Economic Development Advisor

Position Title: Economic Development Advisor

Department: Intergovernmental

Reports To: Manager of Government and Treaty Operations

Location: Inuvik, NT

Employment Type: Full Time, Term (Ends March 31, 2027) With possibility of extension

Background

The Economic Development Advisor supports the Gwich’in Tribal Council’s economic development priorities by overseeing the Gwich’in Business Registry and serving as a key liaison between Gwich’in Tribal Council, Gwich’in businesses, industry, government, and proponents of major projects within the Gwich’in Settlement Area.

Reporting to the Manager of Government and Treaty Operations, the position is responsible for maintaining and developing the Gwich’in Business Registry, supporting opportunities for Gwich’in businesses to participate in procurement, contracting, employment, and economic opportunities, and ensuring relevant project and business information is effectively communicated to GTC and Gwich’in Participants. The top priority will be identifying Gwich’in Participants and their businesses for upcoming and future opportunities and shall further Chapter 10 of the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement to maintain and strengthen the Gwich’in economy, and that the Gwich’in shall be economically self-sufficient.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as a key liaison between Gwich’in Tribal Council, Gwich’in businesses, industry, government, and major project proponents.

• Maintain the Gwich’in Business Registry through ongoing updates and ensure all relevant documentation and supporting records are accurately maintained and organized.

• Collaborate and communicate consistently to update the Gwich’in Business Registry, ensuring all business information and registration records are accurate and current.

• Provide guidance and support to Gwich’in participants in establishing businesses, including assisting with business registration requirements, navigating the Gwich’in Business Registry process, and connecting participants with relevant resources and support services.

• Monitor major projects, developments, and economic initiatives relevant to Gwich’in interests and identify potential opportunities for Gwich’in participation.

• Identify and promote contracting, procurement, employment, training, and business opportunities for Gwich’in businesses and Participants.

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with Gwich’in businesses, industry partners, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

• Support GTC participation in meetings, working groups, consultations, and other engagements related to major projects and economic development.

• Research economic trends, funding programs, procurement opportunities, and other initiatives that may support Gwich’in economic development.

• Provide research, analysis, and recommendations to the Manager of Government and Treaty Operations.

• Coordinate and share relevant major project and economic development information with GTC departments and leadership.

• Prepare reports, briefing materials, presentations, and other documentation related to economic development activities.

• Represent Gwich’in Tribal Council at relevant business, industry, community, and economic development events and meetings.

• Maintain appropriate records and confidentiality of business, project, and organizational information.

• Additional duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Economic Development, Commerce, Finance, Public Administration, or a related field.

• A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal post-secondary education.

• 3-5 years of experience in economic development, business development, project coordination, stakeholder relations, or a related field.

• Experience working with businesses, industry, government, Indigenous organizations, or community-based organizations is considered an asset.

• Knowledge of economic development, procurement, contracting, and business opportunities in the Northwest Territories is considered an asset.

• Experience developing and maintaining business relationships and stakeholder partnerships.

• Experience monitoring and coordinating information related to projects, initiatives, or economic opportunities.

• Strong research, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, briefing materials, presentations, and correspondence.

• Knowledge of Indigenous governance structures, cultural values, and community-based service delivery is considered a strong asset.

• Knowledge and understanding of Gwich’in culture, history, communities, and the Gwich’in Settlement Area is considered an asset.

• Ability to travel within the Northwest Territories and Gwich’in Settlement Area as required.

Our Commitment to Inclusive Hiring

In accordance with Section 16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act and our obligations under the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement (GCLCA), preference will be given to qualified GCLCA Participants and Indigenous applicants. We encourage applicants to self-identify in their application if they wish to be considered under this preference.