Job Description

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is committed to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and, where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity. The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Why Work with AFN?

At the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), we value our employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and rewarding workplace. When you join our team, you'll enjoy:

Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums

- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN.

Generous Pension Matching

- A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future.

Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days

- Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year.

Professional Development Support

- Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career.

Wellness Funds

- Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses.

Modern, Central Location

- Our bright, collaborative office is located in the Sun Life Building in downtown Ottawa, with Parliament LRT Station right in the building for an easy commute.

Convenient Amenities

- Steps away from cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Meaningful Work

- Be part of a national organization advocating for First Nations, making a positive difference for communities across Canada.

Collaborative & Inclusive Culture

- Work alongside passionate, dedicated colleagues in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Position Overview

The AFN is seeking an experienced and strategic General Counsel to serve as the senior legal advisor to the organization and a key member of the executive leadership team. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the General Counsel leads the Legal Sector and is responsible for overseeing all legal services and providing expert legal advice to the National Chief, Executive Committee, and AFN Secretariat. The General Counsel plays a critical role in aligning legal work with AFN's political mandates and priorities. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading legal strategy, managing complex litigation and legal risk, supporting organizational governance, and ensuring AFN's legal positions reflect and protect the rights, interests, and priorities of First Nations across Canada.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advisor & Executive Counsel


Serve as the principal legal advisor to the CEO, National Chief, and Executive Committee. Advise on legal issues related to Indigenous rights, constitutional law, administrative law, governance, employment, and contracts. Interpret and provide legal advice on Chiefs-in-Assembly Resolutions, policies, and governance frameworks. Assess and manage legal risks and support strategic decision-making across the organization.




Legal Sector Leadership


Lead and mentor a high-performing Legal team by managing staff, supporting development, and overseeing strategic planning, budgeting, and reporting. Convene and lead Legal Sector meetings and contribute to all-staff and director-level strategic meetings. Ensure legal operations align with AFN's political and organizational objectives. Provide legal advice and assistance during Annual General Assemblies and Special Chiefs Assemblies.




Litigation Oversight


Represent the AFN in complex litigation and manage external counsel in litigation matters. Lead development of litigation strategies and oversee pleadings, affidavits, factums, and submissions. Draft and supervise preparation of court materials and responses to national legal issues.




Internal Collaboration and Organizational Support


Review and approve legal agreements, contracts, MOUs, and funding agreements. Collaborate with AFN Sectors including HR on employment law matters, and advise Finance, Communications, and Policy sectors on legal implications in their work. Support internal policy compliance and corporate governance activities.




External Engagement and Advocacy


Represent AFN in legal, governmental, and advocacy forums, including parliamentary committees, inquiries, and policy panels. Build and maintain strong relationships with First Nations leadership and community legal representatives. Draft and review speaking notes, briefing notes, memos, and reports for the National Chief, Executive, and Assembly meetings. Contribute to public understanding of First Nations legal issues and AFN's work through strategic communications.




Governance and Legislative Affairs


Monitor, analyze, and interpret relevant legislation and jurisprudence affecting First Nations and AFN's mandate. Provide leadership on legal policy development, treaty implementation, and nation-to-nation governance frameworks. Deliver training and build legal literacy within AFN and among First Nations partners.




Communications and Records Management


Oversee the preparation and filing of legal records and sector documentation in AFN's records management system (e.g., Laserfiche). Support knowledge transfer across the Legal Sector and provide legal literacy resources to staff. Ensure legal updates are communicated in both official languages and on schedule.

Qualifications

Education and Certification


LL.B. or J.D. from a recognized Canadian law school. Member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) or eligible for transfer.




Experience


Minimum 10 years of progressive legal experience. Demonstrated litigation experience, especially in Indigenous, constitutional, or administrative law. Experience working with or advising First Nations governments, organizations, or communities. Proven experience managing legal teams and developing organizational legal strategy.




Skills and Abilities


Strong knowledge of Canadian law, including Indigenous, constitutional, administrative, corporate, employment, and human rights law. Strong understanding of First Nations legal, political, and governance contexts, including treaties and Indigenous legal traditions. Proven ability to provide strategic legal advice in politically sensitive and high-stakes environments. Skilled in litigation oversight, legal drafting, and managing complex legal files. Strong leadership, mentorship, and organizational development abilities. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with strong public speaking abilities. Proficient in legal research, contract negotiation, and intergovernmental relations. High cultural competency and emotional intelligence. Proficient in Microsoft Office, legal research platforms, and records management systems. Able to manage multiple priorities under pressure with professionalism and discretion.

Working Conditions

Primarily office-based, with regular travel for legal proceedings, advocacy work, and engagement sessions. Availability for irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required.

Physical and Mental Demands

Prolonged periods of focused legal work and computer use. Ability to manage high-stakes legal matters with sound judgment and professionalism. Requires emotional resilience and discretion in politically sensitive environments. Must adapt to shifting mandates and maintain calm under pressure.

Location Requirement

This is an in-office position based in Ottawa, Ontario. The successful candidate must be in, or willing to relocate to, Ottawa. The AFN provides financial support for relocation to assist with the transition.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position through the AFN website: https://afn.ca/about-us/work-with-afn/. This position will remain open until it is filled.



Thank you for your interest in employment with the AFN! We truly appreciate your application and will carefully review your resume. As we receive a high number of applications, we want to inform you that we can only contact shortlisted candidates.



AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.