June 1, 2026
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) is committed to meaningful Indigenous engagement as a core part of its mission to grow Canada’s ocean economy sustainably. Grounded in the principles of reconciliation, respect for Indigenous rights, and recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems, the OSC works collaboratively with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across Canada to create economic, training, employment, and business development opportunities aligned with community priorities. Through initiatives such as the Two-Eyed Seeing program, which brings together Indigenous knowledge and Western science, the Indigenous Career Pivot Program, which connects Indigenous talent to ocean-sector careers, and the Indigenous Coastal Innovation Challenge, which supports Indigenous-led climate resilience and ocean innovation projects, the OSC is helping increase Indigenous participation and leadership in Canada’s ocean economy. Indigenous perspectives are increasingly integrated across OSC-funded projects, partnerships, and policy development, reflecting the organization’s commitment to co-creation, capacity building, and ensuring Indigenous communities are active partners in shaping the future of Canada’s ocean sector.
A commitment to meaningful Indigenous engagement (not a single position)
OSC recognizes that Indigenous perspectives cannot be represented through a single voice or seat. The Board is therefore seeking to build a broader and more sustained relationship with Indigenous leaders, including those from Arctic regions, through:
- Board membership opportunities for Indigenous candidates
- Potential committee participation, including advisory or audit-related roles aligned with expertise
- Ongoing engagement with Indigenous leaders and communities to inform Board discussions and strategic direction
This approach is intended to ensure that Indigenous and Arctic Indigenous perspectives are integrated in a sustained and meaningful way, consistent with OSC’s commitment to inclusive governance.
What you would contribute
OSC is seeking Indigenous leaders who can contribute to Board oversight and strategy in alignment with its competency-based Board model, where Directors are appointed based on complementary skills, experience, and expertise.
Areas of contribution may include:
- Strategic insight into Indigenous economic development and participation in the ocean economy
- Knowledge of Arctic, Northern, or remote coastal communities and industries (considered a strong asset)
- Experience engaging with government, industry, or community partners
- Contributions across key Board competency areas such as governance, investment, financial literacy, and ESG considerations
What participation looks like
For those appointed to the Board:
- Virtual Board meetings are held 6–10 times per year, with 1–2 in-person meetings annually
- Estimated time commitment is approximately 3–4 hours per month, which may increase with committee involvement
- Participation in committee work (including potential advisory engagement) may be available for candidates not immediately appointed to the Board
OSC recognizes that meaningful engagement may take different forms and is open to structuring participation in ways that are respectful, flexible, and impactful.
Diversity, independence, and Board composition
OSC is committed to building a Board that reflects diverse perspectives and experiences, including Indigenous and Arctic Indigenous voices.
As part of overall Board composition, consideration will be given to:
- Indigenous identity (including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis)
- Arctic and Northern representation
- Gender balance and visible minority representation
- Independent Director requirements, in accordance with OSC governance obligations
How to express interest
If you are interested in engaging with the OSC Board of Directors—either as a Board member or through broader advisory and committee involvement—please submit:
- A completed Nomination Form, and
- Your CV (combined into one PDF) to nominations@oceansupercluster.ca by July 2nd.