FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 21, 2025

BCGEU Files Complaint Against Western Pacific Marine for Bad Faith Bargaining 

BURNABY, B.C. (Coast Salish Territories) – After weeks of extensive bargaining in an attempt to reach a fair agreement, the B.C. General Employees' Union (BCGEU) is filing a formal complaint of bad faith bargaining against Western Pacific Marine (WPM) with the Labour Relations Board. The complaint stems from what the union considers a significant breakdown in negotiations following the company's recent actions. 

For the past several weeks, BCGEU representatives have spent countless hours at the bargaining table with WPM, hopeful that an agreement could be reached to ensure the sustainability of essential ferry services in the Kootenays. Despite these efforts, WPM's conduct throughout the process has been deeply troubling. 

"After weeks of productive discussions and continued hope for a resolution, WPM's recent actions in offering a drastic cut to wage proposals demonstrate a clear lack of good faith in the bargaining process," said Paul Finch, president of the BCGEU. "The company's decision to change its position at the final hour – cutting its offer on wages by more than 60 percent from previous offers – leaves us no choice but to pursue charges of bad faith bargaining with the Labour Relations Board." 

In the official complaint being filed with the Labour Relations Board, the BCGEU has stated that the Employer attempted to frustrate the bargaining process by delaying negotiations so that it could ultimately advocate for government-imposed binding interest arbitration. The BCGEU is highlighting several key issues: 

1. Lack of Sufficient Bargaining Authority – For months, WPM sent individuals to the bargaining table who did not have the authority to make decisions, which severely hindered productive dialogue and the ability to reach a fair settlement 

1. Receding Horizon Bargaining – The union also asserts that WPM engaged in receding horizon bargaining, by leading the union down the path of potential settlement, only to abruptly remove the settlement opportunity at the last possible moment, undermining the entire process 

1. Refusal to Provide Financial Information – Another serious concern raised in the complaint is WPM's refusal to provide the union with essential financial information. This information is critical to fostering rational and informed discussions at the bargaining table and ensuring that any agreements made are based on realistic financial considerations. 

The union had worked diligently through numerous meetings, including multiple Labour Board hearings, and temporarily paused plans for expanding job action in the hope of reaching an agreement. BCGEU members had demonstrated their commitment to finding a resolution, only to be blindsided by WPM's final offer, which not only undermines workers but also threatens the future of ferry services in the region. 

"The reality is that WPM has failed to live up to its obligations in these negotiations. Their actions represent a betrayal of the workers and the communities that depend on ferry services," Finch added. "It is clear that WPM is more focused on short-term profits than addressing the real issues facing ferry workers. As a result, we are left with no choice but to hold them accountable." 

The complaint filed with the Labour Relations Board will address what the union perceives as a violation of fair bargaining practices, specifically citing WPM's failure to engage in meaningful negotiations in good faith. 

BCGEU members have been engaged in job action since October 2024, and WPM's recent wage offer stands in stark contrast to the agreements reached by other inland ferry operators, who agreed to industry-standard contracts in November 2024. 

"We've put in the time and effort to try to reach a fair deal with WPM, but their actions have made it clear to us they are not willing to negotiate in good faith," Finch said. "We will continue to advocate for the workers who are the backbone of these essential services and will pursue every avenue to ensure their rights are protected." 

-30- 

For more information contact: BCGEU Communications – [email protected]

UWU/MoveUP

Temporary (8 months) Human Resources Administrative Assistant and Project Coordinator 

Job ID: EX008

TEMPORARY/FULL-TIME

Location: BURNABY, BC

BCGEU thanks all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada and are residents of the Province of BC.

THE ORGANIZATION

BCGEU is one of the largest and most diverse unions in British Columbia with over 90,000 members in 550 bargaining units in the public and private sector. We trace our beginnings back to the early 1900s when provincial government employees formed an association to address their working conditions. Since then, our union has organized thousands of workers outside the government service. We're continuing to grow.

The BCGEU believes that every worker is entitled to union representation and free collective bargaining without discrimination. Collective bargaining rights are human rights.

We strive to eliminate barriers to members' involvement and inclusion in union activity. All people are entitled to enjoy human rights, political freedom, quality public services, democratic government, and a sustainable environment, in a just society. The BCGEU commits to social justice, equality, workplace safety, decent wages and working conditions. We will pursue social, economic, and political justice as those are the goals upon which the labour movement was founded.

BCGEU offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. But a job is more than a pay cheque. We also offer our staff the opportunity to work together to make a difference. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing they've helped provide justice and fairness for British Columbians.

Department: Human Resources Department

Job Summary: 

Reporting to the Director of HR, the Administrative Assistant & Project Coordinator will be responsible for providing dedicated executive support to the Director of HR while also coordinating the planning, execution, and completion of key HR projects across departments. This dual role combines executive-level support with project management responsibilities, ensuring smooth operation and alignment with organizational goals. The position requires exceptional organization, an ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion, communication, and multitasking skills, with a focus on managing time-sensitive tasks efficiently and facilitating the successful completion of various HR-related projects. 

Salary: $44.78 - $47.96 per hour

Key Responsibilities:

Executive Support for Director of HR: 

• Provide confidential executive support to the Director of Human Resources, including business analysis, preparing presentations and visual documents, technical writing, coordination of meetings, and managing correspondence. 

• Review and summarize sensitive and confidential internal HR-related documents for the Director of Human Resources, Admin Committee, and Human Resources Governance Committee. 

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the Director of HR and internal/external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication, confidentiality, and follow-up. 

• Prepare, review, and proofread HR-related documents, presentations, and reports for the Director of HR, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery. 

• Organize and coordinate meetings for the HR department, including preparing agendas, facilitating workshops and meetings, taking minutes, and following up on action items. 

• Assist the HR department in preparing materials for leadership meetings, presentations, and other key events. 

Project Coordination: 

• Assist in the planning and execution of various HR-projects across departments, ensuring timely and within-budget completion. 

• Create and maintain detailed project timelines, track milestones, and ensure deadlines are met. 

• Coordinate resources, budgets, and logistics for projects, collaborating with internal teams and external vendors as needed. 

• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and proactively resolve problems to keep projects on track. 

• Facilitate communication between project teams and senior management, ensuring alignment on goals, expectations, and deliverables. 

• Maintain project documentation, including process workflow, status reports, and other key reports. 

• Support the preparation and presentation of project updates to senior leadership. 

• Coordinate logistics for internal and external meetings, conferences, and events, including vendor selection, invitations, and material preparation. 

Administrative Support: 

• Manage and maintain filing systems for both digital and physical records, ensuring confidentiality and organization. 

• Assist in budget tracking and expense reporting for the executive team and HR projects. 

• Maintain and prepare reports from a variety of sources dealing with confidential human resource matters. 

• Prepare and submit purchase orders, invoices, and ensure compliance with organizational financial processes. 

• Conduct research, gather data, and provide reports as needed for both executive and project purposes. 

• Handle ad-hoc administrative tasks as required, providing support across different functions within the organization. 

Communication & Collaboration: 

• Foster communication and collaboration between internal teams, departments, and external stakeholders. 

• Coordinate and communicate key HR project updates with stakeholders and ensure all parties are informed and engaged. 

Process Improvement & Efficiency: 

• Design and implement process improvements to enhance the efficiency of administrative and project coordination tasks. 

• Track and analyze project outcomes to provide recommendations for future improvements. 

• Support the development of systems and procedures that improve organizational operations and productivity. 

Education & Relevant Experience: 

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in business administration, project management, or a related field. 

• At least 3 years of experience in an executive assistant or project coordination role. 

• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Visio) and project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, or similar). 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 

• Ability to work independently and take initiative while supporting others. 

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to work. 

• Experience in budget tracking, meeting coordination, and event planning is a plus. 

• Project management certification (PMP, CAPM) is a plus. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Demonstrate ability to deal with others in a highly sensitive labour climate. 

• Demonstrate ability to handle change and model behaviours for others; 

• Ability to build meaningful working relationships with others, both internal and external, including those with different perspectives. 

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. 

• Productive negotiation, mediation, and facilitator skills.

• Understanding the dimensions of equity, diversity and inclusion and the ability to identify structural barriers within the organization.

• Demonstrate commitment to self-awareness and authenticity.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to provide client focused services. 

The BCGEU is committed to employment equity. Indigenous workers, workers of color, women, 2SLGBTQI+ workers, and workers with disabilities are encouraged to apply for positions with the BCGEU.

How to Apply:

Please review the attached job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications and competencies. To be considered for this competition, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume clearly identifying how they meet the qualifications necessary for this position. This information will be used as part of the selection process.

Please include only one attachment with your application. If you need to include both a cover letter and a resume, combine them into a single file before uploading. Please reference the Position Title and the Job ID in the subject line when submitting your application.

Applications will be accepted by e-mail to: [email protected]

If you require accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact [email protected].

UWU/MoveUP

Temporary (8 months) Human Resources Administrative Assistant

Job ID: EX009

TEMPORARY/FULL-TIME

Location: BURNABY, BC

BCGEU thanks all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada and are residents of the Province of BC.

THE ORGANIZATION

BCGEU is one of the largest and most diverse unions in British Columbia with over 90,000 members in 550 bargaining units in the public and private sector. We trace our beginnings back to the early 1900s when provincial government employees formed an association to address their working conditions. Since then, our union has organized thousands of workers outside the government service. We're continuing to grow.

The BCGEU believes that every worker is entitled to union representation and free collective bargaining without discrimination. Collective bargaining rights are human rights.

We strive to eliminate barriers to members' involvement and inclusion in union activity. All people are entitled to enjoy human rights, political freedom, quality public services, democratic government, and a sustainable environment, in a just society. The BCGEU commits to social justice, equality, workplace safety, decent wages and working conditions. We will pursue social, economic, and political justice as those are the goals upon which the labour movement was founded.

BCGEU offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. But a job is more than a pay cheque. We also offer our staff the opportunity to work together to make a difference. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing they've helped provide justice and fairness for British Columbians.

Department: Human Resources Department

Job Summary: 

The Human Resources Administrative Assistant plays a key role in supporting the daily operations and is the first point of contact of the Human Resources department. This position will support efficient HR operations by maintaining accurate records and facilitating smooth processes for various HR tasks involved in talent acquisition, benefits administration, payroll, learning and development, and health and safety. The HR Administrative Assistant will work closely with other HR team members, directors, and leadership to ensure the seamless execution of HR functions while maintaining regulatory compliance and supporting organizational goals. 

Salary: $42.04 - $45.20 per hour

Key Responsibilities:

Workforce Tracking 

• Track and manage important employee changes. 
• Maintain and prepare reports from a variety of sources dealing with confidential human resource matters. 

• Administer and monitor the time and attendance system to ensure accuracy and compliance with company policies and labor regulations across the organization. 

• Monitor and track key employee changes, including new hires, promotions, transfers, terminations, and role adjustments across departments. 

• Ensure the accurate and timely updating of employee records in the HRIS (Human Resources Information System), including job titles, pay changes, and personal information. 

• • Attend confidential meeting to support changes to workforce time and attendance program and module within HRIS.  

Maintain and Prepare Reports from a Variety of Sources Dealing with Confidential Human Resource Matters 

• Compile, analyze, and prepare comprehensive HR reports from multiple data sources related to employee performance, turnover, compensation, diversity, and workforce demographics. 

• Ensure that all reports are handled with a high degree of confidentiality, in accordance with data privacy laws and organizational protocols. 

• Assist in preparing reports for external audits, compliance reporting, or other legal requirements as necessary. 

Recruitment Support 

• Assist in coordinating, short-listing, and scheduling interviews between candidates and hiring managers ensuring all logistics are organized. 

• Assist in preparing job descriptions, drafting offer letters and completing reference checks. 

• Publish job postings internally on the company website and externally on job boards and websites ensuring roles are advertised effectively. 

• Coordinate necessary evaluations and assessments for all employees. 

• Manage and maintain the organization of new hire documents. 

Office Management & Support 

• Answering and triaging incoming emails, which contains confidential personnel information, from the HR outlook inbox.

• Manage office supplies. 

• Track budget which includes collecting and submitted invoices to finance and entering data into tracking tools.

• Attend confidential meetings of the human resources department where confidential personnel and operational decisions are discussed and made. 

Key Success Factors:

• Task prioritization and time management is required to effectively manage multiple tasks from all areas in HR. 

• Effective communication and collaboration contribute to the achievement of departmental goals. 

• Ability to adapt to different situations, tasks and environments is important in a dynamic workplace. 

• Positive interpersonal and customer services skills are key for building strong working relationship within the organization. 

• Demonstrate ability to deliver on project milestones and tasks, contributing to the successful project implementations. 

Education & Relevant Experience:

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field (preferred). 

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with HRIS systems or in an HR support role. 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Knowledge of HRIS systems and HR data management. 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively. 

• Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) for interacting with staff, leadership, and external partners. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. 

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills for tracking and reporting. 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information. 

The BCGEU is committed to employment equity. Indigenous workers, workers of color, women, 2SLGBTQI+ workers, and workers with disabilities are encouraged to apply for positions with the BCGEU.

How to Apply:

Please review the attached job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications and competencies. To be considered for this competition, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume clearly identifying how they meet the qualifications necessary for this position. This information will be used as part of the selection process.

Please include only one attachment with your application. If you need to include both a cover letter and a resume, combine them into a single file before uploading. Please reference the Position Title and the Job ID in the subject line when submitting your application.

Applications will be accepted by e-mail to: [email protected]

If you require accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact [email protected]

UWU/MoveUP

Reminder: if you have flu-like symptoms, please do not visit BCGEU area offices or attend BCGEU related activities (including bargaining meetings, rallies, etc.) until your symptoms are gone.

Symptoms may include cough, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, fever, sore throat, difficulty breathing, muscle aches and pain.

Until your symptoms resolve, avoid close contact with others and stay home unless seeking medical help.

Thank you for your cooperation in preventing the spread of the flu and flu-like viruses.

We are just extending a reminder that if you have not registered for this year's Activist Appreciation Banquet you have until Friday, March 14^th at 5 pm to RSVP using the link below.

As a "Thank You" for your dedication and commitment to the membership of our Union, you and a guest are cordially invited to attend the 2025 Activist Appreciation Banquet. We hope you will take the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful evening with your fellow activists, special guests and Area Office staff.

When: Saturday, March 22^nd, 2025

Where: Victoria Conference Centre
              720 Douglas Street, Victoria

                                                                Doors Open/Registration: 5:30 pm
                                                                Welcome/Speeches:          6:15 pm 
                                                                Dinner:                                7:00 pm
                                                                Live Band! / Dancing:        8:30 pm

This year's theme: Steampunk! (feel free to dress however you would like)

Please RSVP to complete your registration:

http://events.bcgeu.ca/area_01_activists_appreciation_banquet_march_22_2025

Please RSVP by Friday, March 14, 2025 at 5 pm

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if I cannot afford the deposit or don't have a credit card?: Please contact us at [email protected] as we don't want this to be a hardship for our activists.

2. Why is our Union charging a deposit for this event?: We have made the difficult decision to charge a deposit as we have had many no-shows to this event in the past and this costs our Union money and prevents other committed activists from attending.

3. How can I nominate someone for the Cathy McCallum Award?: You can nominate a fellow BCGEU activist using  the form here by March 6, 2025. You can nominate a steward, Local Executive Member and/or an OHS representative who embodies the qualities of Cathy's spirit including commitment, sacrifice, service and making a difference.

4. Union Expenses: As per the BCGEU Financial Manual, hotel accommodation will be provided for those out of town members, if needed, and you will be reimbursed for mileage incurred to and from the event and dependent/family care expenses. For those members living in the greater Victoria area, taxis will be reimbursed, but not ride hailing services. 

5. Dependent/ family care expenses form: Will be sent to those who identified needing a form when registering.

6. Parking: Will be available at the Conference Centre, 720 Douglas Street, you will need to provide payment upfront. When leaving you must identify yourself to the attendant that you are with the BCGEU event and request a receipt. Please submit your receipt on an expense claim form.

The Union will reimburse eligible expenses once your expense claim is received and approved.

If you have any questions/difficulties registering, kindly contact the Victoria Area Office at 1-800-667-1033 or 250-388-9948 or email to [email protected]

Please note that registration will require a deposit of $10.00. The deposit will be refunded to those who attend the event or cancel by Wednesday, March 19^th.

In solidarity,

Area 01 Cross Component Committee

MoveUP
FA-572
UWU/MoveUP

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Western Pacific Marine pulls the rug out on BCGEU members and Kootenays community
Ferry operator slashes wage offers in latest bargaining session, below previous offers

BURNABY, B.C. (Coast Salish Territories) - Following weeks of seemingly productive bargaining between Western Pacific Marine (WPM) and the B.C. General Employees' Union (BCGEU) bargaining committee, union members were shocked today when WPM's owner joined bargaining for the first time to table a final offer that slashed the wage increases previously offered to workers. Just last week, the union negotiating team was reassured by WPM's team that they were close to a deal with terms similar to those agreed to by B.C.'s other inland ferry operators in the fall.

Despite staff retention concerns that frequently leave the ferries unable to sail – as was the case last night –WPM's final offer cut more than 60 per cent of the increases they put forward in October, before job action had even started. Workers at WPM are already paid up to 20% lower than similar roles at BC Ferries, and if this offer were accepted, it would result in even more WPM staff to being poached by BC Ferries or other inland ferry operators.

"Western Pacific Marine's latest offer and the manner in which it was delivered is a flat-out insult to ferry workers and the Kootenays community they serve. To engage in months of bargaining, through job action and multiple Labour Board hearings, only to drastically change their position at the final hour shows that WPM never cared for anything other than their short-term profits," said Paul Finch, president of the BCGEU. "Inland ferries are a vital public service in B.C. that connect otherwise isolated communities, and it's time that government evaluated how suitable WPM – a private, profit-seeking business – is to run this service."

"Other ferry operators have set sustainable wage standards, and WPM is hurting community members by seeking higher profits off of their government contract. WPM was already at threat of losing essential workers to other ferry operators, but now with a wage offer so far below the industry standard WPM is creating a dangerous situation"

During the period of productive negotiations in recent weeks, BCGEU members stood down plans for expanding job action, hopeful of a deal. The two sides met multiple times and had worked through a number of important terms in the collective agreement. In the coming days, the bargaining committee will meet with members to discuss what has happened at the bargaining table and determine their next steps.

"Over the past few weeks, the BCGEU bargaining committee was hopeful of reaching an agreement that would ensure the sustainability of the ferry service, but today Clarke pulled the rug out from under our committee by parachuting in and slashing the wage offer. In our union's opinion, their latest actions constitute bargaining in bad faith, and we will potentially be filing charges at the Labour Board," said Finch.

Bargaining between the two parties began in May 2024 and workers have been engaged in some form of job action since October 12, 2024, with the strike beginning on November 3. BCGEU members at WaterBridge Ferries and WaterBridge Equipment – the other inland ferry operators – ratified new, industry standard agreements in November 2024 with wages that brought their workers in line with comparable roles at BC Ferries.

For more information contact: BCGEU Communications – [email protected]

UWU/MoveUP

EXCLUDED ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, PUBLIC RELATIONS (ES4)

COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

Job ID: EX005

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL POSTING

March 7, 2025

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Director of Communication, the Associate Director - Public Relations, will lead a team responsible for the day-to-day management of key areas within the communications department. In addition to overseeing these responsibilities, this role will be pivotal in building and managing relationships between the President's office and key external stakeholders, including politicians, media, labor organizations, and government agencies. As a strategic advisor, the Press Secretary will assist the President and the Administrative Committee in executing decisions on a range of sensitive and confidential matters. In addition, this role will oversee all public relations activities for the organization, including media relations, public statements, and crisis communications. The Public Relations Officer will also coordinate key communication initiatives and represent the President at various public, political, and union events.

Key Responsibilities:

Confidential Correspondence & Advisory

• Handle sensitive and confidential correspondence for the President, including reviewing and responding to complaints, grievances, and other matters related to public relations, labor relations, and workforce adjustments.
• Advise the President on media strategies and assist in decision-making on confidential organizational matters.
• Draft complex responses to inquiries, assemble detailed briefing documents, and provide context for the President on relevant issues.
• Ensure all communication materials reflect the President's position on policy, organizational goals, and strategic priorities.

Media Relations & Public Communication

• Support the spokesperson for the Union, managing all media inquiries, preparing press releases, and organizing press conferences.
• Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies to promote the organization's values and goals through traditional media, digital platforms, and public communications.
• Accompany the President to media, union, political, and public events, ensuring effective messaging and alignment with the organization's objectives.
• Manage the follow-up on media engagements, ensuring timely, thorough, and accurate responses to media inquiries.
• Liaise with internal departments, including Human Resources, to gather necessary materials and insights for media and public communications related to the President's activities.

Leadership and Team Management

• Conduct regular performance reviews, setting clear goals and expectations for Communications team members.
• Provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and mentorship to enhance team performance and professional growth.
• Address performance issues through appropriate performance management processes and take corrective actions and apply disciplinary measures as needed.
• Provides leadership, supervision, guidance, and direction to staff. Hires and mentors staff, conducts performance reviews, handle discipline problems, and carries out disciplinary actions up to and including termination if required.

Stakeholder & Government Relations

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with BCGEU affiliates, other unions, central labor bodies, government representatives (MPs, MLAs), employers, and the public.
• Ensure effective communication between the President's office and external stakeholders, aligning messages with the union's goals and mission.
• Assist in the development of strategies to advocate for the organization's position in external negotiations, political engagements, and other significant public matters.

Executive & Committee Support

• Provide communication support and strategic advice on media relations, public messaging, and organizational initiatives.
• Provide follow-up on actions delegated by the President, ensuring effective tracking and timely completion of tasks.
• Participate in strategic discussions with senior leadership, ensuring communication efforts align with organizational priorities and support overarching goals.

Communication & Risk Management

• Develop and implement communication strategies to safeguard the President and the organization's reputation during periods of public scrutiny or when managing sensitive issues.
• Coordinate immediate, consistent responses to media inquiries, ensuring alignment across communication platforms.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify potential reputational risks and proactively develop messaging strategies to address them.

Proposal Development & External Relations

• Analyze and evaluate information from both internal and external sources to develop proposals and recommend actions that align with organizational priorities.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to ensure proposals reflect organizational goals and that key issues are addressed effectively in public and media engagements.

Education & Relevant Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a media relations, public relations, or political communications role, preferably in a union or advocacy organization.
• Proven expertise in media relations, communication, drafting speeches, press releases, and managing public messaging.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• A deep understanding of labor relations, union operations, and political dynamics is essential to ensure effective communication strategies are tailored to these environments.
• Extensive experience in media relations, public relations, speechwriting, and digital communications.
• Established relationships with media outlets, political decision-makers, and other external stakeholders.
• Exceptional writing and editing abilities for crafting speeches, press releases, and other communications for senior leadership.

Indigenous candidates are welcome to connect with an Indigenous team member in our organization to discuss the recruitment process and our workplace, please contact [email protected] to arrange a call.

Salary:

Bi-Week: $6,246.59

Annual: $162,969.16

How to Apply:

Please review the attached job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications and competencies. To be considered for this competition, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume clearly identifying how they meet the qualifications necessary for this position. This information will be used as part of the selection process.

Please include only one attachment with your application. If you need to include both a cover letter and a resume, combine them into a single file before uploading. Please reference the Position Title and the Job ID in the subject line when submitting your application.

If you are passionate about what you do and want to use your expertise to engage in meaningful and challenging work, please apply to join our team today at [email protected].

Submit applications no later than 5:00pm, Sunday March 23, 2025.

At BCGEU, we're committed to providing a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace where respect and diversity are recognized assets. We invite and welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, People with Disabilities and Disabled People, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all people committed to meaningful work that makes a difference. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you require accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact [email protected].

UWU/MoveUP

EXCLUDED DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (ES5)

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Job ID: EX006

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL POSTING

March 7, 2025

Job Summary:

The IT Director provides strategic and operational leadership for BCGEU's Information Technology department. Reporting to the Cybersecurity Officer & Solutions Architect, this position oversees the IT Admin Team directly and manages the Associate Director, IT, who leads the IT Support Team. Key responsibilities include implementing and maintaining robust IT General Controls, ensuring SOC 1 Type 2 readiness, and strictly adhering to BCGEU's budgetary constraints. The IT Director will lead infrastructure planning, vendor management, policy development, and compliance efforts, ensuring BCGEU's IT environment supports and advances the union's mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Alignment

• Develop and maintain an IT strategy that supports BCGEU's mission and aligns with the broader technology roadmap set by Cybersecurity Officer & Solutions Architect.
• Prioritize initiatives and resource allocation to ensure critical requirements for IT General Controls and SOC 1 Type 2 readiness are met.
• Stay current with industry trends, evaluating emerging technologies and best practices that enhance governance, security, and operational efficiency.

Governance & Compliance

• Establish, document, and enforce IT General Controls in alignment with SOC 1 Type 2 standards (e.g., access management, change control, operational monitoring).
• Collaborate with internal and external auditors as needed to verify compliance and address any findings related to IT controls.
• Ensure that all IT practices and policies meet applicable privacy and security regulations (e.g., PIPA/PIPEDA).

Budget & Resource Management

• Prepare and manage the IT department's budget in collaboration with the Cybersecurity Officer & Solutions Architect, adhering strictly to BCGEU's budget directives.
• Monitor expenditures to prevent unauthorized spending and identify opportunities for cost optimization without compromising service quality or security.
• Track and report on IT expenditures, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with strategic objectives.

Leadership of IT Admin & Support Teams

• Directly oversee the IT Admin Team, providing guidance, performance reviews, and professional development.
• Partner with the Associate Director, IT, to maintain high-quality operations in the IT Support Team, ensure compliance with defined controls, and swiftly address any service disruptions.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and inclusive work environment, promoting BCGEU's values of respect, fairness, and equality.

Infrastructure & Operations Management

• Oversee the reliability, scalability, and security of BCGEU's IT infrastructure (networks, servers, data centers, cloud services), paying particular attention to SOC 1 Type 2 audit controls.
• Manage hardware and software lifecycles, including procurement, installation, maintenance, and asset tracking.
• Establish and enforce IT policies, standards, and best practices, focusing on operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with technology vendors, service providers, and consultants.
• Negotiate contracts and service-level agreements (SLAs) to optimize cost savings, quality of service, and vendor performance, within approved budgets.
• Monitor vendor deliverables and compliance, addressing performance issues or disputes as needed.

Risk Management & Security

• Implement robust cybersecurity measures, vulnerability assessments, and incident response procedures in line with SOC 1 Type 2 requirements.
• Establish continuous monitoring processes to detect, log, and mitigate potential threats to BCGEU's data and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with the Cybersecurity Officer & Solutions Architect to ensure disaster recovery (DR) and business continuity (BC) plans meet compliance and operational resilience goals.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Director, Membership, Records and Development and other union departments to ensure infrastructure, security, and operational requirements are met.
• Engage with union stakeholders to understand technology needs, gather feedback, and provide updates on major IT initiatives.
• Represent the IT function in cross-functional meetings, promoting transparency and alignment with BCGEU's strategic objectives.

Education & Relevant Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, or a related field; equivalent work experience may be considered.
• 7+ years of progressive IT experience (e.g., systems administration, security, infrastructure management), with at least 3+ years in a supervisory/management role.
• Demonstrated experience implementing or maintaining compliance frameworks (e.g., SOC, ISO, or similar IT General Controls).
• Proven track record of successfully overseeing IT projects, leading teams, managing budgets, and handling vendor relationships in a complex environment.
• Experience working in a unionized or non-profit setting is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Governance & Controls: Deep understanding of IT General Controls (access management, change control, operational monitoring) and SOC 1 Type 2 requirements.
• Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of networking, server administration, cloud services, virtualization, and cybersecurity best practices.
• Leadership & Team Building: Proven ability to inspire and guide diverse teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture.
• Budget Management: Skilled in financial planning, budget tracking, and ensuring strict adherence to spending limits.
• Project Management: Competence in planning, coordinating, and executing multiple initiatives under budget and timeline constraints.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; able to convey technical concepts effectively to non-technical audiences and senior leadership.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Skilled at analyzing complex issues, identifying root causes, and implementing lasting solutions.
• Customer Service Orientation: Dedicated to meeting the internal stakeholders' IT needs with responsiveness and empathy.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment, open to change, and able to pivot strategies as needed.
• Values Alignment: Commitment to BCGEU's principles of fairness, equality, and social justice.

Indigenous candidates are welcome to connect with an Indigenous team member in our organization to discuss the recruitment process and our workplace, please contact [email protected] to arrange a call.

Salary:

Bi-Week: $6,467.12

Annual: $168,722.63

How to Apply:

Please review the attached job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications and competencies. To be considered for this competition, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume clearly identifying how they meet the qualifications necessary for this position. This information will be used as part of the selection process.

Please include only one attachment with your application. If you need to include both a cover letter and a resume, combine them into a single file before uploading. Please reference the Position Title and the Job ID in the subject line when submitting your application.

If you are passionate about what you do and want to use your expertise to engage in meaningful and challenging work, please apply to join our team today at [email protected].

Submit applications no later than 5:00pm, Sunday March 23, 2025.

At BCGEU, we're committed to providing a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace where respect and diversity are recognized assets. We invite and welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, People with Disabilities and Disabled People, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all people committed to meaningful work that makes a difference. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you require accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact [email protected].

UWU/MoveUP

EXCLUDED ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (ES4)

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS DEPARTMENT

Job ID: EX007

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL

March 7, 2025

Job Summary:

The Associate Director, IT is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of BCGEU's IT Support Team. Reporting directly to the Director, IT, this role ensures the delivery of effective, reliable, and secure technical support services to the organization. The Associate Director, IT manages support team personnel, coordinates projects, and partners closely with the Director, IT to align operational initiatives with broader organizational objectives. Additionally, the Associate Director serves as the designate when the Director is unavailable and assists in overseeing all IT-related projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead the IT Support Team in providing timely and high-quality technical support to all BCGEU staff, ensuring that service-level agreements (SLAs) and performance metrics are consistently met or exceeded.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop Support Team members, providing guidance, performance evaluations, and professional growth opportunities.
• Foster a positive, collaborative team culture aligned with BCGEU's values of respect, fairness, and inclusivity.
• Address performance issues through appropriate performance management processes and take corrective actions and apply disciplinary measures as needed.
• Act as the Director's designate in their absence, ensuring continuity of leadership and decision making for the IT department.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Support Team, including incident management, service requests, and on-call rotation.
• Maintain and continuously improve support processes and documentation, promoting knowledge-sharing across the department.
• Track, analyze, and report on support metrics, identifying trends and root causes of issues to drive effective solutions and process improvements.

Project Coordination

• Assist the Director, IT in overseeing IT projects, collaborating with stakeholders to define requirements, set timelines, plan, prioritize, and allocate resources effectively.
• Prepare and present regular status reports highlighting progress, risks, and key milestones, keeping the Director, IT and relevant stakeholders informed.
• Serve as a key point of contact for cross-functional teams to ensure smooth hand-offs and clear communication on project deliverables.

Technology Strategy & Alignment

• Contribute to the development and refinement of IT strategies and roadmaps, particularly as they relate to end-user support, helpdesk tools, and service delivery optimization.
• Assess and recommend new technologies, tools, or best practices to enhance support quality and efficiency.
• Ensure that Support Team initiatives align with the broader IT Department goals set forth by the Director, IT and Cybersecurity Officer & Solutions Architect.

Risk Management & Security Compliance

• Partner with the Director, IT and IT Admin Team to implement and reinforce cybersecurity and data privacy best practices in accordance with BCGEU's governance framework.
• Stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring that the Support Team adheres to protocols designed to protect member and organizational data.
• Oversee compliance within the support function with relevant regulations (e.g., PIPA/PIPEDA), guidelines, and internal policies, elevating risks or issues to the Director, IT as needed.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Act as a liaison between end-users and the IT Department, ensuring clear communication about service expectations, issue resolutions, and project impacts.
• Proactively gather feedback from staff and union members to improve service quality and user satisfaction.
• Present support-related insights, updates, and recommendations to the Director, IT and, when needed, to executive leadership.

Education & Relevant Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, or a related field preferred; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• IT certifications (e.g., ITIL, CompTIA A+/Network+, Microsoft certifications) are beneficial.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in an IT support or service delivery environment, with 2+ years in a supervisory or team lead role.
• Demonstrated track record of managing technical support functions, helpdesk operations, or related IT services in a fast-paced setting.
• Experience in a unionized or non-profit environment is an asset.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Leadership & Team Building: Proven ability to build, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of desktop support, helpdesk software (such as Jira Service Desk), troubleshooting methodologies, and common IT infrastructures (Windows, macOS, mobile platforms).
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to translate technical issues and solutions into clear, concise information for diverse audiences.
• Problem-Solving: Adept at diagnosing complex technical issues, identifying root causes, and implementing lasting solutions.
• Project Management: Capable of coordinating multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks effectively, and meeting deadlines.
• Customer Service Orientation: Commitment to providing exemplary internal customer support, demonstrated through responsiveness and user-centered service delivery.
• Adaptability: Comfortable navigating and leading in an evolving environment, with a proactive approach to change management.

Indigenous candidates are welcome to connect with an Indigenous team member in our organization to discuss the recruitment process and our workplace, please contact [email protected] to arrange a call.

Salary:

Bi-Week: $6,246.59

Annual: $162,969.16

How to Apply:

Please review the attached job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications and competencies. To be considered for this competition, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume clearly identifying how they meet the qualifications necessary for this position. This information will be used as part of the selection process.

Please include only one attachment with your application. If you need to include both a cover letter and a resume, combine them into a single file before uploading. Please reference the Position Title and the Job ID in the subject line when submitting your application.

If you are passionate about what you do and want to use your expertise to engage in meaningful and challenging work, please apply to join our team today at [email protected].

Submit applications no later than 5:00pm, Sunday March 23, 2025.

At BCGEU, we're committed to providing a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace where respect and diversity are recognized assets. We invite and welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, People with Disabilities and Disabled People, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all people committed to meaningful work that makes a difference. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you require accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact [email protected].

UWU/MoveUP