Director of Human Resources

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

Position Summary

The Director of Human Resources is responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction to the Human Resources (HR), and Administration teams. The position is accountable for developing department strategies and providing sound advice to senior management on all related subjects. The goal is to ensure that all HR, and administrative needs of Westbank First Nation (WFN) are being met and align with the organization's strategic plan while championing a decolonized approach to Human Resources.

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or equivalent in Human Resources or related field required
• 10+ years of progressive Human Resources experience
• 5+ years of leadership responsibility
• Proven experience in developing strategy, programs, and policies relating to human resources
• Experience working with indigenous communities/people is required
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

Requirements

• CPHR Designation required
• Criminal Record Check with results acceptable to WFN
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of Westbank First Nation.

Job Duties/Responsibilties

• Provides strategic and operational HR leadership within the framework of a self governed First Nation Government, balancing forward thinking HR planning with the realities of a decision-making structure in local government
• Establishes department objectives and accountabilities in line with WFN’s strategic direction, including recruitment, compensation, training and development, wellness, succession planning, employee relations and retention, labour relations, administration
• Proactively builds trust-based relationships across all areas of the organization by engaging leaders, staff and community members where they are, seeking out conversations and connections rather than waiting for them to come to you
• Supports leadership and employees through coaching, guidance, and problem solving that reflects both best practice in HR and the unique cultural context of the nation
• Fosters a culturally safe and respectful workplace by integrating an understanding of Indigenous history, colonial impacts, intergenerational trauma and their influence on workplace dynamics, into all HR practices
• Engage in ongoing learning about Indigenous governance, history, and community priorities to ensure HR practices contribute to reconciliation and long-term organizational health
• Champions a decolonized approach to HR that values relational leadership, collective decision making and culturally informed conflict resolution.
• Enhances the organization’s HR through planning, implementing, and evaluating employee relations and human resources policies, programs, and practices
• Partners with senior management to understand long-term objectives, identify areas for opportunity in the ongoing development of WFN’s organizational structure and strategy
• Leads the development and implementation of HR programs (talent acquisition, succession planning, performance development, employee relations, training, wellness etc.) in ways that align with both organizational needs and cultural values
• Leads the development and implementation of strategic talent acquisition plans, based in traditional and cultural practices, to support growth and change and are focused on qualified members first, supporting the constitutional requirements
• Creates and leads the Compensation Philosophy, ensuring relevant and competitive reward structures, conducts on-going analysis to ensure overall competitiveness and consistent approach to pay decisions for all levels across WFN
• Assesses and identifies WFN’s training and development needs and oversees the effective implementation of the Learning and Development Strategy through the Learning and Development Coordinator.
• Utilizes technology to reduce administration and futureproof process, underpinned by the Human Resource Information System – UKG.
• Plans, administers, and monitors budgets for the department
• Develops and Mentors the HR team, building capacity through delegation of responsibilities, regular feedback, performance management, succession planning, training and development
• Leads the health and wellness strategy including the benefits program review and renewals, wellness programming, using creativity to develop and implement new initiatives that are dedicated to the well-being of WFN’s workers
• Ensure compliance to the legislative requirements including Canada Labour Code, Canadian Human Rights Act, and WFNs relevant laws
• Attends and presents at Council and HR Committee meetings as required
• Cultivates professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as necessary in the performance of the position, and as assigned by the Director of Operations

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Strong senior administration, leadership and management skills including strategic planning, policy development and change management
• Broad knowledge and experience in, employment law, compensation, organizational planning, organization development, employee relations, safety, and training and development
• Proven leadership abilities including developing and motivating staff at all levels
• Models’ patience, persistence and empathy in navigating a complex organizational culture where relationship building and trust take time to develop
• Demonstrated ability to increase productivity and continuously improve methods, approaches, and departmental contribution while remaining cost-sensitive
• Thorough knowledge of Canadian federal employment, Canada Labour Program
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, with ability to interact with employees at all levels of the organization as well as build and maintain strong working relationships
• Capable of taking initiative, making proactive decisions, and anticipating next steps
• Experience as a trusted resource as a member of a senior-level executive team
• Strong facilitation, coaching, mediation, negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality in interpersonal interaction
• Collaborate closely with other directors to ensure HR initiatives are integrated and finding pathways for alignment.

The median salary for this position is $141,772

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, September 7, 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.