Strategic Initiatives Officer
Job Description
This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.
This position has an estimated start date of June 1, 2026 and a term length of 14 months
Location - This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton.
This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in shaping strategic initiatives in a dynamic, complex academic environment. You will work closely with senior leadership, influence institutional priorities, and contribute to enhancing the graduate student experience across the university.
The Strategic Initiatives Officer (SIO) plays a critical leadership role in advancing faculty and university-wide priorities within the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS). Reporting to the Faculty General Manager, this position is responsible for planning, managing, and executing complex strategic initiatives from concept through implementation.
Working closely with the Vice-Provost and Dean, Vice-Dean, and senior leadership, the SIO provides high-level analysis, strategic advice, and project leadership on initiatives aligned with institutional priorities. The role requires strong political acumen, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate complex governance structures while maintaining a high degree of professionalism and confidentiality.
As a key member of the GPS leadership team, the SIO also oversees governance processes, supports strategic operations within the Office of the Vice-Provost and Dean, and leads the Office Services team to ensure effective and coordinated administrative support.
Strategic Planning & Advisory
- Provide strategic advice and recommendations to senior leadership on complex institutional issues
- Align faculty initiatives with university priorities and long-term strategic direction
- Conduct environmental scans, risk assessments, and best practice reviews to inform decision-making
- Anticipate emerging issues and mobilize resources to support effective change
Project & Initiative Management
- Lead and manage complex, faculty-level initiatives with university-wide impact
- Develop project frameworks, work plans, and governance structures
- Monitor progress, manage risks, and ensure alignment with strategic objectives
- Research, develop, and present reports, proposals, and recommendations through governance channels
- Oversee implementation of approved initiatives and track outcomes
Governance & Policy Coordination
- Coordinate GPS governance processes, including policy and program approvals
- Manage key governance committees and meetings chaired by the Vice-Provost and Dean
- Maintain decision records and provide reporting to ensure transparency and accountability
- Liaise with central governance offices to ensure adherence to protocols and timelines
Strategic Operations & Executive Support
- Support the Office of the Vice-Provost and Dean in managing priorities, workflows, and emerging issues
- Oversee coordination of senior leadership schedules, meetings, and deliverables
- Prepare and review confidential correspondence, reports, and briefing materials
- Participate in leadership and advisory committees to ensure alignment and coordination
Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships
- Build and maintain strong relationships across faculties, departments, and administrative units
- Facilitate collaboration, consultation, and consensus-building across diverse stakeholders
- Act as a key liaison between GPS, academic units, and central services
- Lead and support internal engagement initiatives, including staff meetings and retreats
Policy & Case Management
- Manage sensitive and complex student cases with discretion and sound judgment
- Oversee workflows related to exceptional cases requiring senior leadership review
- Support policy development and implementation within the graduate education framework
Leadership & Supervision
- Lead and support the Office Services team, including the Executive Coordinator and Executive Assistant
- Foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment
- Oversee workload planning, performance management, and succession planning
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance operational efficiency
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; equivalent combination of education and progressive experience will be considered
- Significant experience in strategic planning, project management, or policy development in a complex organization
- Experience in a post-secondary environment, particularly in graduate education, is strongly preferred
- Familiarity with the University of Alberta and its strategic plan, key initiatives, structures, policies, procedures, governance pathways, and graduate administration is essential to success in this role
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong understanding of university governance, policies, and administrative structures
- Demonstrated understanding of organizational dynamics and ability to navigate complex institutional environments
- Proven ability to lead complex initiatives and influence decision-making at senior levels
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strategic mindset
- Superior written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with a collaborative approach
- High level of discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter. Applications must include a cover letter tailored to this position to be considered.
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, and an annual salary range of $71,856 to $119,681.
The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule G of the collective agreement between the University and the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.