Senior Policy Analyst, Chief Executive Officer Office INTERNAL POSTING at Assembly of First Nations

Senior Policy Analyst – Chief Executive Officer’s Office - AFN Employees ONLY.

Full-time Permanent
Location: Ottawa is preferred.

Closing Date: November 28, 2025

Internal Competition 

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. 

Position Overview:
The Assembly of First Nations is seeking a highly skilled, motivated, and experienced individual who will conduct research and analysis, and provide recommendations for policy development, interpretation, and application in support of First Nations’ rights and governance priorities.  Reporting to the Lead Senior Director of Policy, the Senior Policy Analyst will have the following key duties and responsibilities:  

• Gathers, researches, and analyzes statistical information, reviews and assesses existing research, and writes reports on findings and conclusions with high complexity requiring expertise knowledge and excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Makes recommendations in the development of policies by collecting and analyzing reports, briefing notes, statistical data and records of discussions.
• Makes recommendations related to First Nations policies and program development, processes and procedures within a strategic, broad scope and impact.
• Assists with the preparation of AFN resolutions.
• Provides support to the Director in the preparation of materials for the National Chief’s Office, which may include PowerPoint presentations, speaking notes, briefing notes, memos, correspondences, and other documents that may be required from time to time.
• Manages documentation and workflows through Laserfiche, this includes creating, responding to, and routing correspondence, letters, briefing notes, speaking notes and other documents used in the normal work environment.
• Assist with technical working group, arranging and scheduling meetings, maintaining a record of discussion, gathering and distribution information to working group meetings on a regular basis, and ensuring that adequate and timely follow-up is carried out by its membership.
• Provides technical presentations when requested to do so, which may include light moderation and facilitation.
• Participates and contributes to the development and implementation of policy and research work plans within the Sector specifically and the Branch generally.
• Follows up with other AFN policy staff for policy coordination, collaboration, and development with the aim of aligning work plans and merging effort and expertise.
• And other duties assigned by the Director. 

Who Can Apply: 

• A post-secondary degree related to Indigenous Studies, Political science, or public administration with 5+ years relevant experience preferably working with First Nations or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• The ability to analyze complex information and data, and communicate this concisely to a variety of audiences (e.g., officials, portfolio-holders, Chiefs, etc.)  
• Advanced written and verbal skills, including the ability to use appropriate terminology.  
• Familiarity with the manipulation and analysis of data using databases such as Excel.  
• Demonstrated knowledge and ability to apply effective research techniques, with respect to confidentiality and ethics.  
• Ability to develop effective working relationships with team members, governing bodies, and partners both inside and outside of the AFN.   
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills, professionalism, teamwork, and judgement.  
• Sound planning and organization skills with the ability to multi-task while working under pressure and with competing deadlines.  
• English is the working language although the ability to communicate effectively in French or an Indigenous language is an asset. 

Working Conditions 

• Primarily office-based with regular travel required for meetings, community engagement, and events.
• Flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate community needs and organizational priorities. 

Physical and Mental Demands 

• Extended periods of computer use and desk work.
• High levels of concentration and emotional resilience are required when addressing complex justice and community safety concerns.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 

Diversity Statement 

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

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.

Accommodation Statement

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is dedicated 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.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates short-listed for an interview will be contacted.

AFN may cancel, postpone, or revise employment opportunities at any time.

Thank you for your interest in employment with the AFN! We truly appreciate your application and will carefully review your resume. As we receive a high number of applications, we want to inform you that we can only contact shortlisted candidates.