The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) plays a central leadership role in supporting Chief and Council, overseeing administration and operations, strengthening organizational capacity, and ensuring programs, services, and strategic priorities are delivered in alignment with Tsilhqot'in values and the Nation's long-term vision. This role is best suited to a steady, relationship-driven leader who can balance strategic oversight with hands-on operational follow-through, supporting managers to set goals, deliver on priorities, and maintain a respectful, professional workplace culture.
Responsibilities
Provide leadership across all programs and departments, ensuring clear goals, sound planning discipline, and measurable follow-through
Ensure appropriate tools and policies are in place to support effective administration and management; lead community planning initiatives where required
Support department managers with planning, goal setting, performance management, and accountability, including addressing performance and attendance issues as needed
Advise and inform Chief and Council and community on matters under Council's authority and direction
Attend Council, general and committee meetings; oversee the preparation of agendas and minutes; implementation of Council decisions
Ensure accurate and complete records are maintained for the Nation's affairs and all decisions of Chief and Council
Assist Council with third-party protocols and agreements, as required
Ensure staff adhere to approved policies and procedures
Develop, draft, and implement policies and bylaws for Council consideration and approval
Interpret and ensure compliance with applicable legislation, including the Indian Act, labour legislation, and related regulatory frameworks
Interpret contribution agreements and ensure all compliance, reporting, and accountability requirements are met
Maintain current knowledge of evolving policy and compliance obligations and manage organizational risk accordingly
Ensure all programs are administered within approved budgets; authorize expenditures and maintain strong internal controls
Lead the annual budgeting process and maintain budgetary control systems
Support department managers with budget monitoring, audits, and financial accountability, recommending adjustments where required
Present monthly comparative financial statements and oversee contract and tender reviews, accounting systems, and financial procedures
Maintain awareness of available funding opportunities and support proposal development and submissions across departments, with a particular emphasis on strengthening proposal writing and funding acquisition capacity related to housing and operations and maintenance (O&M) needs
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Supervise all department managers, coordinators, employees, and contractors, ensuring clear communication and delegation of responsibilities
Hold regular management meetings; support staff training, orientation, and development; clarify performance expectations; and manage grievances and appeals
Foster a respectful workplace culture grounded in professionalism, including clear expectations for how leaders engage with staff and community members
Develop and maintain effective working relationships with other governments, funders, and external partners
Ensure required reporting is completed for relevant departments and agencies (including social services, capital, education, and health)
Keep community members informed and up-to-date on key issues and activities, and build constructive, respectful relationships within the community
Ensure the effective operation and maintenance of municipal services and capital projects, including office and administrative systems
Ensure emergency services function effectively, respond to crisis situations as required, and provide dispute resolution and advocacy support in collaboration with department managers
Lead departmental planning, project coordination, and continuous operational improvement initiatives
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Indigenous Governance, Management, Finance, or a related discipline
A minimum of 7 years of progressively senior management experience, including 5+ years in an executive or senior leadership role overseeing multiple functional areas
Lived or learned experience working with First Nations governments, Indigenous organizations, or Indigenous-led institutions, with a strong understanding of Indigenous governance, culture, and community-based decision-making
Demonstrated experience overseeing administration, finance, human resources, programs, and operations, with accountability for budgets, funding agreements, reporting, and compliance
Proven knowledge of government and Indigenous funding frameworks, including experience securing funding, negotiating contribution agreements, and supporting sustainable, long-term funding strategies
Experience supporting Chief and Council, Boards, or other governing bodies with strategic planning
Demonstrated ability to provide senior organizational leadership across multi-department operations and to manage and support managers
Strong capability in policy development, governance, risk management, and compliance, including interpretation of legislation and contribution agreements
Proven financial acumen, including budgeting, internal controls, contracts, and organizational reporting, with the ability to support fiscal discipline across departments
Demonstrated ability to identify funding opportunities, support proposal development, and ensure effective reporting and accountability
Excellent judgment, emotional intelligence, and a respectful, relationship-based communication style when working with Chief and Council, staff, community members, partners, and external stakeholders
Nice to have:
A Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Leadership, Indigenous Governance, or a related field is considered an asset but not essential
Benefits
Relocation allowance
Subsidized housing in a newly renovated property
Important Details
Schedule: occasional evening or weekend availability may be required
Application Process
Preference will be given to Tŝideldel community members, though all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply
About the Company
Tŝideldel First Nation is a proud member of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, with its primary community and administrative centre located along Highway 20, approximately 188 km west of Williams Lake in the Central Interior of BC. The Nation has a population of over 600 members, with deep cultural, historical, and spiritual connections to its lands, language, and way of life. Reserve lands encompass approximately 4,362 hectares, and community life remains closely connected to Tsilhqot’in traditions, including fishing, hunting, and land‑based practices that continue to shape governance, decision‑making, and community priorities. Guided by a vision of being self‑governing, self‑determined, and self‑reliant, Tŝideldel First Nation is committed to ensuring a high quality of life for its members. Leadership is grounded in integrity, respect, cultural knowledge, and accountability, and advanced through collaborative governance, inclusive engagement, and community‑driven planning.
