INTERNAL POSTING: Special Advisor

Assembly of First Nations • Ottawa, ON

23h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Special Advisor reports to the Director of Languages and Learning and plays a key role in research, policy development, political engagement, project coordination, and communication within the Sector. This position supports the advancement of AFN’s priorities through strategic advice, relationship building, and preparation of key materials and events.

Requirements

• Graduate degree in languages, education, or related field preferred; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• 5–7 years of directly relevant senior experience.
• Strong background in First Nations political and policy contexts.
• Proven ability to work with federal, provincial, territorial, urban, and international governments and collaborators.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to demonstrate leadership, sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and planning skills.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

• Manages, plans and organizes project/contract priorities and goals, coordinate activities, and ensure cooperation between external service providers, relevant policy stakeholders, at the national and international levels.
• Conducts research and develops/assists policy briefings, reports, and proposals.
• Leads discussion groups and synthesizes input into policy positions and written materials.
• Assists in preparing AFN resolutions and workplans.
• Provides updates to the Director and shares relevant internal and external planning, policy, funding, and event information.
• Develop and maintain issues, data and file management systems.
• Supports team coordination by assigning and monitoring tasks as required.
• Shares relevant updates and information within the branch and the AFN.
• Builds and maintains strong and productive relationships with First Nations leaders, specialists, and organizations.
• Builds and maintains strong and productive relationships with collaborators in federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, and international governments.
• Advises the Director on external issues impacting AFN priorities.
• Assists in preparing high-quality materials for the National Chief’s Office (e.g., briefing notes, speaking notes, presentations, and correspondence).
• Supports planning and participation in First Nations-in-Assembly meetings held each July and December.
• Assists with materials for milestone events such as pre-budget submissions, annual and assembly reports.
• Supports budget proposal development and reporting obligations for government funding.
• Makes high-level recommendations to the Sector Director, in consultation with relevant team members.
• Accountable to the Director for policy input. Errors or omissions in judgment may significantly affect First Nations communities and AFN policy initiatives.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior