Communications and Development Manager - First Nations National Guardians Network

ABOUT THE NGN

Our vision - For every First Nation in what is now commonly called Canada to have the resources necessary to uphold their inherent stewardship responsibilities to the land, ice, and waters in their territories.

Our mission - To support and connect First Nations Guardians.

The First Nations National Guardians Network (NGN) is a nonprofit fostering stewardship and nationhood through First Nations Guardians initiatives.

NGN is the first-ever Indigenous-led national stewardship network in the world. Committed to empowering Guardians with consistent funding, training, and networking, NGN is grounded in Indigenous knowledge and values.

Guardians engage in vital land and water stewardship, e.g. managing wildfires, monitoring climate impacts, restoring ecosystems, and strengthening cultural and language revitalization.

NGN supports this crucial work by offering streamlined access to funds and investments, shaping applications based on Guardians' lived experiences and ensuring thriving programs for First Nations.

SUMMARY

We are excited to offer an exceptional opportunity for a passionate and dynamic Communications and Development Manager to join our expanding team and lead the development of NGN's communications strategies, in full support of First Nations Guardians.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role is crucial in amplifying NGN's brand visibility as a nationally recognized organization dedicated to empowering Guardians from coast to coast.

As our initiatives continue to grow, the Communications and Development Manager will play a central role in engaging with NGN's partners, funders, donors, media, and the Guardian community, helping to strengthen and expand our network.

This position offers a unique chance to contribute to an Indigenous-led organization, where you will help shape the narrative, build meaningful relationships, and drive funding strategies that directly support the vital stewardship work of First Nations Guardians.

If you are ready to be part of a transformative journey and make a lasting impact, we encourage you to join us.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS

Responsibilities :

Coordinating National Guardians Gathering : Collaborate with NGN and sister organization ILI to organize the biennial First Nations National Guardians Gathering.

Work closely with both teams to facilitate this event, leveraging communication strategies and expertise to ensure its success.

• Developing Communication Plans : Create and execute comprehensive strategies for communication to elevate NGN's visibility as a pivotal national organization supporting Guardians.
• Building Virtual Relationships : Cultivate and sustain connections with NGN's partners, funders, donors, the media, and the First nation communities, ensuring effective virtual communication and collaboration.
• Supporting Fundraising Efforts : Aid the growth of NGN's funding programs by crafting engaging communication materials that foster relationships with potential donors.
• Crafting Compelling Digital Content : Create impactful virtual content, including press releases, newsletters, social media posts, and fundraising materials tailored for diverse digital platforms in line with NGN's mission.
• Managing Online Campaigns : Plan, execute, and assess remote fundraising campaigns and events to align with organizational goals and maximize virtual fundraising opportunities.
• Enhancing Brand Presence : Develop and implement strategies to bolster NGN's identity and visibility in the virtual sphere, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and engaging the audience effectively.
• Implementing Automation Techniques : Introduce automation where applicable to streamline communication processes and social media management.
• Facilitating Virtual Collaboration and Reporting : Seamlessly collaborate within teams, providing regular reports and insights on communication and fundraising efforts, analyzing remote performance metrics for informed decision-making.
• Media Relations and Story Pitching : Leverage existing connections and pitch stories to media outlets, establishing media relations to amplify NGN's impact and initiatives effectively.
• Occasional Travel : Willingness to travel at least eight times a year for work-related events, meetings, or conferences.

Requirements :

• Demonstrated experience in effectively communicating and engaging with First Nations.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies, ensuring successful planning, execution, and evaluation of communication strategies and events.
• Three years of experience in communications roles, demonstrating proficiency in virtual communication strategies.
• Track record of establishing media connections and successfully pitching stories to news outlets, enhancing organizational visibility.
• Proficient in nurturing relationships remotely with diverse First Nations, donors, and the media.
• Ability to analyze data, virtual performance metrics, and campaign outcomes to drive future strategies.
• Adept at working effectively within remote teams and engaging remote cross-functional collaborators.
• Genuine dedication to NGN's mission and fervent support for First Nations Guardians' advancement through NGN's initiatives.
• Successful completion of a criminal record check as required for the role.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Extended health and dental coverage for employees, their spouses and dependents;
• Three (3) weeks annual vacation as a base, and late December office closure;
• Generous care days (sick leave) entitlement;
• Flexible work arrangements;
• Relevant professional fees and memberships covered; and
• Training and professional development opportunities.

HOW TO APPLY

NGN will conduct video interviews with selected candidates. If you're invited and require interview accommodations as a person with a disability, please inform us.

We strive to provide reasonable accommodations whenever requested, ensuring confidentiality for all accommodation-related information shared.

NGN is committed to the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the 94 Calls to Action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

We foster inclusive and accessible workplaces where employees feel valued and respected. As such, we welcome and encourage applicants who identify as Indigenous, persons with disabilities, and persons across the spectrum of sexual orientation and gender identities.

Applicants of First Nations an cestry are encouraged to apply.

This position will remain open until we have made a hire.