Business Development Officer

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  • CompanyChippewas of the Thames First Nation
  • Job TypeEconomic Development
  • Required ExperienceProgressive experience in business development, project coordination, or strategic partnerships (experience with Indigenous communities/organizations is a strong asset).
  • Job TypeFull Time
  • Education / CredentialsPost-secondary degree/diploma in Business Administration, Economic Development, Indigenous Governance, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
  • ResumeRequired
  • Cover LetterRequired
  • Application Deadline11/19/2025

Job Description

Position Title:

Business Development Officer

Department:
Administration

Hours of Work:
37.5 hours per week, working onsite 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location:
320 Chippewas Road, Muncey, ON

Posting Date:
Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Posting Closes:
Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Summary:

Reporting to the Administrative Officer, the Business Development Officer advances economic growth and community self-sufficiency for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation (Deshkan Ziibiing).

As a key member of the Project Team within the Prosperity Development sector, this role leads strategic initiatives that foster business development, build skills training pathways, and expand employment opportunities for members. Operating in a multidisciplinary environment, the incumbent assesses, coordinates, and implements priority initiatives and external development proposals; conducts due diligence and project reviews; and cultivates partnerships with investors, developers, and industry leaders that reflect the Nation’s values.

Through community engagement and collaboration across programs, the position drives measurable outcomes in job creation, revenue generation, and capacity building to support long-term prosperity for Deshkan Ziibiing.

Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate and assess prospective projects for fit with community priorities by completing feasibility reviews (financial, operational, risk, cultural/environmental) and providing clear recommendations.

  • Review proposals, pro formas, and supporting documents to evaluate viability and alignment with COTTFN values and governance, and negotiate terms where appropriate.

  • Build and maintain relationships with governments, industry, Indigenous organizations, and post-secondary partners; draft and track MOUs, contribution agreements, and vendor contracts.

  • Advance entrepreneurship, local employment, and capacity building through programming, mentorship, and procurement opportunities that benefit members and community businesses.

  • Establish KPIs, monitor and evaluate active initiatives, and prepare briefings and strategic recommendations for leadership/Council on progress, risks, and next steps.

  • Identify and secure grants and strategic funding; prepare proposals and budgets, and ensure compliance, reporting, and close-out with funders.

  • Guide community members and entrepreneurs on business planning, financing, licensing, and regulatory navigation across First Nation, provincial, and federal requirements.

  • Promote initiatives that integrate environmental stewardship, land-based knowledge, and cultural protocols into economic development.

  • Maintain accurate project files, CRM/trackers, financials, and documentation to support accountability and audits.

  • Represent COTTFN in meetings, forums, and negotiations related to economic development and consultation, ensuring the Nation’s interests are protected and advanced.

Experience and Qualifications

Qualifications:

  • Post-secondary degree/diploma in Business Administration, Economic Development, Indigenous Governance, or a related field; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

  • Progressive experience in business development, project coordination, or strategic partnerships (experience with Indigenous communities/organizations is a strong asset).

  • Solid understanding of Indigenous rights and governance, consultation/accommodation frameworks, and community-driven economic development models.

  • Ability to review pro formas and budgets, assess feasibility and risk, and prepare clear recommendations; experience with grants/contribution agreements and reporting.

  • Proven capacity to build relationships and work with governments, industry, and funders; familiarity with MOUs, contracts, and due diligence.

  • Strong facilitation and presentation skills with the ability to work across departments and translate complex information into plain-language, culturally appropriate materials.

  • Advanced Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint, Teams, Outlook) proficiency; experience with CRM/project tools is a strong asset.

  • Familiarity with Deshkan Ziibiing’s values, laws, and strategic priorities is a strong asset, along with commitment to respectful engagement with Elders/Knowledge Keepers and OCAP®-aligned data practices.

How to Apply

Additional Information:

Hiring of Indigenous people will be given preference. Please identify if you are Indigenous.

Interested applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, three work-related references, and photocopies of education documents to:

📧 [email protected]
OR
📮 320 Chippewas Road, Muncey, ON N0L 1Y0

Please indicate “Business Development Officer” in your application.