Superintendent of Housing

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting directly to the Manager of Property Management and Housing, the Superintendent of Housing is responsible for the effective and efficient operation of Westbank First Nation housing programs and services pursuant to the Westbank First Nation Residential Premises Law and Housing Policies. The Superintendent of Housing is responsible for overseeing and implementing the WFN Housing Strategy through the effective management of staff, financial planning, project management and Community engagement, communication and education. This position will work closely with the Manager of Property Management, WFN Government, Department Managers and staff as well as external stakeholders and funders for the continuous growth and improvement of WFN housing programs and services for the health and safety of WFN members and community.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Property Management, Urban Planning, Project Management, or related field is required
• First Nations Housing Manager Certificate is considered an asset
• Rental Property Management License or similar licensing preferred
• First Nation Housing Professional Designation (willingness to get)
• Minimum of 4 years of recent related experience in business administration
• Minimum of 4 years of recent related experience in the housing industry
• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory experience
• Experience in managing confidential situations and materials
• Previous experience working in a local government or First Nation organization is considered an asset
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search, with results acceptable to WFN
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License and Acceptable Driver's Abstract
• Access to a safe/reliable vehicle with valid insurance
• Availability to occasionally work evenings, weekends, or on-call hours
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Manages WFN's owned and operated housing portfolio (over 100 mixed units on and off WFN land), including maintenance of a centralized waiting list, rent calculations and collection,
• Manages annual Department and Project budget preparation and analysis
• Prepares correspondence, standard reports and analysis on property operations
• Prepares Reports for Director of Property Management, Manager of Property Management, Council, Community, external stakeholders
• Prepares analysis of property operations
• May prepare tenancy agreements for new tenants, process rent and tenancy changes or terminations and initiate necessary follow ups for these actions
• May collect rents, resolve rental non-payment issues, initiate procedures to recover delinquent rents
• Support the Housing Coordinator as needed (Liaises with tenants) regarding tenant issues and concerns
• Collaborates with internal departments in providing social supports for tenants and the community
• Develops housing policy and procedures and service standards, in consultation with housing stakeholders and senior management
• Conducts operational reviews to ensure compliance with legislative and policy requirements. Develops and implements remedial action plans for operational difficulties or items found in non-compliance with legislation
• Conducts regular environmental scans to assess community need, effectiveness of service delivery on the ground, emerging issues, and partnership opportunities
• Liaises with community stakeholders to support tenants and households in the community in urgent housing need
• Cooperates inter-departmentally with respect to the various components of housing provision and service management
• Oversees day-to-day project designs, development and project construction as required
• Keeps Manager of Property Management and Housing informed of project progress, meeting on as need basis to sign off pertinent documentation
• Maintains current knowledge and understanding of housing policies from ISC, CMHC, Health Canada, and other industry-related agencies
• Prepares and presents reports to Council and Committees on matters pertaining to housing and related issues
• Attends Council, Committee and membership meetings as required
• Actively contributes to the organization's Strategic Plan by participating in initiatives and committees to support the overall plan
• Provides direction and supervision to housing staff as necessary
• All persons employed by WFN may be required to assist in providing emergency services. Duties assigned during an emergency may differ from regular duties
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards, and procedures

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Well organized with strong written and verbal communication skills
• Customer service orientated building positive and professional relationships with tenants, clients, and staff
• Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to develop constructive working relationships with tenants and other agencies, contractors, and service providers
• Good judgment when problem-solving, direct experience in managing difficult situations with tenants and clients
• Ability to maintain a non-judgment, non-reactionary, and non-defensive communication style during challenging discussions
• Ability to use discretion, tact, and diplomacy when addressing sensitive issues
• Experience establishing and managing staff work plans, with the ability to organize, and adapt to changing workload priorities.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Financial knowledge with experience developing and managing multiple, complex budgets, rent collection accounts, and develop project estimates and manage project budgets, as well as ability to report financial state to WFN Governance and Community as required
• Experience with a variety of computer software programs including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
• Knowledge of WFN Community Services programs, services and issues

The median annual salary for this position is $88,037

To learn more about Westbank First Nation please visit our website at https://www.wfn.ca.

All applications must be submitted through our Employment Opportunities page. Ensure you attach your cover letter and resume. Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.

This opportunity will close at midnight on Sunday, May 4th, 2025

While we recognize the value of diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, preference will be provided to qualified WFN Members & Indigenous applicants.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.