Deputy Chief Commissioner, First Nations Tax Commission

The First Nations Tax Commission administers and regulates the taxation regime under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, including approving local revenue laws, developing sample laws, resolving disputes, developing and delivering accredited training, reconciling First Nations government and taxpayer interests, promoting understanding of real property tax systems of First Nations, and assisting First Nations in the exercise of their jurisdiction over real property taxation. In addition, pursuant to a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the First Nations Tax Commission carries out advisory functions in support of the Minister’s powers under section 83 of the Indian Act.

The Deputy Chief Commissioner of the First Nations Tax Commission is responsible for the overall direction of the Commission, ensuring that it fulfils its legal and regulatory mandate under the Act and provides executive leadership, strategic operational and policy directions for the Commission on behalf of the Chief Commissioner during his or her absence. To this end, among other duties, the Deputy Chief Commissioner is called upon to participate as a member of an independent administrative tribunal as well as act as a representative of the Commission in identifying real property tax issues and providing advice to facilitate the development and approval of local revenue laws, the issuance of certificates and the resolution of disputes and complaints. Other duties include, but are not limited to: promoting and facilitating the understanding and acceptance of the Commission’s mandate, mission, process and decisions; supporting the development of a framework of regulations and standards for First Nations tax regimes; establishing and maintaining a network of contacts with First Nations and taxpayers across Canada; contribute expertise to the development of policies and regulations; and work with other First Nations fiscal institutions to develop common approaches to sound fiscal infrastructure in support of First Nations economic development.

Diversity and Official Languages

The Government of Canada will consider bilingual proficiency and diversity in assessing applicants. You are therefore encouraged to include in your online profile your ability to speak and understand your second official language. Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of a visible minority group.

Education and Experience

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study, or an acceptable combination of education, job-related training and/or experience;
  


• Experience as a senior board member or as a senior executive in a public or private sector organization with multiple stakeholders;
  


• Decision-making experience with respect to complex and sensitive issues;
  


• Track record of delivering on financial, operational and strategic objectives;
  


• Experience with tax regimes, including tax assessment or rate-setting;
  


• Experience with conflict prevention and resolution strategies and approaches;
  


• Experience with community relations and stakeholder engagement;
  


• Demonstrated financial and human resources acumen (budgets, risk management, internal control, human resources management, fiscal management, financing, lending or accounting); and
  


• Experience in one or more of the following would be considered an asset: making presentations to First Nations, Members of Parliament or Senators; dealing with different levels of government; legislative or regulatory proposals; training programs; First Nations administration, economic development or negotiations with local governments.
  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of key public policy issues affecting First Nations;
  


• Knowledge of the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, including the role and mandate of the First Nations Tax Commission;
  


• Knowledge of First Nations taxation systems including the interests and concern of residential, commercial or utility taxpayers or the interests and concerns of First Nations with respect to property tax regimes;
  


• Knowledge of First Nations governments, cultures, societies and economies;
  


• Ability to work in close collaboration with elected officials, private and public sector representatives, and the public in partnership with Indigenous stakeholders; and
  


• Superior communication skills, both written and oral.
  

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• Conceptual and innovative thinking
  


• Leadership
  


• Flexibility
  


• Impact and influence
  


• Sound judgment
  


• High ethical standards and integrity
  


• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills
  


• Collaborative
  

Eligibility Factors and Conditions of Employment

• Appointees must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders throughout their appointment as a term and condition of employment. The guidelines are available on the Governor in Council Appointments website under the Forms and reference material.


• All appointees are subject to the Conflicts of Interest Act. Public office holders appointed on a full-time basis must also submit to the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics within 60 days of appointment, a confidential report in which they disclose all of their assets, liabilities and outside activities. For more information, please visit the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner's website.

• Appointees must uphold the highest standards of probity and are expected to demonstrate behaviours in the workplace that afford respect, equality and dignity, to everyone they interact with at work at all times. The Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector outlines the values and expected behaviours for public servants, including valuing diversity and creating workplaces free from harassment and discrimination. Governor in Council appointees are expected to uphold and respect these values and principles in a positive and active manner.
  


• If you are appointed, you must be able to dedicate up to 125 days annually for meetings, preparation and travel.
  


• If you are appointed, you must be able to travel frequently to remote First Nations, Commissions’ committees, working groups or panel meetings.
  


• If you are appointed, you must be available and willing to travel within Canada on a regular basis and for extended periods.
  

A link to this notice will be placed in the Canada Gazette to assist the Governor in Council in identifying qualified candidates for this positions. It is not, however, intended to be the sole means of recruitment. A roster of qualified candidates may be established and may be used for similar opportunities.

How to Apply

Review of applications will begin on January 25, 2019. Candidates must apply online via the Governor in Council Appointments website. Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their applications by this date. After this date, your application will be retained and may be considered up until an appointment to the position is made. Your cover letter should be addressed to the Deputy Director of Selection Processes, Senior Personnel Secretariat, Privy Council Office, and should be sent only through the online application.

Instructions on how to apply for an appointment opportunity can be found on the Governor in Council Appointments website.