Hughes Collective is pleased to present an exciting opportunity on behalf of our client.

Position Title: Director of Operations

Location:  Birch Narrows Dene Nation, SK

Reporting to: Chief and Council

Our Client

Birch Narrows Dene Nation is a vibrant northern Saskatchewan community rooted in culture, resilience, and a clear vision for the future. Guided by Chief and Council, the Nation is committed to strengthening governance, enhancing community services, and creating sustainable opportunities that support the wellbeing of its members.

With a deep respect for Dene traditions and values, Birch Narrows Dene Nation continues to build a modern, responsive administration that reflects the priorities of its people.

Through thoughtful leadership and collaborative partnerships, the Nation is advancing initiatives that support community development, economic growth, and culturally grounded governance.

Birch Narrows Dene Nation is focused on aligning strong leadership with effective operations to deliver meaningful outcomes for its members. This is a community where decisions are made with purpose, where relationships matter, and where the impact of leadership is both visible and lasting.

The Opportunity

Birch Narrows Dene Nation is at an important moment in its journey. With a strong cultural foundation and a clear vision for the future, the Nation continues to expand programs, strengthen governance, and pursue opportunities that support long-term community wellbeing.

At the center of this work is leadership, leadership that can connect vision with action. As Director of Operations, you will help guide the administration that turns community priorities into real outcomes. From supporting programs and services to strengthening operational systems, your work will directly impact the daily lives of Birch Narrows Dene Nation members.

In this role, you will work closely with Chief and Council, translating strategic direction into coordinated action across departments and teams. You will support managers, align resources, and ensure that programs, services, and initiatives are delivered effectively, responsibly, and in ways that reflect the values of the Nation.

This is more than an operational leadership position. It is an opportunity to help shape how the Nation grows, how services evolve, and how opportunities are created for future generations.

For a leader who values community, collaboration, and meaningful impact, this role offers the chance to contribute to something lasting, helping Birch Narrows Dene Nation build a strong, sustainable future for its people.

Key Responsibilities

As the Director of Operations, you will work collaboratively and are responsible for:

1. Operational Leadership & Administration

• Provide leadership and oversight for the day‑to‑day operations of Birch Narrows Dene Nation administration.
• Ensure programs, services, and initiatives are delivered effectively and in alignment with Council direction and community priorities.
• Oversee the implementation of operational policies, procedures, and governance frameworks.
• Ensure organizational activities comply with applicable legislation, regulations, funding agreements, and Band policies.

2. Strategic Planning & Community Priorities

• Support Chief and Council in the development and implementation of strategic and comprehensive community plans.
• Translate strategic priorities into operational plans and measurable initiatives.
• Monitor organizational performance and program outcomes to ensure goals and community needs are being met.

3. Financial Stewardship & Funding

• Participate in financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation for the Nation.
• Ensure effective financial management, reporting, and accountability for programs and services.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities to support community programs, infrastructure, and economic initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with funding agency reporting requirements.

4. Leadership, People & Organizational Development

• Provide leadership, supervision, and mentorship to department managers and administrative staff.
• Oversee the development and implementation of progressive human resource policies and practices.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional development within the organization.

5. Government & Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain productive working relationships with federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
• Build and sustain relationships with community members, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Represent Birch Narrows Dene Nation in meetings, negotiations, and collaborative initiatives when appropriate.

6. Governance Support & Advisory

• Provide operational guidance and strategic advice to Chief and Council.
• Ensure Council decisions are effectively implemented across departments and programs.
• Provide regular briefings and operational updates to leadership.

Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

The Essentials (Hard Skills):

• Undergraduate degree in Business Administration, Management, Public Administration, or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant leadership experience, or a diploma in a related field with at least 10 years of progressive management experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex organizations including budgeting, reporting, human resources, and policy development.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous governance structures and community administration.
• Experience overseeing multi‑department operations and leading senior staff.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and provincial legislation, funding frameworks, and governance processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common administrative technologies.

The Intangibles (Soft Skills):

• Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities with the ability to guide and inspire teams.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build relationships across leadership, staff, and community stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker who can balance long term planning with operational priorities.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion when handling confidential matters.
• Ability to navigate complex organizational challenges with diplomacy and sound judgment.

What Our Client Offers

• Meaningful Impact – This is an opportunity to contribute to a community where your work directly supports the wellbeing of members, strengthens governance, and helps shape a sustainable future for the Nation.
• Community-Centered Leadership – Work alongside Chief and Council in a role that values collaboration, cultural respect, and decisions grounded in community priorities and traditions.
• Competitive Compensation – A competitive salary package reflective of your experience and the scope of leadership responsibilities, designed to recognize your impact and expertise.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Access to a benefits program that supports your health and wellbeing, including medical, dental, and additional supports that contribute to long-term stability.
• Collaborative & Purpose-Driven Environment – Be part of an organization that values accountability, transparency, and teamwork, where leadership is approachable and focused on making a difference.
• Connection to Culture & Community – Experience the unique reward of working in a culturally grounded environment that honors traditions while building toward future opportunities

About the Collective

At Hughes Collective, we don’t just recruit, we revolutionize how talent meets opportunity. We’re not in the business of filling roles; we’re in the business of transforming careers and powering businesses with bold, game-changing hires.

For candidates, this isn’t just about your next job, it’s about uncovering your passions, amplifying your strengths, and unlocking your potential. We’re here to connect you to a career that excites, inspires, and fuels your future.

This isn’t recruitment as usual, this is Hughes Collective. Bold. Authentic. Unapologetically different. Your next move starts here.