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The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is issuing a call for expressions of interest for the role of Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt.

The MNO harvest, grounded in the exercise of Métis rights, provides food and medicine for Métis families and communities; acts as a catalyst for the transfer of traditional knowledge to future generations; and maintains our people’s connection to the land, water, and ecosystems of Metis harvesting territories. The Captains of the Hunt (COTH) and COTH Liaisons play an integral role in the management of a sustainable MNO harvest and provide oversight of MNO’s harvest system, including the MNO Harvest Policy.

Expressions of interest must include the mandatory supporting information below:

  • Proof of MNO citizenship;
  • A resume detailing: relevant work and/or volunteer experience; leadership experience; training; education; and traditional way of life knowledge and experience;
  • A cover letter (600 words maximum) that outlines the applicant’s ability to fulfill the role of Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt.

Applicants must meet the requirements of section 2.1(d) of the MNO Harvesting Policy and be an active harvester. More detailed information on the role of Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt can be found below. The role of Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt is also described in the MNO Harvest Policy.

Deadline for expressions of interest: August 12, 2024

Submit to:
Chief Captain of the Hunt
Margaret Froh
harvesting@metisnation.org

Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt

The Captains of the Hunt (COTH) and COTH Liaisons play an integral role in the management of Métis harvesting rights. A COTH is assigned to each of the Metis Harvesting Territories within Ontario, and is mandated by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) to have full authority over the Métis harvest in their respective region.

The COTHs act as a direct line of communication between Harvesters, the MNO and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). They help manage the annual harvest in conjunction with the province of Ontario, support the implementation of the MNO Harvesting Policy, and determine the appropriate management of the harvest in their respective regions. The COTH also act as the liaison between harvesters and the MNO in situations where charges have been filed.

The President of MNO may appoint a Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt who shall be responsible to implement the MNO Harvest Policy throughout the province. The President may, at their discretion delegate some or all of the management of the Métis harvest to the Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt.

The duties of the Deputy Chief COTH include:
  • Supporting COTH in the implementation of their duties;
  • Supporting the appointment process, transition, and onboarding of new COTH;
  • Developing, maintaining and supporting the implementation of processes associated with the management of the Métis harvest;
  • Convening and chairing of meetings of the COTH;
  • Assisting Harvesters in the completion of applications for Harvester’s Certificates;
  • Reviewing and signing Harvester applications prior to the MNO’s Registry Branch processing them and final approval;
  • Verifying that Harvesters can properly and safely employ firearms;
  • Answering inquiries from Métis citizens regarding harvesting rights and criteria surrounding harvesting;
  • Investigating complaints and charges and acting as a liaison between the MNO and Harvesters;
  • Acting as a point of contact for MNRF Field Officers;
  • Preparing incident reports;
  • Ensuring Harvesters are in compliance with the MNO Harvesting Policy;
  • Participating in relevant government-to-government relationship tables as required, particularly in the area of Métis way of life and harvesting;
  • Acting as a source of information on the Métis Way of Life and Traditional Knowledge;
  • Liaising and establishing linkages with provincial organizations and government program representatives as directed.

The Deputy Chief Captain of the Hunt also supports the Annual Harvester’s Survey and helps to gather information on the number, species, and location of animals taken by MNO Harvester’s Certificate Holders.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes:
  • Strong knowledge of Métis way of life, particularly harvesting and land/water-based activities
  • Strong desire to act in the service of the Métis Citizens, to advance and uphold Métis rights and culture
  • Significant knowledge of Métis and/or Indigenous rights and policy issues and principles or a demonstrated ability to quickly acquire knowledge
  • Robust, effective leadership and management skills, including skill to work collaboratively using a team-based approach.
  • Effective interpersonal skills to liaise with a wide variety of government partners and internal and external stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated understanding of government processes and protocol at the provincial and federal level.
  • Skill and experience speaking to a variety of audiences.
  • Demonstrated alignment with MNO’s Statement of Prime Purpose
  • Demonstrated ability to adhere to all relevant related legislation, including privacy laws, and to respect confidential information.
  • A high degree of digital literacy, including knowledge of MS Office software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  • Ability and willingness to work flexible hours (including weekends as required) and travel throughout Ontario.
  • Knowledge of the Métis and/or Indigenous policy issues, or demonstrated ability to quickly acquire and expand their knowledge of Métis specific matters is a definite asset.