The BC Nurses’ Union (BCNU) is a strong, dynamic voice for nurses and nursing in British Columbia, representing more than 50,000 members. BCNU provides collective agreement negotiation and support to its members, as well as professional and advocacy services in the field of research, clinical practice, leadership and education. As the voice of the nursing profession in the province, we advocate for nurses and patients to ensure safe, quality, public health care for all.
Job Title: Executive Assistant, Council and Committees
Excluded Full-Time
Starting: September/October 2025
Salary Range: $70,000 to $80,000 plus an annual premium
Posting Period: Open until filled
Position Overview
This is a fast-paced, high-level position within the executive office at the BC Nurses’ Union. The incumbent is responsible for providing administrative support for the Council Board and their committees to enable Council to efficiently and effectively fulfill their governance responsibilities.
This position requires the ability to multi-task, deliver on deadlines and may require irregular and/or long hours prior to and during events. The Executive Assistant must be able to cope with unpredictability and ambiguity as new initiatives and directions are a reality of this office. Significant diplomacy, political acumen and professionalism is required as the individual is expected to communicate and work with a variety of staff, senior BCNU leadership, elected member representatives and external contacts. Confidentiality and discretion are critical in this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Performs administrative duties for the Council Board and Committees, including but not limited to calendar management; producing various documents (e.g. correspondence, spreadsheets, presentations); arranging meetings, travel, accommodation, and catering; processing Board development requests and invoices; and administering BCNU member specific funds if needed.
- Works closely with the President and key staff in planning Council meetings, including the creation and timely distribution of the Board package.
- Attends Council meetings and serves as the primary staff support, ensuring all components of the meeting (in-person and virtual) are in order and run smoothly.
- May take and prepare meeting minutes and/or other relevant information. Follows established process for approval, distribution and follow-up on action items arising out of the meetings.
- Provides support to Council committee meetings as needed, ensuring committee records are kept and filed.
- Establishes administrative systems and processes and ensures effective and efficient organization and flow of work. Develops and implements process/system improvements to accommodate new and anticipated requirements.
- Organizes and maintains Council related documents, including a Board calendar, minutes, action registries, Committee lists, terms of reference and other relevant reference materials.
- Assists with the onboarding of new Council members and the planning and implementation of Council education sessions.
- May research venues for Council functions as needed.
- Attends various union functions as required to ensure smooth operation, e.g. BCNU Convention.
- Assists with projects or events related to Council as required.
- Maintains respectful and collaborative relationships with board members, senior leadership, staff, members and external contacts.
- Maintains strict confidentiality with all materials, and exercises professionalism and discretion when interfacing with internal and external parties.
- May assist elected officials or other senior executives with coordinating or administering organizational initiatives.
- Works collaboratively with other Executive Assistants and provides backup as assigned.
- Travels for Council and other related meetings and activities where necessary.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Candidate Qualifications
- Five years’ progressive experience supporting senior level executives. Experience working with a large Board, various committees, and/or government officials would be an asset.
- Proficiency in minute taking, including responsibility for following up on action items.
- Demonstrates professionalism, tact, diplomacy, and discretion in dealing with sensitive and/or confidential issues.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships amongst all levels of the organization. An adaptable and flexible team player.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to manage a high volume of correspondence and to research, summarize, format and index information.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills. Ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and work under pressure.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Approaches work with a positive, proactive, solutions-focused outlook.
- Advanced technical skills, including MS Office programs and other office productivity tools, with an aptitude to learn new software programs and systems. Experience with Board management tools (e.g., Board Effects) is an asset.
Required Competencies
- Dealing with ambiguity
- Approachability
- Composure
- Political savvy
- Multi-tasking
- Organizing/priority setting
- Time management
- Member focused
- Teamwork
- Written Communication
Why work at BCNU?
BCNU speaks up and speaks out for safe, quality, public health care. We pride ourselves in providing protection, representation, and services to all members and in supporting our employees. Our organizational values are rooted in respect, integrity, and collaboration, guiding us in building a workplace culture where everyone feels they can bring their authentic selves to work. We recognize and prioritize cultural and psychological health and safety. As part of our dedication to equity and justice, we honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and are actively engaged in advancing Indigenous-focused initiatives.
We offer an inclusive workplace with a comprehensive range of benefits and resources to promote well-being, career growth and work-life balance. This includes but is not limited to:
- Competitive compensation and extended health and dental benefits package
- Municipal Pension Plan
- 4 weeks vacation entitlement to start
- Hybrid work environment
- Education and professional development opportunities
If you are seeking an opportunity to join a passionate and committed team, we’d like to hear from you!
Please also reach out to us at hr@bcnu.org to let us know of any accommodations you require through our application and selection process