Assistant Deputy Minister, Indigenous Child Welfare Director

Posting Title
Assistant Deputy Minister, Indigenous Child Welfare Director

Position Classification
Assistant Deputy Minister 2

Union
N/A

Work Options

Location
Multiple Locations, BC CA (Primary)
Victoria, BC V9B 6X2 CA

Salary Range
$190,600 to $236,700 per annum

Close Date
5/30/2024

Job Type
Regular Full Time

Temporary End Date

Ministry/Organization
BC Public Service -> Children & Family Development

Ministry Branch / Division
Indigenous Child Welfare Director

Job Summary

Assistant Deputy Minister, Indigenous Child Welfare Director
Ministry of Children and Family Development
Various Locations in BC

The Indigenous Child Welfare Director (ICWD) is a new Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) role that provides leadership and practice oversight for services delivered under the Child, Family and Community Service Act (CFCSA) for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit families in B.C. The position is being introduced in recognition of the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism on Indigenous family and community systems and to promote renewed practice and relationships grounded in Indigenous self-determination.

The ADM/ICWD works alongside First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners, in recognition of their ongoing leadership in caring for their children in accordance with Indigenous laws and cultural frameworks. This role provides leadership across the Ministry of Children and Family Development on changes to align with Indigenous rights, laws, and priorities. The ADM/ICWD's role and responsibilities will also continue to evolve over time through collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and federal and provincial partners. The ICWD is the central point of contact and legal authority and accountability for child welfare practice for Indigenous children, youth, and families in B.C.

The ADM/ICWD position is grounded in a commitment to upholding Indigenous jurisdiction and implementing the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. They work to integrate into practice the principles of cultural continuity and ensuring equal access to services in alignment with Jordan's Principle. Their work contributes to the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice, and the Declaration Act Action Plan.

The ideal candidate for this role will bring with them a deep-seated knowledge and understanding of Indigenous child and family service history and practice which may be rooted in lived experience. A trusted leader with experience at a senior or executive level, this candidate will base their guidance and relationships on their holistic understanding of the needs of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit children, youth, and families, and the ability to work in collaboration with youth and people with lived and living experience. They understand not only how to champion change, but also how to honour the diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit contexts, cultures, rights, experiences, priorities, and histories across North America and in B.C. Their experience leading and supporting projects related to affirming the rights of Indigenous Peoples will continue to influence how they promote work that is culturally safe, trauma-informed, and grounded in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit worldviews, cultural frameworks, and traditions.

In recognition of the critical importance to this role of a lived understanding of Indigenous communities, history, values, legal orders, and cultural competencies, and in accordance with Section 42 of the BC Human Rights Code, only Indigenous individuals (First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit) with the required combination of education and experience will be considered for this opportunity. Please confirm you meet this requirement in your cover letter.

A complete role description and listing of qualifications is attached. The appointee will be required to consent to a criminal record check.

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to reflect the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our executive team and being part of an innovative, inclusive, and rewarding organization.

To apply please email a clear and concise cover letter and resume in one document (.pdf) to Executive Recruitment at: Executive.Recruitment@gov.bc.ca by May 30, 2024. Please note the application document must be in .pdf format. Email Executive Recruitment if assistance is needed. Thank you to all who express interest.

Job Category
Executive