DIRECTOR, INDIGENOUS INITIATIVES - LAW SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
Location: Vancouver, BC
Salary: $145,000 to $179,000
Deadline: Open until filled
The Law Society of British Columbia is seeking a permanent, full-time Director, Indigenous Initiatives to serve as a bridge between the Indigenous community, the broader legal community, and the Law Society. Reporting to the CEO/Executive Director, the Director, Indigenous Initiatives will work with key stakeholders to develop initiatives to advance the Law Society and the legal profession’s reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. They will provide support for Indigenous members of the British Columbia (BC) legal profession and advance cultural competency development within the Law Society and the legal profession.
THE ORGANIZATION
The Law Society of British Columbia is the licensing and regulatory body for the legal profession in BC. The organization protects the public by establishing and enforcing standards of professional and ethical conduct for lawyers. It provides information and resources for lawyers and the public regarding standards of conduct, the complaints and discipline process, and hearings.
The Law Society also brings a voice to issues affecting the justice system and the delivery of legal services in BC, including lawyer independence, the rule of law, truth and reconciliation, access to justice, and mental health in the profession.
VISION
To be a leading regulator that promotes a culture of innovation and inclusivity in responding to the challenges and opportunities in the delivery and regulation of legal services.
MISSION
To serve the public interest by regulating the competence and integrity of legal service providers, promoting the rule of law and lawyer independence, and improving access to justice.
VALUES
Integrity - We act honestly and ethically.
Transparent - We are open in our processes and communications, and report publicly on our decisions.
Inclusive - We embrace and promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and cultural respect within our leadership and staff, as well as in the legal profession, the justice sector, and the public.
Objective - We seek data-driven solutions, apply evidence-based decision-making and measure our results.
Innovative - We are adaptive in our approach to regulation with the goal of achieving efficient, fair, and appropriate outcomes.
Responsive - We are aware of the changing needs of the public and the profession and respond to such changes in a timely manner.
GOVERNANCE
The work of the Law Society is overseen by a board of governors called Benchers. The Law Society’s governing board of Benchers are responsible for the Law Society Rules, the Code of Professional Conduct for British Columbia, and governance policies for the administration of the Law Society. Twenty-five Benchers are elected by members of the legal profession, and up to six are members of the public who are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
PRIORITIES
The Law Society, in addition to its core regulatory functions, brings a voice to issues affecting the justice system and the delivery of legal services. Major initiatives in the following areas are currently underway:
Access to justice
Equity and diversity centre
Truth and reconciliation
Rule of law and lawyer independence
Improving mental health for the legal profession
Innovation sandbox
Anti-money laundering
Lawyer development
Learn more about these priorities and strategic plan:
SINGLE LEGAL REGULATOR
In 2024, the BC government passed the Legal Professions Act, legislation that will join lawyers, notaries, and paralegals who choose to be licensed, under one regulatory body. The amalgamation will bring together the Law Society of BC and the Society of Notaries Public BC, and their staff, to create a new regulatory body that serves the public and legal professionals alike. The transition work has begun, and the initiative will be a significant focus for the Law Society for the next several years.
INDIGENOUS FRAMEWORK AND PRINCIPLES
In 2022, The Law Society board approved an Indigenous framework. Developed in keeping with one of the key goals of the Law Society’s Strategic Plan – to take meaningful action toward reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in the justice system – the framework supports the advancement of the principles set out in the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), the First Nations Justice Strategy, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The framework sets out six principles to guide the Law Society’s application of its governing legislation, rules, Code of Professional Conduct, policies, procedures and practices. Read the framework and access the Indigenous Engagement in Regulatory Matters Report online: www.lawsociety.bc.ca/about-us/priorities/truth-and-reconciliation/indigenous-framework-and-principles.
In 2016, the Law Society Benchers unanimously endorsed the establishment of a permanent Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Committee to provide guidance and advice to the Law Society of British Columbia on legal issues affecting Indigenous people in the province, including those highlighted in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Report and Recommendations.
THE LOCATION: VANCOUVER
Located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Vancouver is celebrated globally for its fusion of urban sophistication and natural grandeur, set against the backdrop of mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The histories, languages, cultures, and stewardship of British Columbia’s Indigenous Peoples are deeply interwoven with the region's past, present, and future, offering a rich and vital perspective that increasingly shapes civic life, artistic expression, and an evolving legal landscape dedicated to reconciliation and Indigenous rights.
Vancouver offers a quality of life that consistently ranks among the best in the world. The influence of Indigenous culture is deeply woven into the city’s fabric, evident in dedicated galleries, cultural centres, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives across sectors. Residents enjoy exceptional access to outdoor recreation—skiing and hiking in nearby mountains or sailing and kayaking along the coast—often just minutes from the city centre. Culturally diverse neighbourhoods feature world-class dining and vibrant arts and music scenes. As a dynamic Pacific Rim hub, Vancouver cultivates a forward-thinking, professional community in a setting that combines cosmopolitan amenities with breathtaking natural beauty, creating an ideal environment for both career development and personal well-being.
HYBRID WORK
This position is located at the Law Society of British Columbia office in the Yaletown area of Vancouver, BC. The Law Society supports hybrid work schedules. Work arrangements may be subject to change to accommodate work operations.
THE ROLE
The Director, Indigenous Initiatives will lead the development and implementation of initiatives related to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and serve as a bridge between the Indigenous community, the broader legal community, and the Law Society. Reporting to the CEO/Executive Director, the Director will collaborate across all departments within the Law Society and support the Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Committee, as well as other relevant committees, working groups, and task forces.
Working with relevant stakeholders, the Director, Indigenous Initiatives will develop initiatives to:
Advance the Law Society and the legal profession’s reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
Provide support for Indigenous members of the British Columbia legal profession.
Advance cultural competency development within the Law Society and the legal profession.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Operate under the general oversight and with the support of the CEO/Executive Director.
Work with Senior Leadership Team members and Directors throughout the organization to lead and advance projects, implement initiatives, and ensure responsibilities are met.
Work in collaboration with the Indigenous Navigator.
Develop and maintain relationships with Indigenous people, communities, Elders, and Traditional Knowledge Keepers to build foundational knowledge of Indigenous history and cultures in British Columbia to inform the Law Society’s reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
Lead the development, delivery, coordination, and implementation of Indigenous Initiatives as set out in our Truth and Reconciliation Action Plan and the ongoing work of the Law Society’s Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Committee, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Indigenous Engagement in Regulatory Measures Task Force.
Work collaboratively to enhance understanding within the profession and the Law Society of justice issues affecting Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia.
Coordinate meetings, activities, projects, and strategies of the Truth and Reconciliation Advisory Committee.
Support the Law Society in national and interprovincial initiatives with respect to reconciliation issues.
Plan, research, write, and edit materials related to the Law Society’s Indigenous reconciliation efforts and Indigenous matters as per the Law Society’s Indigenous Framework and Principles Report.
Provide leadership and direction to staff.
Provide insight and assistance to key recruitment processes.
Prepare and manage budget for Indigenous Initiatives.
Lead, develop, and coordinate internal and external relationship-building initiatives.
Provide expert advice, lived experience, perspective, and insight regarding Indigenous matters.
TOTAL COMPENSATION
The Law Society of British Columbia has been recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers since 2022. The organization offers work-life balance, a collegial atmosphere, and an excellent benefits package, including extended health benefits, a dental plan, a generous health care spending account, and more. The position offers a competitive compensation package for eligible candidates, with a salary range of $145,000 to $179,000.
THE CANDIDATE
The successful candidate for this role will have the following:
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
At least 10 years’ experience supporting Indigenous initiatives within an organization, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Lived experience and understanding of access to justice, restorative justice, and/or social justice issues in the context of Indigenous communities.
A law degree or previous experience in a legal or justice position is an asset.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Strong understanding of Indigenous history, laws, and cultures in British Columbia.
Strong knowledge and respect for Indigenous cultural traditions, languages, ceremonies, and protocols involving Elders, Traditional Knowledge Keepers, and Indigenous communities.
Strong and demonstrable connection to the Indigenous legal community and the wider Indigenous community across British Columbia.
Ability to form collaborative relationships and work with diverse groups with patience, composure, and compassion.
Ability to manage a portfolio of projects effectively.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
The Law Society of British Columbia is dedicated to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its work. It welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to contribute to the future of the organization. In accordance with the Law Society’s commitment to reconciliation, the organization seeks to create a culturally safe space and to continue further improving relationships with Indigenous peoples.
This position is for candidates who identify as a member of an Indigenous community (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit). Candidates from this designated group are invited to identify in their cover letter, including details relevant to their community and lived experience, as part of the application process. Candidates who progress to the later stages of the recruitment process will be required to submit documentation to support their Indigenous ancestry and lived experience.
To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to Pathways Executive Search outlining your interest, qualifications, and experience. Email: Applications@PathwaysExecutiveSearch.com
For more details or to further explore this important strategic leadership opportunity, please contact:
Katy Gottfriedson-Jasper, Senior Consultant
Pathways Executive Search
1.250.318.6788
KatyGJ@PathwaysExecutiveSearch.com
Terra MacPhail, Consultant
Pathways Executive Search
1.416.712.7407
TerraM@PathwaysExecutiveSearch.com
Pathways Executive Search is an international executive recruitment firm known for its ability to attract and recruit talent in culturally grounded ways. Guided by Indigenous values and principles of Indigenous inclusion, Pathways walks with those looking to broaden candidate pools, find qualified and experienced candidates, and live out their values and commitment to creating workplace cultures where people can thrive.
