Health and Wellness Manager

Reports to: Executive Director
Salary Range: Salary will be based on approved salary grid and commensurate with experience.
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, with flexibility pending diverse needs of the position
Start Date: April 1st, 2025

About Us: Skowkale First Nation is a dynamic and forward-thinking community, deeply rooted in the voices and needs of our people. Our strength and success are derived from a strong connection to our culture and community. We are a close-knit organization, where our team members are regarded as family and are continuously supported in their personal and professional growth. This enables us to better serve both our team and the broader community. We gather at least quarterly to celebrate our achievements and rejuvenate, ensuring we remain committed to the important work we do.

Position Overview: The Health and Wellness Manager will play a vital role in promoting the physical, mental, and cultural well-being of Skowkale First Nations community. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing health and wellness programs that are culturally appropriate and responsive to the unique needs of Skowkale First Nations people. The role requires strong leadership skills, knowledge of community health practices, and an understanding of the cultural, social, and historical context of Indigenous community.
Responsibilities and Duties:
Program Development and Management:
•Design, implement, and oversee health and wellness programs focused on physical health, mental health, substance use prevention, and chronic disease management.
•Ensure programs are culturally appropriate and reflect the values, traditions, and needs of the Skowkale First Nations communities served.
•Collaborate with local healthcare providers, Indigenous organizations, and community leaders to develop tailored programs and access services to meet community needs.
Community Engagement:
•Engage with community members to understand their health needs and priorities, ensuring programs are community-driven and accessible.
•Facilitate regular consultations and feedback sessions with community members to assess the effectiveness of health and wellness initiatives.
•Build and maintain positive relationships with leaders, Elders, youth, and families to foster a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Health Education and Promotion:
•Provide culturally relevant health education to community members on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and substance use prevention.
•Promote wellness initiatives that incorporate traditional healing practices alongside conventional medical care.
•Organize workshops, training, and events to raise awareness about the importance of self-care, disease prevention, and community health.
Collaborative Partnerships:
•Work closely with external stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare institutions, and other First Nations community to leverage resources and support health programs.
•Advocate for the health and wellness needs of First Nations community at the local, regional, and national levels.
Data Collection and Reporting:
•Collect, analyze, and report on health data to monitor the effectiveness of health and wellness programs.
•Prepare reports for funding agencies, community leadership, and other stakeholders to highlight program outcomes and impact.
•Use evidence-based practices to continuously improve health interventions and services.
Leadership and Team Management:
•Lead a team of health and wellness professionals, ensuring that all team members are supported and have the resources to succeed.
•Provide training and professional development opportunities for staff to enhance their skills in culturally competent care and wellness practices.
Cultural Competency:
•Integrate traditional knowledge and cultural practices into health and wellness initiatives.
•Promote respect for Indigenous cultures, languages, and customs within the organization and the programs delivered.
•Ensure that all programs are aligned with the values and traditions of the First Nations community served.

Qualifications and Skills:
•Bachelor’s degree in public health, Social Work, Nursing, Indigenous Studies, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
•Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in health promotion, community health, or wellness management, preferably within Indigenous community.
•Knowledge of First Nations health issues, cultural practices, and community-based approaches to health and wellness.
•Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse groups, including community members, healthcare providers, and government agencies.
•Proven ability to develop and manage programs, including budget management and resource allocation.
•Experience working with First Nations governments, organizations, and stakeholders.
•Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a collaborative and culturally sensitive manner.
•Strong organizational and time management skills.

Working Conditions:
•This position may require occasional travel for meetings, advocacy and networking.
•Flexibility in hours, including evening and weekend work, may be required to accommodate community needs and events.
•This position is located at The’i:tseliya Health and Community Centre, situated on Skowkale First Nation land.

Terms of Employment:
•Employee signs a standard form contract of employment.
•To ensure the health and safety of all employees and members of the community we have adopted a mandatory vaccination policy.
•If no exemption applies, deductions will be made at source according to law.
•If applicable, employer contributions will be made at prescribed rates to CPP, EI, WCB and vacation pay.

Application: This position is open until filled. We will review applications and select candidates for interviews on an ongoing basis to ensure we find the right individual for the role. We will contact selected candidates directly to schedule interviews.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants should send a resume and cover letter outlining how they meet the specific requirements of the position to careers@skowkalefn.com .

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference may be given to candidates of Indigenous ancestry s16(1) CHRA. and have knowledge of local First Nations traditional customs and practices.