Communications & Events Manager

Okanagan Indian Band

Communications & Events Manager
(Hybrid)

KʷU KʷLIW̓T L̓ NQMAPLQS | WE LIVE AT HEAD OF THE LAKE

Located within the unceded territory of the syilx people, the Okanagan Indian Band is comprised of six reserves located in the North Okanagan.
Come join the OKIB Team and enjoy all that the beautiful Okanagan Valley has to offer, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

The OKIB offers a welcoming team environment and a rewarding job experience. You can expect a supportive work environment and a total compensation package which includes:
3 Weeks’ Vacation Pay
Extended Health and Dental Benefits
Employer Matched Pension Plan
15 Statutory Holidays
Paid Winter Holiday Break
Cultural Leave
Retention Bonuses after years of service
15 Paid Sick Days
Paid Personal Leave
Employee Assistance Program
Professional Development Opportunities

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per week

Start Date: ASAP

Deadline for applications: May 15, 2025

JOB SUMMARY
The Communications & Events Manager plays a key role in enhancing the voice, visibility, and engagement of Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB). In collaboration with staff, Chief and Council, and community members, this role is responsible for implementing a comprehensive communications strategy and leading all internal and external communications, media relations, and community-facing events.

The ideal candidate is a strategic storyteller, event planner, and community connector who brings creativity, cultural awareness, and digital expertise to support OKIB’s mission and goals.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
Reports to the Chief Executive Officer

SUPPORTS NEEDED
Strategic Communications & Content Development
Develop and implement integrated communications strategies that align with organizational values and community priorities
Write, edit, and publish content across digital platforms (web, social media, email newsletters) and print materials
Create culturally relevant, inclusive, and engaging content that reflects the voice and vision of the OKIB
Proactively seek out and pitch stories to local and regional media to raise the profile of OKIB programs and services
Provide communications support to leadership and departments, including key messaging, presentation materials, and event planning
Digital Presence & Media Relations
Lead the development and growth of the OKIB’s online presence, ensuring consistency and professionalism across platforms
Monitor media trends and analytics to enhance engagement and reach.
Serve as media liaison, developing press releases, statements, and coordinating interviews or press conferences
Manage emergency communications as needed, working with leadership and local partners.
Event Planning & Community Engagement
Oversee the annual events calendar for OKIB, ensuring all major events are strategically planned, culturally appropriate, and well executed
Coordinate and manage a variety of in-person and virtual events, including community meetings, training sessions, cultural celebrations, and digital expos
Work closely with internal departments and external partners to ensure smooth logistics, communications, and promotion of events
Facilitate post-event follow-up including community feedback, reporting, and documentation.
Provide leadership to the communications function, mentoring staff or contractors where applicable
Recommend tools, technologies, and best practices to enhance communications and engagement outcomes
Develop protocols and templates to support efficient, consistent messaging across departments
Support grant writing teams with storytelling, messaging, and content development for applications and reporting

GENERAL DUTIES
Participates in community events as requested, with the flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends to support events and community initiatives
All employees of OKIB may be required to assist in the delivery of emergency services. Duties during emergencies may differ from regular responsibilities.
Performs duties in accordance with OKIB policies and procedures
Performs other duties as required

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR
You have education, experience, or carry a willingness to learn. You are community-minded, detail-oriented, and an excellent communicator.

Education
Degree or diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a related discipline
Valid BC Class 5 Driver’s Licence and access to a reliable vehicle
An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered

Experience
5+ years of experience in communications, public relations, or event management, preferably in a First Nations or community-based organization
Experience in developing and implementing communication strategies, managing social media and working with diverse audiences is crucial
Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and content creation across multiple formats
Experience with website content management systems, social media scheduling tools, and email marketing platforms
Proven success in planning and executing both digital and in-person events
Strong understanding of Indigenous governance, community engagement practices, and cultural protocols
Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders, including Elders, youth, staff, and leadership

Core Competencies (KSAs & Desired Attributes)
Community Focused – Deep commitment to serving and uplifting community voices and stories, cultural appropriateness and sensitivity towards OKIB and Community
Adaptability – Able to manage multiple projects in a dynamic and evolving environment
Relationship Builder – Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach to leadership,
Strategic Thinker – Ability to align communications strategies with organizational goals
Tech-Savvy – Comfortable using modern communication tools and platforms

DIRECT REPORTS
Communications Coordinator and Events Planner

CLASSIFICATION/PAY SCALE
$35.00 - $45.00 per hour dependant on education and experience

Please send resume, cover letter and references in any one of two ways:

Email: recruiting@okanagan.org
Mail or drop off: 12420 Westside Road, Vernon, BC V1H 2A4
If you have accessibility needs, please contact Hollie Lachuk @ 250-542-4328 ext. 1011

The successful applicant will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check that includes the vulnerable sector and three references

Preference will be given to qualified Aboriginal Applicants as per section 41 of the Human Rights Code.

Education : College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma from a program of 1 year to 2 years
Experience : 5 years or more

Canada
British Columbia
Vernon Show on map Get directions