Director of Farm Operations

Over the past decade, We’koqma’q has proven to be a community on the rise.  The We’koqma’q Band and the community have a vision for a successful future.  They are committed to the vision of a vibrant and strong economic base and to improving all community members' overall quality of life and well-being; committed to building, improving, innovating, creating, and transforming health care, education, fishing, business, transportation, and housing.  Developing a thriving aquaculture community is a part of this vision, with We’koqma’q First Nation (WFN) Fish Farm Limited being the heart of this initiative.

WHI General Partner Incorporated is seeking a Director of Farm Operations for WFN Fish Farm Ltd. to oversee their premium trout steelhead aquaculture operations.  

This position is located in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.  This is a unique opportunity to truly make a difference in a beautiful location ranked #1 Island in North America by Condé Nast Traveler readers and #1 Island in Canada by Travel + Leisure readers. 

As the Director of Farm Operations, you will report to the CEO and be accountable for the strategic direction and leadership of the sea cage production stage and the day-to-day operations. 

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Leading the overall production planning of the company
• Developing, reviewing, and implementing optimal and best production practices
• Training and mentoring staff on the execution of daily tasks and proper procedures
• Ensuring the execution of daily tasks relevant to all aspects of farm operations, including site safety, staffing, fish husbandry, biosecurity, feeding, harvesting, and maintenance of site and equipment
• Ensuring adherence to all relevant laws, government regulations, industry codes, and company policies
• Building relationships with regulatory organizations
• Projecting and managing the budget
• Completing required reporting and record keeping

The ideal candidate would have the following:

• Minimum five years’ combined seawater experience as a site or area manager or in an operational role
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing people
• Strong demonstrated skills in communication, people management, production planning, and extensive training/experience in fish husbandry.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in an ever-changing environment
• Service-minded and trustworthy
• Desire to reside in a rural area

To be successful in the role:

You like to be in charge, lead and direct others while keeping the team focused on objectives.  You can be very confident and self-assured even in unfamiliar situations and groups.  You are team-oriented, considerate, and enjoy working with others.  You are seen as pragmatic, target-oriented, and focused on reaching goals.  Your approach is very systematic and well organized, with defined clear priorities.  One of your skills is planning well ahead with realistic timelines. You will see a job through to the end and pay close attention to quality issues.  You set self-ambitious and demanding targets and enjoy complex challenges.  You want to get ahead and succeed.
 

What we offer:

Competitive salary
Great benefits
Housing allowance
Work-life balance
Purposeful work culture