Genral Counsel

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is committed 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.

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

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.

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.

Position Overview
The AFN is seeking an experienced and strategic General Counsel to serve as the senior legal advisor to the organization and a key member of the executive leadership team. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the General Counsel leads the Legal Sector and is responsible for overseeing all legal services and providing expert legal advice to the National Chief, Executive Committee, and AFN Secretariat. The General Counsel plays a critical role in aligning legal work with AFN’s political mandates and priorities. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading legal strategy, managing complex litigation and legal risk, supporting organizational governance, and ensuring AFN’s legal positions reflect and protect the rights, interests, and priorities of First Nations across Canada.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advisor & Executive Counsel

• Serve as the principal legal advisor to the CEO, National Chief, and Executive Committee.
• Advise on legal issues related to Indigenous rights, constitutional law, administrative law, governance, employment, and contracts.
• Interpret and provide legal advice on Chiefs-in-Assembly Resolutions, policies, and governance frameworks.
• Assess and manage legal risks and support strategic decision-making across the organization.

Legal Sector Leadership

• Lead and mentor a high-performing Legal team by managing staff, supporting development, and overseeing strategic planning, budgeting, and reporting.
• Convene and lead Legal Sector meetings and contribute to all-staff and director-level strategic meetings.
• Ensure legal operations align with AFN's political and organizational objectives.
• Provide legal advice and assistance during Annual General Assemblies and Special Chiefs Assemblies.

Litigation Oversight

• Represent the AFN in complex litigation and manage external counsel in litigation matters.
• Lead development of litigation strategies and oversee pleadings, affidavits, factums, and submissions.
• Draft and supervise preparation of court materials and responses to national legal issues.

Internal Collaboration and Organizational Support

• Review and approve legal agreements, contracts, MOUs, and funding agreements.
• Collaborate with AFN Sectors including HR on employment law matters, and advise Finance, Communications, and Policy sectors on legal implications in their work.
• Support internal policy compliance and corporate governance activities.

External Engagement and Advocacy

• Represent AFN in legal, governmental, and advocacy forums, including parliamentary committees, inquiries, and policy panels.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with First Nations leadership and community legal representatives.
• Draft and review speaking notes, briefing notes, memos, and reports for the National Chief, Executive, and Assembly meetings.
• Contribute to public understanding of First Nations legal issues and AFN’s work through strategic communications.

Governance and Legislative Affairs

• Monitor, analyze, and interpret relevant legislation and jurisprudence affecting First Nations and AFN’s mandate.
• Provide leadership on legal policy development, treaty implementation, and nation-to-nation governance frameworks.
• Deliver training and build legal literacy within AFN and among First Nations partners.

Communications and Records Management

• Oversee the preparation and filing of legal records and sector documentation in AFN’s records management system (e.g., Laserfiche).
• Support knowledge transfer across the Legal Sector and provide legal literacy resources to staff.
• Ensure legal updates are communicated in both official languages and on schedule.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• LL.B. or J.D. from a recognized Canadian law school.
• Member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario (LSO) or eligible for transfer.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive legal experience.
• Demonstrated litigation experience, especially in Indigenous, constitutional, or administrative law.
• Experience working with or advising First Nations governments, organizations, or communities.
• Proven experience managing legal teams and developing organizational legal strategy.