Indigenous Relations Team Lead

Job Description - Indigenous Relations Team Lead (55874) Job Description Indigenous Relations Team Lead up to 11 months Job Number : 55874 Working closely with the Indigenous Relations Director, the Indigenous Relations Team Lead plays a crucial leadership role in guiding complex, politically sensitive projects and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the section. As the key point of contact for Indigenous Relations Consultants, this position provides operational guidance, supports issues management, oversees financial processes, and fosters a healthy, thriving team culture. You will lead strategic initiatives—such as supporting corporate implementation of the Indigenous Framework and nation-to-nation work plan agreements—while navigating a complex political environment with an unwavering commitment to reconciliation. Building and maintaining meaningful, respectful relationships across the organization, with community leaders, Elders, First Nation governments, and Métis partners will be essential to success in this role. As a subject matter expert, you will also monitor policy trends, conduct environmental scans, and help drive strategic advocacy efforts that reflect the needs and priorities of Indigenous communities. What will you do? Provide leadership, guidance, and support to Indigenous Relations Consultants on daily priorities, issues management, and connecting work across City departments Support recruitment, onboarding, coaching, performance evaluations (Performance Contribution Plans), and vacation/time approvals, while fostering an inclusive team environment Oversee complex internal and community-facing projects, including nation-to-nation agreements, urban reserve initiatives, and corporate implementation of the Indigenous Framework Serve as an expenditure officer for the unit, managing operational funding agreements, honorariums, vendor payments, and section budget allocations Collaborate on Council Reports, professional correspondence, and strategic planning, providing trusted advice to the Director and Branch Manager Cultivate and nurture authentic relationships with internal partners, urban community groups, Elders, First Nation governments, and Métis leadership Qualifications : University Degree in Social Sciences, Political Science, Indigenous Studies, Public Administration, or a related field Minimum of seven (7) years of extensive experience working directly with Indigenous communities, non-profits, Indigenous governments, and leadership Experience navigating political systems and community leadership dynamics with an appreciation for cultural protocols Proven track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects from inception to completion Assets: Demonstrated understanding and practical application of Change Management principles Experience facilitating public engagement, community consultations, or cross-functional working groups Skills required for success: Strong sensitivity to the political environment and ability to handle complex, confidential, and culturally sensitive issues with sound judgment Demonstrated ability to mentor, inspire, and guide staff while building a collaborative, respectful team culture Excellent analytical skills to critically evaluate issues, make independent decisions, and navigate non-standard, multi-faceted challenges Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to prepare high-level reports, represent the City on committees, and connect effectively with diverse audiences Alignment to our Cultural Commitments and Leadership Competencies ( https://bit.ly/4brRrXm ) Embracing a culture of equity, diversity, reconciliation, and inclusion Conditions of Employment: Hire is dependent on Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Check satisfactory to the City of Edmonton, and there may be a cost associated with this requirement Applicants may be tested Work Environment: This position ​may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement ​with ​the flexibility to work from both home and the worksite as per the Letter of Understanding between the City of Edmonton and Civic Service Union 52 The weekly hours of work for this position are currently under review and may change at a future time. Any changes will be made in accordance with the City of Edmonton/Civic Service Union 52 collective agreement, and the incumbent will be notified in advance Shift work requirements - may be required to work evenings and weekends This is a public-facing role and requires engagement and interaction with diverse people from various backgrounds with different needs, expectations and emotional states The City of Edmonton values applicants with a diverse range of skills, experiences and competencies, and encourages you to apply. We strive to provide reasonable access and accommodations throughout the recruitment process. To request an accommodation, please contact [email protected] . Learn more about our benefits https://bit.ly/COEbenefits Up to 1 temporary full-time position for up to 11 months This requisition is open to internal candidates only. Hours of Work : 40 Salary Range : $51.181 - $65.210 (Hourly); $106,865.930 - $136,367.280 (Annually) Recruitment Consultant : PC/RA Edmonton rests in the heart of Treaty Six territory in Alberta and the homelands of the Metis Nation. Classification Title : Strategic Planning Analyst III Posting Date : Aug 13, 2026 Closing Date : Aug 23, 2026 11:59:00 PM (MDT) Number of Openings (up to) : 1 - Temporary Full-time Union : CSU 52 Department : Social Development Work Location(s) : 18th Floor Edmonton Tower, 10111 104 Avenue Edmonton T5J 0J4 Connect with us! LinkedIn Facebook FAQ City of Edmonton Website Talent Hub