Director of Justice / Directeur ou Directrice, Justice

Director, Justice

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Employment Status: Permanent Full-Time Position

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Internal and External Competition

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Position Overview

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is seeking an experienced Director to lead the Justice sector and support the advancement of First Nations-led approaches to justice, safety, and well-being. Reporting to the Senior Director, this role involves strategic leadership, planning, advocacy, and collaboration with internal teams and external partners to advance First Nations legal systems, community safety and prevention, and the implementation of the Calls for Justice (MMIWG) and the Calls to Action (TRC).

The Director will work collaboratively with First Nations leadership and partners to advance distinctions-based, rights-informed approaches that reflect First Nations laws, governance, and priorities.

Key Responsibilities

First Nations Justice Systems and Legal Traditions: Support the recognition, revitalization, and implementation of First Nations laws, legal orders, and justice systems, including community-based and culturally grounded approaches.

Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute strategies that address First Nations’ justice issues, ensuring alignment with AFN mandates.

• •Policy Development: Lead the development of
• policies and strategic advice that advance First Nations-led justice systems, community safety, and prevention, including addressing systemic barriers and the overrepresentation of First Nations in colonial justice systems.

Advocacy & Representation: Represent AFN in discussions with government agencies, collaborators, and partners to advocate for the rights and well-being of First Nations families.

Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of professionals, fostering a collaborative and effective work environment.

Collaboration: Work closely with other AFN sectors, the National Chief’s Office, and external organizations to coordinate efforts and share best practices.

Communication: Prepare reports, briefing notes, and presentations to inform partners and support decision-making processes.

Working Conditions

Primarily office-based with regular travel required for meetings, community engagement, and events.

Flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate community needs and organizational priorities.

Physical and Mental Demands

Extended periods of computer use and desk work.

High levels of concentration and emotional resilience are required when addressing complex justice and community safety concerns.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Who Can Apply:

Post-secondary education in Law, Indigenous Studies, Criminology, Public Policy, Governance, Social Sciences, or a related field of study. A combination of education, lived experience, and demonstrated knowledge of First Nations legal traditions and justice systems will be considered. Graduate-level education is an asset.

Demonstrated knowledge of First Nations legal orders, governance systems, and community-based approaches to justice, safety, and well-being is strongly preferred.

Minimum of 7 years experience with First Nations politics and policies and 5 years of experience in a leadership role.

Significant knowledge and understanding of justice issues in First Nation communities, including an understanding of relevant legislation and policies affecting First Nations.

Demonstrated superior writing skills.

Demonstrated successful experience working with federal, provincial, territorial, northern, urban, and international governments and officials.

Demonstrated superior interpersonal & negotiation skills, management ability, leadership, teamwork, and judgement.

Diplomacy, tact, and decision-making ability.

Planning and organization skills.

English is the working language; however, knowledge of an Indigenous language(s) is an asset.

Diversity Statement

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Why Work with AFN?

At the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), we value our employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and rewarding workplace. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums – Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN.

Generous Pension Matching – A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future.

Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days – Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year.

Professional Development Support – Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career.

Wellness Funds – Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses.

Modern, Central Location – Our bright, collaborative office is located in the Sun Life Building in downtown Ottawa, with Parliament LRT Station right in the building for an easy commute.

Convenient Amenities – Steps away from cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Meaningful Work – Be part of a national organization advocating for First Nations, making a positive difference for communities across Canada.

Collaborative & Inclusive Culture – Work alongside passionate, dedicated colleagues in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.

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DIRECTEUR ou DIRECTRICE, JUSTICE

Lieu : Ottawa, Ontario

Type d’emploi : poste permanent à temps plein

Date de clôture : ouvert jusqu’à ce que le poste soit pourvu

Affichage interne et externe

À propos de l’APN

L’APN est une organisation de défense des intérêts des Premières Nations, qui suit des directives et accomplit des mandats conformément aux résolutions adoptées par les Premières Nations-en-Assemblée. En tant qu’organisation nationale de défense des intérêts des Premières Nations, l’APN cherche à promouvoir les droits inhérents et issus des traités des Premières Nations par l’élaboration de politiques, la sensibilisation du public et, le cas échéant, l’élaboration conjointe de lois visant à renforcer les capacités des Premières Nations.

L’APN est née de la volonté des dirigeants des Premières Nations de se doter d’une organisation de défense des intérêts commune, forte et efficace. Des valeurs telles que le respect des droits de la personne, la diversité, la justice et la souveraineté de chaque Première Nation détentrice de droits guident le travail de l’organisat