OCAP® Development Officer

The Chiefs of Ontario are seeking a dedicated and highly skilled project manager to fulfill the role of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) Development Officer. The OCAP® Development Officer will lead the development of a regionally focused OCAP® education and training program in Ontario. Key responsibilities include: the design and oversight of initiatives to promote awareness of OCAP® principles in First Nations communities; engaging with First Nations Leadership, governments and subject matter experts in the design of sector-specific approaches to OCAP® implementation and; establishing a resource hub for continued OCAP®-related learning and education. The project will be focused on strengthening First Nations data sovereignty and governance; promoting, protecting and advancing OCAP® principles in Ontario; and building capacity for the effective exercise of First Nations’ inherent right to self-determination in research and data management. Our ideal candidate is OCAP® certified, has experience working within and alongside First Nations communities, and an ability to lead complex projects.

LOCATION: Hybrid – 468 Queen St East, Toronto, Ontario, and the employee’s home office.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with the Associate Director and the Director’s Office to establish program principles, aims, and objectives.
• Develop and oversee implementation of work plans to fulfill program principles, aims, and objectives.
• Identify timelines and/or benchmarks to measure progress and ensure the timely achievement of program deliverables.
• Work within program budget.
• Develop and maintain relationships with First Nations, First Nations organizations, and other relevant bodies to ensure effective dialog and collaboration between partners.
• Engage with First Nations Leadership, governments, and subject matter experts in the design and development of the program.
• Provide written reports, briefing notes, memorandum and presentations to First Nations Leadership, Chiefs and Councils, PTOs, First Nations government staff and technicians as required.
• Attend relevant meetings and gatherings.
• Travel may be required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Relevant post-secondary education (equivalent to undergraduate or post-graduate degree)Proven project management and leadership experience.
• Experience in proposal development and budget management.
• Experience in strategic planning and implementation.
• Completed the Fundamentals of OCAP® course (and/or commits to completing the course upon offer of employment.)
• Experience working with First Nations, PTOs, and/or Tribal Councils.
• Knowledge of First Nations culture, history, values, and expectations.
• Experience in negotiations and conflict resolution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience leading discussion groups and providing presentations.
• Capacity to work effectively and independently.
• Excellent organizational and information management skills.
• Must be able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Adaptable and flexible to meet needs and challenges as they arise.
• Must be trustworthy, reliable and maintain confidentiality.
• Preferably fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

BENEFITS:

• Hybrid Work Arrangement.
• Two (2) Weeks Paid Time Off for December Holiday Break.
• Two (2) Weeks of Paid Vacation per Year, Progressively Increasing After Years of Service.
• Ten (10) Days of Paid Sick Leave per Year.
• Five (5) Days of Personal Time per Year.
• 100% Employer Paid Group Insurance, Including Extended Health Coverage, Dental, Short-/Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance.

DURATION: January 2025 to March 31st, 2026, with the possibility of renewal based on funding.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled.

Send letter of application, resume and include 2 references marked confidential to:

Ashley Nardella, Human Resources Manager

[email protected]

Interviews will be held via Zoom. While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

Successful Candidate must be eligible to work in Canada.