Notice of Opportunity: Chairperson (NIEDB)

Closing date: Monday May 18^th, 2026

The National Indigenous Economic Development Board (NIEDB) is seeking applications to fill the position of Chairperson.

Established in 1990, the NIEDB is the only national, non-political organization of its kind in Canada mandated to provide strategic policy advice and guidance to the whole of the federal government on all matters pertaining to indigenous economic development. The Board serves as a vital link between Indigenous and non‑Indigenous business and community leaders, policymakers, legislators, and federal departments. Comprised of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis business and community leaders from across Canada, the NIEDB provides advice on Indigenous economic development priorities and supports governments in responding to the diverse needs and circumstances of Indigenous Peoples.

The Role

The Chairperson provides leadership to the Board and plays a key role in advancing Indigenous economic inclusion in Canada. The Chair runs Board meetings and guides Board deliberations, and represents the NIEDB in engagements with government, Indigenous communities and organizations, policy groups, and, on occasion, industry partners

The NIEDB consists of up to 13 members appointed by the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). The Chair is appointed to a term of up to four years. The Executive consists of the Chairperson, the Vice‑Chairperson and the Member-at-Large. Board members are First Nation, Métis and Inuit and may reside anywhere in Canada.

The Board generally holds:

• Three in‑person meetings per year, hosted in various regions across Canada to ensure diverse regional perspectives; and
• Approximately four virtual meetings, as required.

The Chair is expected to dedicate approximately 30 days per year for meetings (including preparation and travel), plus an additional five days for committee work and other Board‑related responsibilities. All members must be willing to travel and attend Board meetings in person.

Who Can Apply

Candidates for Chairperson must be Indigenous leaders with significant experience in business and economic development. They must demonstrate strong governance expertise, ideally in a chair or senior leadership role within a national or regional organization, proof of Indigeneity and be widely recognized for their leadership, integrity, and trustworthiness.  Understanding the policy-making process and the federal government structure are assets for the position.

Essential Qualifications

Education

• A university degree, or an acceptable combination of education, training, and relevant experience.

Experience

• Significant and demonstrated governance experience as an Indigenous community and/or business leader.
• Proven experience in a chair or senior leadership role within a national or regional organization.
• Recognition for leadership achievements and the ability to make sound, results‑oriented decisions.
• Experience representing the interests of a specific constituency or the public interest within financial, business, or economic development organizations.
• Strong understanding of business, finance, and economic principles, particularly from an Indigenous perspective.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities, including accountability, integrity, sound judgment, effective communication, and confidence.
• Ability to balance sectoral expertise with urban, rural, northern, and Indigenous community perspectives.
• Recognized by peers and communities of interest for discretion, integrity, and trustworthiness.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of the mandate and role of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board.
• Expertise in Indigenous economic development and related priorities, such as:
  • Indigenous entrepreneurship and SME development
  • Innovation and partnership development
  • Youth employment
  • Industry sector development
  • Access to financing and information
• In‑depth understanding of Indigenous cultures, priorities, and visions for economic inclusion.
• Understanding of public policy issues affecting Indigenous economic development.

Asset Qualifications

• Strong ability to communicate with identified constituencies and convey their perspectives to external organizations.
• Demonstrated capacity to provide strategic guidance in support of Indigenous prosperity, economic well‑being, and inclusion in Canada’s economy.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to serve as a spokesperson for the Board at public events.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with public and private sector partners and Indigenous stakeholders.
• Experience in negotiation, reconciliation, and relationship‑building.
• Experience in strategic planning and organizational leadership.
• Proficiency in both official languages is an asset.

Personal Skills

• High ethical standards and integrity
• Independent thinker with sound judgement
• Respect, fairness and impartiality
• Tact and discretion
• Interpersonal skills
• Team oriented and strong communication skills

Conditions of Employment

• Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident within the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
• Must be of Canadian Indigenous heritage (First Nation, Métis, or Inuit) which will be verified through an established Board process.
• Must comply with the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Act as well as the ethical and political activity guidelines for part-time public office holders.
• Shall not accept or hold any office or employment inconsistent with their duties and functions.
• Must be prepared to travel and work long hours when required.

Remuneration: Currently under review by the Minister

Additional Information

The Government is committed to ensuring appointments are representative of Canada’s regions and official languages, as well as employment equity and diversity with respect to women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and visible minorities. The selected candidate must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders. The Guidelines are available under Open and Accountable Government, Annex A.

The selected candidate will be subject to the Conflict of Interest Act. For more information, please visit the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner.

Interested candidates should forward their curriculum vitae and/or letter of application to the attention of: