Position Title: Director, Children and Families Services

Location: We’koqma’q First Nation

Status: Full time, Permanent

Reports To: Chief Wellness Officer

About the Role

We’koqma’q First Nation is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Director, Children and Families Services. This role provides strategic direction, operational oversight, and leadership for all programs and services supporting children, youth, and families in the community.

The Director ensures that services are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and grounded in the values and priorities of We’koqma’q First Nation. This position plays a key role in building strong partnerships, supporting staff, and advancing the wellbeing of families through effective program delivery and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the overall operations of the Children and Families Services Department

Supervise, support, and evaluate departmental staff, fostering a collaborative and accountable team environment

Develop, implement, and evaluate programs and services for children, youth, and families

Ensure programming is culturally relevant, trauma-informed, and responsive to community needs

Oversee case management activities and support complex client situations

Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure alignment with funding agreements

Prepare reports, proposals, and updates for funders and leadership

Build and maintain relationships with families, Elders, community partners, and external agencies

Represent the department in meetings, committees, and community initiatives





Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and child protection standards

Identify service gaps and support continuous improvement and innovation in programs

Qualifications

Post-secondary degree in Social Work, Health, Social Sciences, or related field (preferred)

Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Minimum 3-5 years of management or supervisory experience in a social services, health, or community-based setting

Experience working with children, youth, and families

Experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation

Experience managing budgets and funding agreements

Knowledge of First Nations communities and cultural protocols

Assets

Membership in a regulated professional body (e.g., Social Work, Nursing)

Knowledge of child welfare systems and interagency collaboration

Skills and Attributes

Strong leadership and team-building abilities

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Sound judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently

High degree of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity

Compassionate, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach





Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Culturally grounded and respectful of First Nations values and traditions

Contacts and Collaboration

This role works closely with:

Internal leadership, including the Chief Wellness Officer and Chief and Council

Department staff and other program areas within the Health Centre

External partners such as schools, government agencies, and social service organizations

Community members, Elders, and families

Working Conditions

Community-based position with regular interaction with families and partners

Exposure to sensitive and complex situations involving children and families

May require occasional travel and attendance at meetings or events

Flexibility required, including evening and occasional weekend work

Some after-hours response to urgent matters may be required

What We Offer

Competitive compensation based on qualifications, experience, and demonstrated competencies.

Comprehensive employee benefits package.

Opportunities for professional development and ongoing learning.

A supportive and collaborative work environment.

Meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of Mi'kmaw children, youth, and families.

Why Join Us

This is a meaningful leadership opportunity to help shape and strengthen services for children and families in We’koqma’q First Nation. The Director will play a critical role in advancing culturally grounded programs, supporting staff, and improving outcomes for the community.

📌 Director, Children and Families Services (Baddeck)
🏢 Waycobah First Nation
📍 Baddeck