ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

On behalf of Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society (SCFSS) we are seeking a visionary, culturally grounded Executive Director to lead their organization in Merritt, BC. Scw’exmx Child and Family Services Society (SCFSS) is an Indigenous-led organization based in Merritt, BC, serving the Nlaka'pamux and Syilx peoples. Formed in 1993 when five Nicola Valley bands united to end colonial control over their children, SCFSS is guided by traditional strength, wisdom, and the inherent rights of nłeʔkepmx and syilx peoples.

SCFSS is family-centered and culturally grounded, committed to keeping children connected to their families and communities. Through a monumental shift from protection to prevention, the organization focuses on early intervention, community-based support, and culturally relevant programs for youth, caregivers, and families. These programs emphasize cultural identity, Elder wisdom, and community decision-making to address historical trauma and build strong, resilient families. Their collective goal is clear: empower children, young people, and families by strengthening family and community capacity, ensuring children remain with their families and stay rooted in their culture. They build strong children and families.

The successful candidate will join SCFSS during a time of pivotal changes, community-led period of growth—advancing the shift from protection to prevention and strengthening family services rooted in nłeʔkepmx and syilx traditional knowledge for the Nlaka'pamux and Syilx peoples.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible for the successful leadership and general management of The Society, ensuring alignment with its four guiding directions: Protection to Prevention, Culture of Caring, Growing Our People, and Infrastructure Alignment.

This role requires a leader who embodies Indigenous values, fosters meaningful relationships with member communities, and champions culturally safe, community-led practices. The Executive Director oversees all departments and programs, leads strategic planning, and ensures the delivery of holistic, integrated services that reflect the strengths and needs of the communities they serve.

OVERVIEW OF DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure community input is integrated as a foundational element in strategic planning, program development, and service delivery
• Lead the development and implementation of strategic and operational plans aligned with The Society’s vision and goals.
• Foster respectful and reciprocal relationships with member communities, Elders, and external partners.
• Integrate nłeʔkepmx and syilx ways of knowing into all aspects of leadership and organizational development.
• Ensure legal and cultural compliance across all operations, policies, and procedures.
• While the Executive Director may not require personal delegation under CFCSA, they are responsible for ensuring that delegated staff are properly trained, supervised, and supported, and that all delegated responsibilities are fulfilled in alignment with Indigenous values and legal standards.
• Champion a strengths-based approach to family and community development.
• Lead organizational change initiatives and succession planning.
• Oversee human resources, including recruitment, mentorship, and performance management.
• Manage financial operations, including budgeting, reporting, and fund development.
• Represent The Society in public forums, media, and government relations.
• Promote transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement across all areas of work.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Proven leadership experience in Indigenous social service organizations.
• Strong understanding of Indigenous cultural and traditional approaches.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex operations and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in financial management, policy development, and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and public speaking skills.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and governance structures.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under minimal supervision.
• Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office and other IT platforms.
• Clear Criminal Record check and Ministry of Children and Family Development Prior Contact Check required.
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license without restrictions.
• Willingness to travel and work outside of business hours

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Master's degree in social work or related field (Bachelor’s with 5+ years leadership experience may be considered)
• Minimum five years of progressive leadership experience in Indigenous social services
• Minimum five years' experience supervising staff and managing budgets

MINIMUM REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

• Indigenous Knowledge: applied knowledge nłeʔkepmx and syilx culture and language; sensitivity to the historical and systemic impacts on Indigenous families and communities from intergenerational trauma.
• Critical Thinking: analytical, methodical, fact-based decision-making, with a capacity for creative problem solving, and considering diverse perspectives.
• Business and Strategic Acumen: proficient in business and strategic concepts in application to SCFSS.
• Communication: facilitation and presentation skills, professional business writing, and ability to communicate clearly and confidently with diverse audiences.
• Motivation: self-motivated, capable of effectively motivating others and, high productivity.
• Time Management: highly organized, ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, delegate responsibilities and coordinate multiple tasks to achieve goals.
• Conflict Resolution: anticipates, diffuses, and resolves conflicts while fostering a positive work environment.

This is a full-time, on-site leadership role based in Merritt, BC, working 35 hours per week (Monday–Friday), with relocation allowances available for qualified candidates residing outside the local area. Evening and weekend work may be required to accommodate monthly Board, Executive or Community meetings. The ability and willingness to travel overnight is necessary as there will be provincial and federal meetings that the Executive Director is expected to attend.

SCFSS provides a competitive annual salary ranging from $141,323 to $172,900 ($77.65 to $95.00 per hour), dependent on experience, as well as a comprehensive compensation package that includes participation in the Public Service Pension Plan, extra paid time off—including cultural leave—education reimbursement, and benefits currently administered through Manulife.

As an Indigenous organization serving the nłeʔkepmx and syilx communities, SCFSS prioritizes the hiring of nłeʔkepmx and syilx community members. Following community member priority and pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry.

Please submit your application through MNP’s official process and avoid making speculative approaches to SCFSS or its staff members, as such approaches will not support your application.

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