Ombudsman

Location: Flexible within the province of Alberta

Closing Date: Until Suitable Candidate Found

Position Status: Appointed Term Position

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizens’ Council is recruiting for the role of Ombudsman. Appointed by the Citizens’ Council, the Ombudsman is an arms-length officer of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government who oversees the independent Office of the Ombudsman of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in accordance with theOmbudsman Act, theCode of Ethics Act,theOtipemisiwak Métis Government Constitutionand other relevantOtipemisiwak Métis Government laws. The Ombudsman supports fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable governance for the Citizens of the Métis Nation within Alberta by receiving and investigating complaints, mediating disputes, and providing recommendations to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and its Institutions regarding possible resolutions of disputes.

The Ombudsman will serve the balance of the current term, ending following the Fall 2027 General Election, as per Section 6 of the Ombudsman Act. The successful nominee may be considered for re-appointment.

As per Section 22 of the Ombudsman Act, the jurisdiction of the Ombudsman is the investigation of any actions, inactions, or decisions by:

the Otipemisiwak Métis Government or an Institution with respect to a matter of administration; or
elected leadership, officers, or employees of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government or an Institution in the exercise of any power or duty conferred on such persons by Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We believe that our strength lies in our rich cultural heritage and the diverse experiences of our Citizens’ and community members. We are committed to providing equal opportunities and ensuring barriers are reduced in the recruitment process for our appointments. We welcome applications from all individuals, to ensure our appointments represent the diversity of the Citizens of the Métis Nation within Alberta we serve, including but not limited to age, gender, and rural and urban backgrounds.

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is dedicated to ensuring a transparent, accountable, and inclusive nomination and appointment process. We reduce bias through blind recruitment techniques, employ a standardized application and evaluation process, and value the lived experiences and cultural knowledge of all candidates. These practices reﬂect our commitment to fairness and equity for every applicant.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the operation of the Office of the Ombudsman which employs or retains persons as considered necessary for the Ombudsman to perform their duties effectively under Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law, including but not limited to independent legal counsel to assist the Ombudsman.
Administer and manage the Office of the Ombudsman and the general business of the Office.
Direct staff and provide guidance and supervision respecting the conduct of business within the Office of the Ombudsman.
Investigate complaints, mediate disputes, and dismiss complaints in accordance with Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law.
Make recommendations to the Otipemisiwak Métis Government or any Institution regarding possible resolutions of complaints.
Maintain records of annual disclosure statements filed by public officials and provide Citizens access to those disclosure statements in accordance with the Code of Ethics Act.
Maintain confidentiality in respect of all matters in the exercise of duties under Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law.
Provide the Citizens’ Council with a report on activities and operations during each preceding fiscal year, as outlined in the Act.
Enforce fairness, impartiality, and compliance with Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law in performance of all duties.
Review and amend any forms or documents required under Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law.
Participate in the allocation of the budget for the Office of the Ombudsman.
Perform all duties assigned to them under an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Law or regulation.

Skills & Competencies

Familiarity withOtipemisiwak Métis Government Law.
Strong understanding of fair and impartial investigative processes.
Ability to ensure transparency and accountability through clear communication and accessible reporting.
Excellent interpersonal skills with the proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with multiple stakeholder groups.
Strong leadership skills, with experience recruiting, training, supervising, and supporting staff.
Experience with resource allocation and budgeting for operational activities.
Demonstrated impartiality and fairness in decision-making and oversight of processes.
Strong sense of ethics and the ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality in all interactions.
High ethical standards, integrity, and the ability to inspire public trust and confidence in investigative processes.
Strong time management and organizational skills.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to listen, interpret and convey information to various audiences.
Strong computer skills with the ability to adapt to new technology and software.
Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
Ability to make sound decisions under pressure, including in emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
Knowledge of Métis history, culture, and issues affecting Métis people. An in-depth understanding of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and Métis culture is an asset.

Qualifications

Applicants for the Ombudsman position must meet the following qualiﬁcations as per Section 5 of theOmbudsman Act:

Be a Citizen of the Métis Nation within Alberta;
Understand Métis cultural context and values;
Demonstrate integrity and professionalism;
Have experience with dispute resolution;
Not have been convicted of a criminal offence for which they have not received a pardon or record suspension that has not been revoked or ceased to have effect;
Not have caused a child to be in need of intervention within the meaning of the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act, RSA 2000, c C-12; and
Not hold an elected position with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.

Other Requirements

Ability to work a flexible schedule as required to fulfill responsibilities in accordance with theOmbudsman Act.

Ability to travel throughout Alberta, as required.
Reliable transportation and valid Class 5 driver’s license.
A criminal record check and intervention record check must be completed for the successful applicant.

What We Offer

The opportunity to become an Officer of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and be a part of the largest Indigenous Government in Canada.
Meaningful work in a supportive work environment.
Training and professional development opportunities.
A comprehensive benefit package and employer contributions to Pension Plan.

Apply online at http://albertametis.com/careers/

Please include your resume and a cover letter clearly detailing your experience as it relates to the above-mentioned skills and competencies and stating your interest in this role. Please include your Métis Citizen ID Number in your cover letter.

If you face barriers to applying, please reach out to Tamara Martin (tmartin@metis.org) to discuss accommodations or other assistance.

The Otipemisiwak Métis Government thanks all applicants for their interest. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

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