Chief Executive Officer – British Columbia Forestry Investment Platform

Job Location: Vancouver, British Columbia (or remote within British Columbia)

The incoming Board of the BCFIP is seeking a founding CEO to support design and establishment of the platform, to oversee blended finance vehicle structuring and capital raising, investment pipeline development, due diligence and drafting of investment papers, negotiations with stakeholders, communities, First Nations and Federal, Provincial and local governments, and to oversee transaction implementation and operational management. This is an exciting opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a transformative venture which may help reset the course of forestry in BC.

We are seeking candidates with:

• An understanding of the current state of the forestry industry in British Columbia, including industry structure, market dynamics, supply chains, local and provincial public policy, First Nations forestry investment, and community forestry models;
• An extensive network of contacts and a strong reputation with stakeholders in the BC forestry sector;
• A demonstrated commitment to economic, environmental, community, and climate impact in British Columbia;
• 20+ years of background in forestry, business management, and/or investment management, with demonstrated experience in a start-up environment;
• Experience in aspects of forestry acquisitions, operational management, wood processing, First Nations and Government relations, payments for ecosystem services, environmental markets, and other non-timber revenue;
• Understanding of private investment management including capital raising and investor relations;
• Experience with blended finance;
• Experience in leading mixed teams of employees and external contractors;
• Excellent communications skills;
• An entrepreneurial spirit, balancing a strong vision with a focus on execution, business operations, and a relentless drive to get things done.

Remuneration

Starting salary for this position is expected to be CAN 180,000 to 200,000 plus benefits.

Application Process

If you are interested in this position and meet the qualifications above, please submit a single PDF document containing a one-page cover letter and CV/resume outlining your interest in this position and why you would be a good fit. Please note that the cover letter is considered an important aspect of the application and will be evaluated against the qualifications above. Applications that do not include a cover letter will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Global Development Incubator is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

The British Columbia Forestry Investment Platform (BCFIP) is being established by long-term forestry investment specialist David Brand and the Global Development Incubator, with support from the BC Parks Foundation. The investment platform will launch a blended finance vehicle to invest in forestry opportunities in British Columbia in partnership with First Nations and local communities targeting commercial rates of return, community economic development, and biodiversity and climate benefits. Platform investments may include acquisition of forest land tenures, forestry operations, wood processing, forest conservation and restoration programs and other activities that will create long-term sustainable economic, community, and conservation outcomes, with an initial focus in coastal British Columbia.