Job Description

Position Summary

The Health and Wellness Director provides leadership and oversight for the delivery of comprehensive, culturally safe health and wellness services to the Cheam community.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs that promote holistic well-being, address community-identified priorities, and align with Cheam's Comprehensive Community Plan.

The Director oversees departmental operations, including strategic planning, program administration, financial management, and staff leadership.

The Director also serves as an advocate and liaison, fostering strong relationships with community members, First Nations health organizations, government agencies, and regional partners to ensure Cheam's health priorities are recognized and advanced. This role requires balancing strategic vision with hands-on leadership to ensure effective service delivery, community engagement, and continuous improvement in health outcomes

Duties and Responsibilities

Design, implement, and evaluate health and wellness programs that are culturally safe, community-driven, and aligned with Cheam's Comprehensive Community Plan. Lead the development, implementation, and regular review of a comprehensive community health plan that identifies priorities, sets measurable goals, and responds to emerging health needs. Collaborate with community leaders and members to ensure programs reflect cultural values, traditions, and health priorities; provide education through workshops, seminars, and events. Develop and oversee short- and long-term goals, ensuring programs remain responsive to emerging needs and opportunities. Prepare and monitor budgets, workplans, and financial reports while ensuring compliance with funding agreements and accountability standards Identify and pursue grants and funding opportunities. Build and maintain collaborative relationships with FNHA, ISC, regional health authorities, surrounding Nations, and other partners to strengthen service delivery. Lead, mentor, and support a multidisciplinary health team; foster a positive, inclusive workplace culture. Work with external professionals, agencies, and organizations to provide comprehensive and integrated care. Regularly assess community health needs, evaluate program effectiveness, and advocate for community health priorities with health authorities and funding bodies. Address urgent health issues and coordinate appropriate interventions and support for individuals and families. Manage departmental budgets, staff, and resources to ensure efficient operations. Carry out additional responsibilities as required to meet community and organizational needs.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Health Sciences, or a related field. 5-8 years of recent senior-level experience in a health setting, including program development, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting in health and/or social services. Demonstrated experience in designing, delivering, and evaluating culturally relevant and safe programs and services. Strong understanding of BC First Nations health governance, including the tripartite relationships between Canada, BC, and FNHA, as well as key documents such as:
- Tripartite First Nations Health Plan (2007)

- Resolution 2011-01 and Consensus Paper 2011 (BC First Nations Perspective on New Health Governance)

- Resolution 2012-01 and Consensus Paper 2012 (Navigating the Currents of Change)

- Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nations Health (2011)

Solid knowledge of healthcare procedures, regulations, and compliance requirements. Awareness of historical and intergenerational trauma, colonization, and their ongoing impacts on health and wellness.

Conditions of Work

This is a

temporary, full-time position

. While the standard workweek is Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., attendance may occasionally be required during

evenings and weekends

to support community events, meetings, or urgent health needs. The role involves travel within the region to attend meetings, training, and collaborative sessions with partners and health authorities.

How to Apply

Apply by submitting your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role.

Cheam First Nation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Indigenous Peoples, women, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

As an Indigenous organization, preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants (First Nations, Metis, and Inuit).

All applicants are encouraged to voluntarily self-identify in their application if they are a member of an equity-deserving group.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team at Cheam. We appreciate the time and effort you have made to apply for the role.

Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest and encourage you to apply for future opportunities that match your qualifications.

Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 4-6 months

Pay: $45.00-$50.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person