Manager, Indigenous Relations / Ontario Energy Board

at  The MEARIE Group

QUALIFICATIONS

• University degree in Indigenous Studies, Finance, Law, Business Administration, Engineering, or related discipline.
• A graduate degree or professional designation is an asset.
• 7 years’ experience in the energy sector or related field, with experience working with Indigenous communities.
• Expert knowledge of issues for Indigenous communities and organizations, including the Crown’s Duty to Consult, and social and economic implications of energy sector activities, as well as relevant legislation.
• Demonstrated experience with traditional practices in Indigenous engagement and understanding of Indigenous history and culture.
• Demonstrated experience as a relationship-builder and trusted liaison, by demonstrating integrity and being authentic, collaborative, inclusive, and a creative problem-solver.
• 3 to 5 years of management experience, preferably in a unionized environment.
• Project management and organizational skills to undertake complex assignments and successfully implement projects.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including formal presentations to audiences.
• Ability to comprehend technical and regulatory documents and to communicate technical issues in clear and plain language.
• Knowledge of the OEB’s Environmental Guidelines and adjudicative process.
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Teams.

• Develop and maintain long-term, trust-based relationships with Indigenous communities, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding.
• Serve as the main liaison between the OEB and Indigenous communities, ensuring clear, transparent, and consistent communication.
• Represent the OEB at meetings with Indigenous communities.
• Offer comprehensive support and information to Indigenous communities regarding the OEB’s regulatory processes before, during, and after proceedings.
• Collaborate with OEB staff and other stakeholders to support continuous improvements to the OEB’s processes, and facilitate engagement and participation from Indigenous communities.
• Work with OEB staff and consultants to create and implement a comprehensive engagement strategy.
• Provide expertise, guidance, and strategic advice on issues related to the adequacy of the Duty to Consult in OEB proceedings and relevant policies, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are effectively integrated.
• Review Indigenous Consultation Reports (ICRs) and other relevant evidence, asking interrogatories and making submissions on the adequacy of consultation.
• Collaborate with all levels in the organization on procedural matters and technical issues related to Indigenous matters as needed.
• Maintain expert knowledge of the evolving legal landscape with respect to the Duty to Consult and issues related to Indigenous communities.
• Provide advice and support to leadership on issues related to Indigenous communities.
• Focus on fresh ideas and solutions that promise to deliver the highest levels of quality, service, and value.
• Identify challenges, emerging risks and issues faced by the organization, and recommend solutions to reduce and eliminate challenges.