Description
About Westbank First Nation
Westbank First Nation (WFN) is a self‑governing First Nation located in south‑central British Columbia and is one of eight Syilx Okanagan Nation communities. The syilx people have inhabited the region for thousands of years, with traditional territories extending from the BC interior to north‑central Washington State. WFN is comprised of five reserves totaling more than 5,300 acres, including Tsinstikeptum 9 and 10 on the shores of Okanagan Lake near Kelowna, one of BC’s fastest growing regions.
WFN is recognized across Canada for having one of the most comprehensive sets of community laws governing reserve development, land regulation, and administration. Through its self‑government framework, enacted in 2005, WFN operates a diverse range of essential community services including daycare and pre‑school, an elementary school, a multi‑denominational church, and numerous recreational and cultural amenities. The Nation is home to approximately 900 Members and more than 11,000 non‑member residents, with over 550 businesses operating on reserve.
WFN’s governance model is built on sqilxʷ cawt “the way of the people” and is rooted in consensus, collective leadership, and community stewardship. Their values are represented by the Four Food Chiefs:
- Chief Bitterroot (stewardship and protection)
- Chief Bear (tradition, generosity, leadership)
- Chief Salmon (initiative, resilience, sustainability)
- Chief Saskatoon Berry Bush (innovation, strength, community)
Together, these principles embody WFN’s long-term commitment to responsible governance, community‑centered decision making, and cultural preservation.
The Opportunity – General Legal Counsel
On behalf of Westbank First Nation, Alexander Whitehead Executive Search is pleased to invite expressions of interest for the position of General Legal Counsel. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, and working closely with Chief and Council, the General Legal Counsel will lead the Nation’s Legal Department and steward WFN’s legal, legislative, and governance frameworks.
This is a highly impactful role within one of Canada’s most respected self‑governing First Nations. The General Legal Counsel will oversee all internal legal functions, including legislative development, legal risk management, compliance, governance processes, and the provision of timely and strategic legal advice to elected leadership and senior administrators.
The successful candidate brings at least eight years of progressive legal experience grounded in Indigenous governance, administrative law, public‑sector regulation, corporate legal practice, or similarly complex environments. Deep knowledge of Indigenous law, First Nation self‑governance, legislative drafting, and governance processes is required. Cultural awareness, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to operate with diplomacy, confidentiality, and integrity are essential.
Professional Experience and Qualifications
- Minimum eight years of progressive legal experience, ideally within Indigenous governance, local government, public‑sector law, or complex regulatory environments.
- Strong leadership experience supporting legal teams, governance processes, and senior decision‑makers.
- Extensive knowledge of legislative drafting, administrative law, statutory interpretation, contract law, employment law, and intergovernmental negotiations.
- Demonstrated ability to develop legal workflows, governance processes, and policy frameworks that support compliance and legislative advancement.
- Experience advising senior leadership, councils or boards on legal risk, governance, and organizational accountability.
- Culturally respectful approach with an understanding of Indigenous values, governance structures, and community‑based decision‑making.
- Strong research, analytical, policy development, and legal writing skills.
- Strong business and financial acumen to support long-term planning and risk evaluation.
Education and Professional Designations
Candidates must be a member of, or eligible for admission to, the Law Society of British Columbia and hold a LL.B. or J.D. from a recognized law school. Additional training in intercultural work or trauma‑informed practice is considered an asset.
Community
Westbank, British Columbia
Located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Westbank offers a unique blend of cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, and economic opportunity. With a rapidly growing population, thriving business environment, and immediate access to world‑class recreation, Westbank and the broader Kelowna region provide an exceptional quality of life. The Okanagan is celebrated for its warm climate, vineyards, outdoor recreation, and rich cultural heritage.
Join the Westbank First Nation Team!
Interested and qualified individuals are encouraged to submit their resume in confidence to Georgia Adams, Research Associate at Alexander Whitehead Executive Search via email: georgia@alexanderwhitehead.com
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The initial review of applications will begin immediately.
We thank all applicants for their interest however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.
