Musqueam Lands Director

About Musqueam

We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca 

Position Summary: The Lands Governance Director administers interests in Musqueam land and natural resources consistent with the Land Code and related agreements. The Manager is responsible for the comprehensive management of the MIB Lands Office and Land Registry relating to the Reserve lands under delegated authority from Council for the Musqueam Indian Band. The incumbent manages all aspects of the MIB Lands Office including the management of lands staff and development of the annual departmental budget, work plans and policies and procedures. The Manager, Lands reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.

Roles & Responsibilities
•Carries out all responsibilities of the Director of Lands as set out in the Musqueam Indian BandLand Code
•Reviews and processes land lease agreements (residential, commercial, retail, industrial agreements), subleases, permits, rights of way, additions to Reserve proposals, allotments, transfers, mortgages, etc., and other legal documentation pertaining the Musqueam Indian BandReserve lands
•Provides guideline information as to the process for a proponent to register a lease or permit on Reserve lands
•Oversees registrations in the First Nations Lands Registry System and Land Registry searches for membership and clients
•Communicates with lessees and Band membership on land and land use issues, and with trustees, executors, and solicitors on land disposition
•Assists and provides information to Chief & Council on land and land use issues
•Where appropriate facilitate processing of estates and communication with AANDC about land estates
•Approves all documentation as to form under the Land Code prior to registration
•Monitors compliance with contractual terms, including construction, environmental requirements, rent collection, default and cancellation of leases
•Facilitate rent reviews for leases and permits on Musqueam Indian Band lands and monitors collection made on behalf of the lessees
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• Facilitates compliance with environmental review requirements set out in the Land Code
• Researches, verifies and compiles land status reports on Reserve lands for distribution to Natural Resources Canada, land surveyors (training is ongoing and as required), membership, clients and interested parties in order for them to determine land tenure, accessibility and feasibility of a land transaction
• Develops and maintains effective working relationships with colleagues, the Land Management Committee, and agencies
• Works closely with the Musqueam Indian Band Land Management Committee on Land Code and Reserve land matters
• Oversees and monitors Lands Office expenditures in accordance with the approved budget
• Manages Lands Office staff
• Conducts annual staff evaluations
• Other related duties as required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
• Skill and knowledge usually attained by successful completion of a Post-Secondary degree or certificate program in administration, community planning, lands and resource management or related disciplines, and at least 3 years’ experience managing Reserve lands, or an equivalent combination of skill, knowledge and experience
• Successful completion of the Lands Management Certificate Program or similar course in an accredited program would be preferred
• Training or experience in developing and managing budgets
• Considerable high-level contacts within federal, provincial and municipal governments, other First Nations organizations, funding agencies, banks and in the non-profit sector
• Knowledge and experience of similar program delivery in the context of First Nations culture and history
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent knowledge and experience in computers
• Ability to use tact and good judgment in dealing with sensitive and complex issues
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
• Willingness to travel for meetings on occasion
• Valid driver’s license access to a vehicle for work purposes
• Criminal Records Check

Working Conditions
• Work is performed in an office environment, typical hours are monday to friday 830am to 430pm, however evenings and weekends may be required.

Why work for Musqueam?
Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused.
• Competitive salary
• Training and career development
• Drug and alcohol-free environment
• Business casual environment
• Community fitness and gym access
• Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan
• Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services