Chief Operations Officer (COO), Resort Tourism ($110K - $130K/yr + on-site accommodation and relocation assistance to Denny Island, BC)

• Advance your career with a leading First Nations-owned eco-tourism resort in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest
• Enjoy a highly competitive salary of $110,000 - $130,000, on-site accommodations, and travel benefits to support work-life balance
• Lead operations at a remote yet thriving destination, shaping its growth while fostering community-driven tourism and sustainability

Shearwater Resort & Marina, the Gateway to the Great Bear Rainforest, is more than a destination. It is a way of life on British Columbia’s central coast. Owned by the Heiltsuk Nation, it blends Indigenous traditions with modern hospitality, offering world-class fishing, wilderness exploration, and cultural experiences. Guests immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest while enjoying oceanfront accommodations, guided tours, and a full-service marina. Working here means joining a team driven by adventure, hospitality, and sustainability. Whether your passion lies in outdoor tourism, marine operations, or guest services, Shearwater offers the chance to be part of something bigger. Nature takes the lead, and every day brings something new.

For more information, please visit our website: shearwater.ca

Shearwater Resort, owned and operated by the Heiltsuk Nation, is looking for a full-time Chief Operating Officer (COO) based in Denny Island, BC, with the option for a hybrid work arrangement requiring at least three weeks per month on-site.

Reporting to the Board of Directors of Shearwater Resort & Shearwater Fuel, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing daily operations, driving revenue growth, and ensuring seamless coordination across all resort departments while upholding Shearwater’s commitment to sustainability, cultural engagement, and community development.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for leading operational strategies, enhancing guest experiences, and ensuring financial and operational efficiency across Shearwater Resort’s diverse services, including accommodations, dining, marine services, and cultural programs.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Overseeing all resort operations, ensuring smooth coordination across accommodations, dining, marine services, and community facilities
• Developing and implementing operational strategies that align with the resort’s mission and financial goals
• Leading initiatives to expand offerings, attract new markets, and enhance guest experiences
• Managing financial performance, monitoring budgets, and identifying opportunities for revenue growth and cost efficiencies
• Providing leadership and mentorship to department managers to foster collaboration and staff development
• Driving sustainability initiatives, including eco-friendly operations and resource conservation
• Strengthening relationships with community partners, suppliers, and stakeholders to support the resort’s long-term success
• Ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements while maintaining high operational standards

To read the full position description, please click here.

To qualify, you will need a degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field, with 10+ years of experience in operations management, and 5+ years in a senior leadership role within the hospitality, tourism, or eco-tourism industries will also be essential. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

Experience in a First Nations or Indigenous community organization is an asset but not required—we welcome candidates who are eager to learn and engage with the Heiltsuk Nation.

The following skills are essential to success in this role:

• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and revenue management
• Proven ability to lead and mentor diverse teams across multiple departments
• Expertise in sustainability initiatives, eco-tourism, and Indigenous cultural engagement
• Experience working with a board of directors or First Nations governance structures
• Ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives to improve operational efficiency
• Strong networking skills to foster partnerships with community leaders, suppliers, and regional tourism providers to enhance the resort’s reach
• Cultural competency and willingness to learn about Heiltsuk traditions and First Nations governance
• Hold an MBA (asset)

As our ideal candidate, you are a decisive and inspiring leader with a talent for mentoring teams and driving business strategies that balance growth with sustainability. You bring adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a hands-on approach to managing complex operations. With a deep respect for Indigenous governance, you understand the nuances of working within a First Nations community, fostering collaboration while honoring tradition.

This is a chance to shape Shearwater Resort’s future as an HTC-owned entity and strengthen its position as a premier eco-tourism destination. Success in this role requires more than operational expertise. You must confidently communicate long-term business goals, build trust with passionate community members, and develop strong regional tourism partnerships that support sustainable growth.

Compensation based on skills and experience, is a competitive annual salary of $110,000 - $130,000, and a host of excellent benefits including:

• Comprehensive Benefits Plan: extended health care, dental, vision, life and long-term disability, etc.
• Round-trip flights between Bella Bella and Vancouver
• On-site three-bedroom accommodations provided
• Travel and accommodation allowances to support your time in the community under a hybrid work arrangement
• Relocation Assistance if you choose to move to Denny Island
• Access to K-12 schools
• Paid time off - 4 weeks
• Sick days - 18 days
• Family responsibility time-off - 60 hours
• License and membership fee coverage
• Enjoy the beautiful region and immerse yourself in community events throughout the year!

If you tick all of these boxes and believe you will thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!