Job Description

About Membertou & MTCC

Membertou is a progressive, urban Mi'kmaq community on Unama'ki (Cape Breton Island). The Membertou Trade & Convention Centre (MTCC) is a flagship venue for conferences, trade shows, concerts, banquets, and community gatherings--working closely with the Hampton Inn and Membertou Heritage Park to deliver seamless, culturally respectful guest experiences.

The Opportunity

The General Manager (GM) is the senior executive responsible for the overall performance of the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre. This role owns strategy, commercial growth, operations, guest experience, financial stewardship, people & culture, and community relationships. The GM leads a multi?department team (Culinary/Kitchen & Kiju's, Sales & Marketing, Event Services/AV, Box Office, Facilities) and partners across Membertou to deliver exceptional events and sustainable growth.

What You will Lead

Strategy & Growth -- Own MTCC's vision, annual business plan, budgets, revenue targets, pricing, and margin management; build a balanced pipeline across major conferences and short?cycle meetings/catering.

Operations & Guest Experience -- Ensure flawless, culturally respectful event delivery; champion service standards, housekeeping, food safety, and OH&S.

Sales & Partnerships -- Drive proactive sales, lead key bids, and deepen partnerships with hotels, tourism bodies, and community stakeholders.

People & Culture -- Coach department heads; build team capability, morale, retention, and service culture; uphold respectful workplace practices.

Community & Reputation -- Nurture relationships with Chief & Council Elders, and community partners; represent MTCC at industry and community events.

Risk, Safety & Compliance -- Oversee contracts, liquor and health regulations, steward accessibility, emergency readiness, and vendor compliance.

Priority Outcomes (First 12-18 Months)

Win-now business: launch a targeted sales plan for short-cycle catering/meeting revenue while progressing major conference bids.

Renovation readiness: create a phased plan to navigate any renovations with minimal business disruption.

Team development: strengthen training, cross-coverage, and leadership effectiveness; clarify roles and service standards.

System upgrades: tighten SOPs, event handoffs, inventory/cost controls, and post?event debriefs for continuous improvement.

Community onboarding: meet Council and Elders; embed cultural humility and community priorities in operations.

Skills & Qualifications:

Progressive senior leadership in complex, multi?department venues (convention Centre, conference hotel, arena, performing arts, or similar) with full P&L responsibility.

Strength in sales strategy, pipeline development, pricing, forecasting, and margin management.

Proven event?day operational excellence; able to "jump in" where needed and remain calm under pressure.

Financial acumen: budgeting, cost control, and performance reporting.

Relationship builder with cultural humility; experience partnering with Indigenous communities is an asset.

Assets

Professional credentials: CMP (Events Industry Council) and/or CEM (CAEM/IAEE).

Compliance: Nova Scotia Serve Right (responsible beverage service) and Food Handler/Food Safety certification (or obtained within 60 days).

Familiarity with the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act and accessible event planning.

Work Conditions

Non?standard hours (evenings/weekends/holidays) based on event schedule; on?site leadership during major events is expected.

What Our Team Values in This Leader

Approachable, visible, hands?on leadership--present during key events and supportive of staff.

Clear, timely communication and decisive, fair decision?making.

High service standards and pride in MTCC's reputation and cultural values.

Accountability for results with strong follow?through and continuous improvement mindset.

Team builder who develops others, addresses issues early, and fosters a respectful, safe workplace.

Compensation & Benefits

Membertou offers competitive compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. A detailed compensation range can be discussed with shortlisted candidates.

Preference is given to Indigenous peoples in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preferences of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.

To Apply: Submit your cover letter and resume to:

Membertou Human Resources Department

Attention: Scott Thomas

47 Autwen Ma'sl Awti

Membertou, NS B1S-2P5 Or via e-mail to:

jobs@membertou.ca

: Friday, November 21st, 2025, at 4:30 PM AST.

Thank you for applying, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Membertou reserves the right to pause, extend or revoke this posting at any time without notice.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Dental care Disability insurance Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off RRSP match Vision care
Work Location: In person