Assistant Director, Housing and Infrastructure

Job title: Assistant Director, Housing and Infrastructure

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Employment Status: Full-Time Permanent Position

Closing Date: Open until filled

Internal/External Competition

About the AFN

The AFN is an advocacy organization that takes direction and fulfills mandates as directed by First Nations in-Assembly through resolutions. As a national advocacy organization for First Nations, the AFN seeks to advance First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights through the development of policy, public education, and where applicable, the co-development of legislation to build First Nations capacity.

The AFN was created out of a desire among First Nations leadership for a strong and effective collective advocacy organization. From this, values such as respect for human rights, diversity, justice, and the sovereignty of each rights-holding First Nation guide the work of the organization.

Position Overview 

The Assistant Director, Housing and Infrastructure, will play a critical role in leading the AFN’s Housing and Infrastructure policy and project management operations by leading teams of analysts to develop research, analysis, and reporting for senior management and Chiefs committees. The successful candidate will support the director by overseeing and implementing internal quality controls, developing systems for ensuring compliance with AFN policies and procedures, and developing high quality strategic advice and support for senior leadership. The role is central to strengthening internal processes to promote efficiency, effectiveness, and organizational sustainability. Through strong leadership and collaboration, the Assistant Director, Housing and Infrastructure helps ensure that AFN’s resources are applied strategically in alignment with organizational priorities.

Reporting to the Director, Housing and Infrastructure, the Assistant Director, Housing and Infrastructure will have the following responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage policy teams to achieve AFN’s mandated goals and objectives. Manage, mentor, and develop policy staff, fostering a high‑performance and growth‑oriented team culture.
• Lead the implementation of work plans, ensuring the sector’s compliance with AFN’s policies and procedures, budgets, and third-party contracts and agreements affecting the operation of the Sector.
• Support the preparation and presentation of briefing material, reports, and analyses to the Senior Director, Economic Development & Infrastructure, Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), senior management team, and the National Chief’s Office.
• Support the preparation and administration of proposals, budgets, contracts, strategic plans, work plans, and reports to funders, ensuring alignment with AFN strategic priorities and funding agreements.
• Maintain compliance with the AFN’s contracting and procurement policies and procedures, including by tracking timelines and ensuring high quality products, including scopes of work, terms of reference, and proposal evaluations.
• Manage the implementation of contracts, including timelines, milestones, budgets, and the quality and status of deliverables. Develop and implement project monitoring tools to support ongoing tracking and risk management for sector projects.
• Provide guidance and support to the Director on policy analysis, procurement, contracting, and project management, ensuring alignment with budgets and strengthening operational performance.
• Continuously review, refine, and implement operational best practices in policy analysis, project development, and project implementation.
• Assist the director in strengthening research, analysis, and strategic communication to ensure clear, accurate, and timely information is provided to the CEO, Management Committee, Chiefs’ Committees, and other key stakeholders.
• Build effective relationships with directors, senior leadership, government partners, and external stakeholders.
• Support policy requirements for proposals, funding agreements, contracts, and organizational initiatives.
• Anticipate and respond to operational issues, support and/or maintain external relationships, and ensure timely communication across AFN.

Working Conditions 

• Primarily office-based, with frequent travel required for meetings, community engagements, and events. 
• Availability to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary to meet organizational needs. 
• Ability to handle high-pressure situations and adapt to changing circumstances. 

Physical and Mental Demands 

• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use. 
• Capacity to manage complex and sensitive issues with professionalism, discretion, and cultural sensitivity. 
• Emotional resilience and the ability to navigate politically sensitive and challenging environments in a professional and effective manner.

Who can apply 

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in humanities, social sciences, or related field. Holding a Master’s or Ph.D.  in humanities, social sciences, or related field is an asset.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in policy analysis, Indigenous governance, applied research, or project management, preferably within a government, non‑profit or Indigenous‑focused environment.
• Strong writing and project management skills are required.
• Experience working with Indigenous communities and an understanding of their cultural, political, and policy contexts is an asset.
• Experience in managing, mentoring, and developing staff from diverse backgrounds, fostering a supportive and high‑performance work environment.
• Ability to build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership in government, non-profit, business, and philanthropic sectors.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across teams and departments to support organizational goals and briefings to senior management.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with sound judgment in interpreting government policy and communications and supporting strategic decision‑making.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly and accessible.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and accountability in managing sensitive information.

Diversity Statement 

Qualified persons of First Nations Ancestry will be given preference in accordance with s.16(1) of the Canadian Human Rights Act. 

Why Work with AFN?

At the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), we value our employees and are committed to fostering a supportive, engaging, and rewarding workplace. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy: 

• Employer-Paid Health Benefit Premiums – Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family, with premiums fully paid by AFN. 
• Generous Pension Matching – A competitive pension plan with significant employer contributions to help you build your future. 
• Ample Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days – Generous vacation entitlements, paid sick leave, and personal days, plus additional non-legislative time off throughout the year. 
• Professional Development Support – Coverage for courses, certifications, and training to help you grow your skills and advance your career. 
• Wellness Funds – Annual funds you can use towards fitness, mental health supports, or other wellness-related expenses. 
• Modern, Central Location – Our bright, collaborative office is located in the Sun Life Building in downtown Ottawa, with Parliament LRT Station right in the building for an easy commute. 
• Convenient Amenities – Steps away from cafes, restaurants, and shops. 
• Meaningful Work – Be part of a national organization advocating for First Nations, making a positive difference for communities across Canada. 
• Collaborative & Inclusive Culture – Work alongside passionate, dedicated colleagues in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated to an inclusive selection process and work environment. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the Human Resources representative when you are invited to meet regarding this employment opportunity.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.