Associate, Governance (5-10 year call) Full Time NEW

At Mandell Pinder LLP, we’ve served at the forefront of law for over 40 years. We are a full-service boutique law firm with unrivaled depth and breadth of experience in Aboriginal law. Providing innovative legal services for protecting and advancing the interests of Indigenous peoples and governments, we collaborate with our clients by grounding our work in their expertise and unique knowledge. In our practice, we seek to ensure that the law is used as an agent for positive change for Indigenous communities.

Mandell Pinder LLP is looking for an associate, ideally with 5-10 years of experience in Indigenous governance and negotiation experience and familiarity with Aboriginal law, to join our team.

The Associate, focussed on Indigenous Governance, will advise Indigenous Nations and organizations on governance matters, including governance structures, laws, policies, and procedures; decision‑making frameworks and institutional design; and Nation‑specific governance implementation and reform. Draft and advise on Indigenous laws, constitutions, codes, policies, and related legal instruments. Provide strategic advice to leadership, councils, boards and administrators. Represent and advise Indigenous governments in the negotiation of agreements with other levels of government, Crown corporations, and private sector organizations regarding rights recognition, shared decision-making, self-government, and the settlement of historical claims. Work collaboratively with partners and other associates across governance, advisory, and litigation files. Direct and mentor junior associates and articling students, as appropriate. Participate in long‑term client relationships and community‑focused legal work.

Qualifications:
• Mature outlook, 5-10 year call in good standing with the Law Society of BC
• Demonstrated experience advising Indigenous governments, councils, or organizations on governance‑related matters
• Strong drafting, analytical, negotiation, and advisory skills
• Comfortable managing files with a high degree of independence
• Communicate clearly with diverse audiences, including elected leadership, administrators and community members
• Bring sound judgment, professionalism and cultural awareness to their practice
• Ability to travel and foster relationships with clients in their communities
• Uphold high professional and ethical standards

Mandell Pinder has a preferential hiring program approved under section 42 of BC’s Human Rights Code, which is intended to increase representation of Indigenous Peoples within the firm; improve equity for Indigenous Peoples within the legal profession; support Indigenous firm members’ unique experiences, perspectives and needs, and better serve our Indigenous clients. We encourage those who self-identify as Indigenous to apply.