CORE FUNCTION:

This position will focus on establishing and enhancing relationships, working directly and independently

with members of the community to enable a consistent and comprehensive approach to providing

information and support to Indigenous communities and organizations who are seeking to purchase land, explore economic development opportunities, or create urban reserves in Saskatoon.

SCOPE AND MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Establishes and leads programs and processes to develop and enhance relationships with Indigenous organizations and communities, including First Nations and Métis communities, and economic and business groups.

2. Maintains relationships with a variety of Indigenous community groups and organizations, as well as other orders of government to establish regular, open, and transparent dialogue.

3. Leads discussions with Indigenous communities and organizations related to proposed land use planning and development projects, plans, and policy changes for consideration by City Council.

4. Communicates with members of the Indigenous community, broader public and City Council to interpret land use policy, assist in policy implementation and bylaw compliance.

5. Provides direct support for Indigenous led economic and land development inquiries.

6. Provides direct support for urban reserve creation.

7. Manages projects, which may include the supervision of staff and coordinating the work of others.

8. Prepares reports and presentation, which may include presenting to Municipal Planning Commission, Committees of Council and City Council.

9. Maintains expertise related to current and anticipated trends in land use planning, land development, and economic development, with specific attention to trends related to Indigenous communities and organizations.

10. Supports inclusive engagement in a variety of City led planning initiatives.

11. Provides professional and technical support to senior staff.

12. Manages politically sensitive as well as confidential information.

13. Performs other related duties as assigned.

RELATIONSHIP:

Reports to the Section Manager, Long Range Planning

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree in planning is preferred, however relevant education and experience in a related field may also be considered

• Registered Professional Planner (RPP) and Member of the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP) or a professional designation in a related, equivalent professional organization. Must be eligible to attain provincial membership upon hire.

• Five years related professional planning, economic or land development experience.

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, standards and practices related to urban and regional planning and land development, as well as rights holder and stakeholder engagement activities on a variety of matters related to planning and land development.

• Thorough knowledge of relevant legislation as it applies to Indigenous planning and development interests, as well as municipal by-laws, legislation and regulations, including such things as the First Nation Land Management Act, Planning and Development Act, 2007, and others.

• Understanding the significance of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Canada, Calls to Action, the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Calls to Justice, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Saskatchewan Treaty Land Entitlement Framework Agreement would be considered an asset.

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of Indigenous ways of knowing of the land and the significance of the land.