About Musqueam
We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca
Position Summary
The General Counsel works as directed by the Chief Administrative Officer (“CAO”) to provide strategic and practical legal advice to Chief and Council and the administration. The General Counsel will serve as the principal internal legal advisor and will be responsible for identifying and managing legal risk, protecting Musqueam's legal interests, and supporting sound governance and objectives related to the Musqueam Strategic Plan.
This position is required to have deep knowledge of Aboriginal rights and legal matters and will be able to provide considered legal advice in a complex and evolving governance office as we move into Self Governance.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Communicate with, provide legal advice, identify risks, and draft legal policy, and related documents for the CAO, various administrative departments, and Chief and Council;
- Support various negotiations and advise on the interpretation and implementation of various agreements ensuring Musqueam’s rights and values are protected and advanced;
- Provide legal advice to Chief & Council on governance matters (including council resolutions, bylaws, policies, and fiduciary obligations) and present options and recommendations on course of action;
- Manage all legal queries either by completing them, delegate to internal legal staff, or external legal counsel as required;
- Manage the legal department, various departmental legal expenditures for external legal counsel;
- Supervise and mentor legal staff within the department, including reviewing and providing feedback;
- Implement strategies and processes to proactively address legal and compliance risks for the Band, and;
- Other related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Law Degree (JD or LLB);
- Minimum 7-10 years in Aboriginal Law;
- Membership in good standing in the Law Society of British Columbia;
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- Thorough understanding of Indigenous and Aboriginal politics and law, including the Indian Act;
- Knowledge of First Nations business and administrative environment;
- Willingness to learn the Musqueam Land Code, bylaws, and laws;
- Knowledge of on-reserve governance and self-government transition;
- Demonstrated ability to proactively provide ideas, advice, and solutions relative to legal issues;
- Able to work independently and in teams with diverse skills, knowledge, and educational backgrounds;
- Strong organizational skills and ability to juggle multiple priorities under tight deadlines;
- Able to take on new responsibilities as required; and
- Demonstrated a high level of integrity and management of confidential and sensitive matters.
Working Conditions
- The work is performed in an office environment; and
- Flexible hours of work to attend late night Chief and Council and Committee meetings.
Why work for Musqueam?
Our success as a leader as a First Nations Government is built on the traditional teachings of our people, initiative and dedication of the Musqueam Indian Band. Providing a highly engaged traditional government that is member focused.
- Competitive salary
- Training and career development
- Business casual environment
- Community fitness and gym access
- Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan
Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services
