporting to the Senior Director, this role provides strategic leadership, policies, programs and initiatives that advance First Nations-led approaches to the revitalization, reclamation, maintenance, transmission, and protection of First Nations languages, as well as holistic, lifelong education and learning.

The Director will ensure that sector priorities are aligned with AFN mandates, First Nations leadership direction, and Chiefs-in-Assembly resolutions. The Director will work collaboratively with First Nations leadership, language holders, Elders, technicians, educators, education experts, governments, and other partners to advance First Nations priorities and interests.





The Director will also provide strategic advice and recommendations to senior leadership and the National Chief’s Office, represent AFN in national, regional, local, and international forums, and lead a team in achieving the sector’s strategic and operational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

- Lead, develop, motivate, and supervise the Languages and Learning team to successfully achieve sector plans, priorities, and strategic objectives.
- Develop and implement multi-year strategies and annual work plans addressing First Nations languages, education, and lifelong learning priorities.
- Ensure sector priorities and activities are aligned with AFN mandates, political direction, organizational priorities, and Chiefs-in-Assembly resolutions.
- Provide strategic advice on emerging issues, opportunities, risks, and policy developments affecting First Nations languages and learning.
- Establish priorities, assign responsibilities, monitor progress, and ensure the timely delivery of sector initiatives.
- Contribute to Social Branch and organization-wide strategic planning and decision-making.
- Manage sector resources and budget in accordance with approved priorities and organizational policies.
- Attend and support preparations for AFN Assemblies, Confederacy meetings, and other political events.

Policy Development & Advocacy:

- Lead and oversee the development of policy analysis, advocacy positions, strategic advice, and recommendations on First Nations languages, education, and learning.
- Represent AFN in discussions and negotiations with federal, provincial/territorial governments, departments, o

📌 Director, Language (Ottawa)
🏢 Assembly of First Nations / Assemblée des Premières Nations
📍 Ottawa