Role: Business Operations Manager

Location: Kitimat, BC
Position Type: Full-time, Permanent
Application Deadline: August 6, 2025
Salary Range: $90,000 – $115,000

About yáqʷa Development Corporation

yáqʷa Development Corporation, wholly owned by Haisla Nation, is dedicated to advancing economic opportunities that support the Nation’s path to self-sufficiency.

We actively pursue and develop opportunities that generate strong financial returns, create meaningful employment, and build skills for Haisla Members.

We ensure that our growth aligns with community priorities and long-term prosperity.

We are a progressive, fast-paced, and forward-thinking organization, centred by the core values of  Haisla Nation.

Position Summary

The Manager of Business Operations is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the performance of yáqʷa Development Corporation’s growing portfolio of businesses, which currently includes Giẕu̓a Market, the Gas Bar, and MK Bay Marina.

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Manager ensures that each business unit operates efficiently, achieves financial and operational targets, and reflects the values and strategic direction of yáqʷa.

This role provides direct leadership to on-site Business Coordinators, promotes a culture of accountability and service excellence, and supports capacity-building and continuous improvement across all business operations. The Manager of Business Operations plays a critical role in aligning day-to-day business activities with long-term organizational goals, community priorities, and the economic vision of Haisla Nation

Key Responsibilities

Business Oversight & Performance Management

• Oversee the daily operations of all yáqʷa-owned enterprises.
• Provide leadership and operational direction to Business Coordinators, ensuring each site delivers efficient, customer-focused, and profitable service.
• Monitor and assess financial performance, including budgets, revenue targets, and cost controls.
• Identify operational risks and opportunities for growth, and work collaboratively with Coordinators to implement effective improvements.
• Ensure all business activities support yáqʷa’s strategic goals of economic self-sufficiency, increased Haisla employment, and long-term community benefit.

Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate the performance of Business Coordinators across all sites.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and professional development of staff, with a focus on building local capacity and retaining talent.
• Promote a positive workplace culture that values accountability, teamwork, respect, and continuous learning.

Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Provide assistance to the Business Development Manager to develop and implement strategies that drive revenue growth and long-term sustainability.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) for each business unit, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.
• Support the standardization of operational procedures, policies, and reporting frameworks across the business portfolio.

 Governance & Alignment

• Ensure all operations reflect the values of Haisla Nation and align with the governance principles and community priorities of yáqʷa Development Corporation.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including occupational health and safety, environmental standards, and industry-specific regulations.
• Uphold ethical business practices and foster culturally respectful operations across all locations.

Skills & Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in business operations, retail or service-sector management, or multi-site coordination.
• Proven leadership skills with experience supervising and developing staff in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated success in improving business performance, managing budgets, and implementing efficient operational systems.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with internal teams, community members, and external partners.
• Well-organized and adaptable, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of Indigenous businesses, economic development, and experience working with First Nations communities is considered a strong asset.
• Familiarity with operations in retail, fuel, marina, or other customer-facing industries is preferred.

Working Conditions

• This is a full-time, on-site position based in Kitimat, BC.  Please note that no relocation will be provided.
• Occasional unsocial hours may be required to support specific business needs.
• Some local travel for meetings and community engagement activities is expected.

Why Work for yáqʷa

• Highly Competitive Salary (commensurate with experience)
• Comprehensive Benefits Plan
• Generous Leave Allowances
• Flex Days
• Short and Long Term Incentives as they become available
• Continuous Professional Development
• Being Part of a Great Team Environment

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume with a cover letter, telling us a little about yourself and why you’d like to work with us, to HR@yaqwadevcorp.com.

Application Deadline is August 6^th at noon.

We thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected for interview will be contacted

About yáqʷa
yáqʷa was established in 2024 as the economic development arm of Haisla Nation. Our mandate is to develop, manage and own the active businesses of the Nation. yáqʷa was established to allow for the separation of business and governance within Haisla Nation. We are open for business and encourage you to visit our website to learn more and reach out to our team.