BC Public Service - Internal Job Opportunities

Assistant Deputy Minister
Water, Fisheries and Coast
Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship
Various Locations, BC

The Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship works with other natural resource sector ministries to achieve British Columbia’s goals of reconciliation, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The ministry is directly responsible for the effective development of water, land and marine use policy and planning as well as biodiversity and ecosystem health, species-at-risk policy and program management and developing a new vision for water, land and resource management with First Nations. The ministry is responsible for the administration of water, lands, fish and wildlife while also directing work across natural resource ministries to develop solutions to sector-wide challenges in permitting, policy, data and technology and improving the management of cumulative effects.

The Water, Fisheries and Coast division provides provincial leadership for the stewardship, protection and sustainable management of British Columbia's aquatic, freshwater and marine ecosystems, water resources, and fisheries. It develops policy, legislation, science, and is responsible for statutory decisions and programs to support healthy watersheds, resilient freshwater and marine aquatic ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, water security, and flood and drought resilience. The division works collaboratively with First Nations, governments and partners to advance integrated resource management, reconciliation, and evidence-based decision-making.

The Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM), Water, Fisheries and Coast division, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the province's water, fisheries, watershed and coastal stewardship mandate. The ADM leads the development and implementation of legislation, policy, programs and operations that support sustainable water management, healthy aquatic and marine ecosystems, resilient watersheds, fisheries stewardship, and climate resilience. The ADM also builds and sustains respectful government to government relations with First Nations and works collaboratively with the federal government, local governments, industry and other partners to advance reconciliation, integrated resource management, and the sustainable stewardship of British Columbia's water, fisheries and coastal resources.

The ideal candidate for this role will have significant, demonstrated leadership experience at a senior management or executive level. A related post-secondary degree or an equivalent combination of professional experience, Indigenous knowledge, community leadership, education and other relevant learning will support their leadership experience. This exceptional candidate thrives in a high-profile, sensitive, and complex environment with multiple parties who have different perspectives and interests. Creative and flexible, this exemplary communicator builds and sustains trusted, collaborative relationships with First Nations and other partners. They can see beyond the status quo, envision outcomes, and ensure success.

Along with their talent at building understanding, trust, and collaboration externally, this leader creates a workplace culture that encourages critical thinking and organizational excellence. They set clear strategic objectives, are trusted to make sound decisions in complex and time-sensitive circumstances and are able to support teams to deliver high-quality results.

A complete role description and listing of qualifications is attached. The appointee will be required to consent to a criminal record check and will be required to complete a Conflict of Interest Disclosure, including declaring any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.

The BC Public Service is committed to creating a diverse workplace to reflect the population we serve and to better meet the needs of our citizens. Consider joining our executive team and being part of an innovative, inclusive, and rewarding organization.

To apply please email a clear and concise cover letter and resume in one document (.pdf) to Executive Recruitment at: Executive.Recruitment@gov.bc.ca by October 28, 2026. Please note the application document must be in .pdf format. Email Executive Recruitment if assistance is needed. Thank you to all who express interest.