Job Description

The Position

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The Policy Project Manager plays a key role in supporting the shishalh Nation's governance and administration by developing, reviewing, and analyzing policies, bylaws, procedures, and strategic frameworks. This position ensures that all policies reflect the values, laws, and self-governance priorities of the shishalh Nation, while aligning with legal, regulatory, and intergovernmental standards.

The Candidate:

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Policy Development and Analysis

Conduct research, comparative reviews, and jurisdictional scans to support the development of governance, administrative, and shishalh Nation-specific policies. Draft new policies, bylaws, and procedures that reflect the cultural, legal, and operational priorities of the shishalh Nation. Review and analyze existing policies and recommend updates to reflect current needs and best practices. Integrate shishalh language, teachings, and traditional governance principles where appropriate by working with the Culture Department.

Staff and Stakeholder Engagement

Consult with internal departments, Council, Elders, community members, and external partners to inform policy development, where applicable and required. Facilitate community engagement sessions to ensure policies are reflective of the community voice and Nation priorities, where applicable and required. Prepare summaries and reports for the CAO and Chief and Council decision-making.

Legislative and Regulatory Compliance

Monitor changes to relevant federal, provincial, and Indigenous legislation and assess impacts on shishalh Nation laws and policies. Ensure all policies are legally sound, enforceable, and aligned with the Nation's self-governance agreements and Constitution.

Project Management and Coordination


Project Planning & Scoping

Define objectives, scope, and deliverables Develop a work plan and timeline Identify stakeholders and approval processes Assign roles and responsibilities (RACI matrix)

Policy Audit & Gap Analysis

Review existing policies and assess compliance Identify outdated, redundant, or missing policies Benchmark best practices and legal standards Assign roles and responsibilities (RACI matrix)

Monitoring & Reporting

Track progress against timeline and milestones Provide regular updates to leadership or council Document decisions and changes



Quality Control

Implement version control and editing standards Conduct internal reviews and audits Coordinate legal or HR review if applicable

Implementation Planning

Coordinate rollout and training sessions Develop FAQs, summaries, and user guides Monitor compliance and track adoption

Administration, Documentation and Reporting

Prepare briefing notes, Council reports, implementation plans, and presentation materials. Maintain comprehensive records of policy drafts, consultations, approvals, and revisions. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, documentation, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.



Note: Perform other duties within the scope of the position, as assigned.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

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Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Indigenous Governance, Law, or a related field. Minimum 5 years of experience in policy development, analysis, or government relations--preferably in an Indigenous governance setting. Experience working with or for First Nations governments is strongly preferred. Excellent Project Management experience.
Knowledge, skills and abilities

Deep understanding of Indigenous governance, policy processes, and Crown-Indigenous relations. Knowledge of the shishalh Nation's governance framework, culture, language, and history or a strong willingness to learn. Strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Ability to interpret legislation, agreements, and complex policy issues. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and document management systems. Excellent organizational, time management, and project coordination skills. Strong communication skills, including public speaking, facilitation, and writing. Ability to perform effectively under pressure and during crises. An acceptable Criminal Record Check is required. * Valid Driver's License and access to a reliable car.