Job Description

About Millbrook First Nation
Millbrook First Nation is a Mi’kmaq community located within the town of Truro, positioned in the Hub of Nova Scotia. Millbrook provides opportunities for their Membership by creating a diverse range of economic development initiatives to aid in strengthening capacity, wealth, and improving overall well-being of the Community.

Millbrook’s laser focus consists of bringing economic, social, and cultural perspectives to all economic development initiatives and for the Community through business development, land and resource development and acquisitions, labour force reinvestment and development, procurement and partnership development and socio-economic and Community development.

Millbrook has thrived in economic development in the past decade with large scale projects such as the Millbrook Power Centre and the Shannon Park development and continues to actively pursue joint venture opportunities with local, national, and international companies in a broad diversity of sectors and includes medium to large-scale industrial projects, clean tech, alternative/green energy, fisheries, and tourism.

Our Vision
Millbrook First Nation to be the economic engine for the benefit of its members.

This Moment, This Position
The Executive Director provides strategic leadership in governance, community planning, and intergovernmental relations. This role is instrumental in advancing Millbrook First Nation’s long-term vision by enhancing governance and administrative practices, securing full certification under the First Nations Financial Management Board, transitioning Millbrook into its land management regime, and supporting economic development initiatives.

As the sole position reporting directly to the Chief and Council, the Executive Director serves as a key advisor on policy development, legislative matters, and intergovernmental affairs. This includes advocating for Millbrook’s interests, fostering strong relationships with the Chief and Council and driving economic growth through strategic partnerships.

Committed to upholding Millbrook’s mission and objectives, the Executive Director ensures transparent communication with internal and external interest holders, strengthens community engagement and provides the Council with the critical information and resources necessary for informed decision-making.

This is a full-time, non-council position, meaning the Executive Director title holder is ineligible to run for or hold a seat on Millbrook Council.

How You Would Contribute

Leadership
– Oversee strategic initiatives and First Nation affairs, including Millbrook business ventures, First Nation Management Board requirements, program initiatives and intergovernmental relations.
– Lead and support the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Senior Director of Operations, setting performance expectations and addressing escalated operational issues requiring Council decisions.
– Ensure Millbrook’s senior management team understands Council directives and has the resources to implement them effectively.
– Provide direction and support to Millbrook’s Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and consultation team as needed.
– Develop and maintain positive working relationships with the Millbrook community, government and key interest holders.
– Represent Millbrook during events and activities to enhance Millbrook’s profile.
Serve as a key member of Millbrook’s Governance team.
– Oversee quarterly and annual reports, budgets, audits and time-sensitive projects.

Planning
– Develop and implement Millbrook’s strategic plan that includes both short and long-term objectives.
– Engage with Council, community, management and staff in comprehensive community planning including operations, program/service delivery, land use, social and education development, economic sustainability, housing and emergency services.
– Work with the Council to secure adequate funding for operations.
– Oversee preparation of Millbrook’s annual report.
– Collaborate with the CFO and the Senior Director of Operations to develop and execute an operational plan aligned with Millbrook’s strategic plan.
– Develop strategies and recommend to the Council, new economic development opportunities and improvements to existing businesses to generate income and employment for Millbrook First Nation’s members.

Policy
– Work with Millbrook’s legal team to interpret and ensure compliance with applicable legislation (e.g., Indian Act, Bylaws, Labour Standards, Health, and Safety).
– Develop policies in collaboration with the Senior Director of Operations and department heads.
– Present major administrative policy changes to the Chief & Council for approval.
– Be the key liaison for Millbrook’s legal and communications team.

Risk Management
– Identify and mitigate risks affecting Millbrook’s operations, community members, management, staff, property, finances, and goodwill.
– Develop and enforce strategies to mitigate risks.

Council Related
– Advise, inform, and liaise with Council, implementing Council decisions and advising on policy matters.
– Provide regular, comprehensive reporting on Millbrook’s administration, financial position and economic development ventures.
– Attend and participate in Council meetings including Council committee sessions.
– Act as a liaison between the Chief & Council and senior management

Finance
– Collaborate with the CFO and Senior Director of Operations to develop and manage yearly operational and capital budgets for Millbrook First Nation.
– Ensure financial statements and reports are prepared and presented to the Council.
– Oversee research and proposal submissions related to revenue-generating business ventures, programs, and services.
– Manage capital projects.

Communications
– Develop and implement a comprehensive communications plan to ensure regular and effective communications between the Chief and Council and internal and external interest holders (e.g., Management team, employees, community and Millbrook members, partners, and business associates).
– Report to government and other key interest holders (e.g., government, community) as required.
– Develop and maintain working relationships with management, community members, Millbrook members, partners and government representatives.
– Attend regional, provincial, and national meetings and consultation sessions as needed.
– Implement communication plans to keep the community and Millbrook members informed on relevant issues and activities.
– Establish collaborative working relationships with key interest holders (e.g. funders, government representatives, Indigenous and non-Indigenous community/business organizations).
– Manage dispute resolution, crisis response, public relations, lobbying and advocacy efforts to support Millbrook’s interests and community needs.

Education and Qualifications
Education: Minimum post-secondary Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, First Nations Governance, or a similar discipline.

Experience:
– Minimum of 10 years of experience in senior leadership roles at the director or executive level.
– A combination of relevant experience and education may be considered.

Indigenous Knowledge:
– In-depth understanding of Indigenous and/or Mi’kmaq communities, governance structures and legislation including First Nations administration and Aboriginal Rights and Title.
– Proven experience in First Nations governance and leadership.
– Demonstrated ability to work effectively with Indigenous communities and organizations to support their development and strategic objectives.

Economic & Business Development: Strong knowledge and experience in economic and business development including financial management, budgeting and strategic planning.

Interest Holder Engagement: Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with community members, government agencies and other key interest holders.

Community Involvement: Awareness and participation in social activities and issues within the community is considered an asset.

Compliance & Ethics: Must clear a Criminal Record Check and adhere to Millbrook’s policies and procedures.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Executive Director position is a strategic, results-driven leader with a strong understanding of Indigenous governance, economic development, and intergovernmental relations. They will bring extensive experience in senior leadership roles, demonstrating the ability to drive organizational growth, foster community engagement, and ensure financial and operational excellence.

The successful candidate will have deep knowledge of First Nations governance structures, funding sources, legislative frameworks, and policy development. They will be adept at strategic planning, risk management and financial oversight while effectively managing people, resources and relationships.

Strong leadership and communication skills are essential in this role to effectively implement Millbrook First Nation’s strategic vision. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to navigate complex challenges and identify opportunities for growth and improvement. As a collaborative leader, they will value transparency, accountability, and community engagement while advancing Millbrook’s mission, promoting sustainable economic development, and strengthening relationships with government entities, stakeholders, and the Millbrook community.

Statement of Intention
This position is designated for Indigenous peoples, with a particular preference for those who identify as Mi’kmaq and/or are from Millbrook First Nation. We are seeking candidates with knowledge of and cultural sensitivity toward First Nations culture and ways of life.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive recruitment process. In partnership with the P4G search team, we ensure a safe space for you to share your experiences, preferences, and any accommodations that may help you feel supported throughout this process. Your information will be handled with the utmost sensitivity and respect.

The Package
Salary: $150,000 – $160,000
Benefits & Pension: Health & Dental Benefits, Pension, Vacation and Holiday closure in December
Location: In-office in Millbrook, Nova Scotia
Travel: As needed throughout Nova Scotia and Nationally
The successful candidate will be required to obtain or upgrade the following certifications: Vulnerable Sector, Criminal Record Check

Application Details
Click “Apply” to be redirected to P4G’s website to Apply Today!

Applications will be accepted until 12:00 pm on March 21, 2025.

Please include a cover letter that speaks to your experience and offers a glimpse of your personality. Wela’lin!

What To Expect
Placemaking 4G (P4G) is a Social Enterprise Community Interest Company (CIC) in Nova Scotia dedicated to human-centred recruiting and fostering inclusive workplaces. We connect purpose-driven organizations with talent that aligns with their mission, creating spaces where people feel valued and supported.
We closely review all applications and read each cover letter (we promise).
If you are selected as a top candidate, expect an invitation to chat with a Lead Placemaker from P4G. This is someone who treats the recruitment process non-traditionally. We want to get to know what inspires you.
Selected candidates will proceed to a virtual interview with the Lead P4G Placemaker and 2-3 organization representatives.
Finalists may participate in a second-round interview or skills activity (virtual or in person).
P4G will check employment references and assist in presenting an offer to the successful candidate.

Required languages: English

Education level: Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, First Nations Governance, or a similar discipline

Required skills: Leadership, Executive Leadership, Indigenous Knowledge, Economic Development, Business Development, Interest Holder Engagement, Community Involvement, Compliance & Ethics

Closest intersection: Millbrook, NS