Health Director

About Paqtnkek Mi'kmaw Nation

Paqtnkek Mi'kmaw Nation is committed to promoting the health, wellness, and quality of life of our community through culturally grounded, community-driven programs and services. We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and collaborative leader to oversee the continued growth and excellence of our Health Department.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Health Director provides strategic leadership, operational management, and oversight of all health programs and services delivered by Paqtnkek Mi'kmaw Nation. The successful candidate will foster a culturally safe, trauma-informed, and community-centered approach while ensuring programs meet the evolving needs of community members.

Key Responsibilities

Provide leadership, supervision, and support to Health Department staff.

Develop, implement, and evaluate health programs and strategic initiatives.

Ensure services are culturally appropriate and reflect Mi'kmaw values, traditions, and community priorities.

Manage departmental budgets, funding agreements, financial reporting, and program accountability.

Prepare reports for Chief and Council, funding agencies, and community stakeholders.

Build and maintain positive relationships with Indigenous Services Canada, Nova Scotia Health, community organizations, and other partners.

Lead program planning, policy development, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, funding agreements, accreditation standards, and organizational policies.

Promote integrated approaches to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Support emergency preparedness and health response planning.

Foster a positive, respectful, and collaborative workplace culture.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Health Administration, Nursing, Public Health, Social Work, Health Sciences, or a related discipline. A Master's degree is considered an asset.

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive management experience in health services, preferably within a First Nations or Indigenous organization.

Demonstrated experience managing staff, budgets, and multiple funding agreements.

Knowledge of Indigenous health systems, social determinants of health, and trauma-informed care.

Strong understanding and appreciation of Mi'kmaw culture, traditions, and community wellness approaches.

Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic reporting systems.

Requirements

The successful candidate must provide:

Criminal Record Check

Vulnerable Sector Check

Valid Nova Scotia Driver's License

Reliable transportation

What We Offer

Competitive salary commensurate with education and experience.

Comprehensive group benefits package.

Pension plan.

Professional development opportunities.

Meaningful work supporting the health and wellness of the Paqtnkek community.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from qualified Indigenous applicants. Preference may be given to qualified Mi’kmaq and other Indigenous candidates in accordance with applicable policies and legislation.