Director of Autonomy

The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) allows students of all nations to learn in an environment of First Nations cultures and values. The University continues to uphold its mission of enhancing the quality of life and preserving, protecting, and interpreting First Nations people's history, language, culture, and artistic heritage. FNUniv is a unique learning place specializing in Indigenous knowledge and providing post-secondary education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students within a culturally supportive environment.The First Nations University of Canada is a federated college of the University of Regina, and its academic programs are accredited through that institution.FNUniv’s values include wisdom, respect, humility, sharing, harmony, beauty, strength, and spirituality.This position reports and has direct accountability to the President to lead and guide an institution-wide initiative. The primary purpose of this position is to secure academic autonomy for FNUniv and develop a comprehensive set of policies and procedures that embody Indigenous ways of being, knowing, and doing that support academic operational independence.Duties:Through the guidance of the kehte-ayk/Elders and in consultation with the FNUniv community (students, faculty, staff, alumni, Elders, and leadership), the Director will lead the planning, development, writing, and completion of a multi-generational (7 generations) vision and a strategic document, one that embodies Indigenous ways of being, knowing, and doing, the First Nations University of Canada history, and a self-determined future.Plan and organize gatherings to present progress on the academic autonomy journey, to gather input, and celebrate milestone successes.Work with and alongside the Vice-President, Academic to facilitate academic autonomy.Provide leadership to all the autonomy project team through a clear strategic vision and support of that vision through all activities and project plans.Work with government relations to lobby all levels of government and advocate for operational funding that supports a fully autonomous university.Support the planning, development, and implementation of an organizational framework that is recognized as self-determined.Explore and document, in detail, the options and viable pathways for FNUniv’s accreditation and portability of First Nations University of Canada degrees.Manage autonomy project staff effective recruitment, selection, training, organization of functions, establishment of procedures and standards, monitoring of performance and focusing on staff efforts and university goals including scheduling and prioritizing of staff workloads and developing, mentoring, and coaching others.Manage the program budgets by developing, reviewing, and maintaining budgets in collaboration with Senior Management.Qualifications:Applicants must have a Master’s degree. Preference is given to applicants with a PhD degree with a minimum of ten (10) years of related experience, preferably in a post-secondary environment. Familiarity and knowledge of Indigenous cultural protocols and ceremonial observances is essential. Proven experience in the coordination of Indigenous educational events. Familiarity with academic ceremonies, traditions, and protocols would be considered an asset, as would having experience with developing and teaching programs.Experience in working with diverse groups of organizations and peoples, particularly students, Indigenous communities, and partners. Proven understanding of university administrative structures and Indigenous governance systems, policy and community development, and educational support programs. Knowledge and enthusiasm for adult teaching, outreach, and engagement of higher education with communities. Knowledge of the First Nations University of Canada, the province, and Indigenous residents therein are essential.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:Results driven with a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and dedication; demonstrated exceptional relationship building skills.Proven integrity, ethics, diplomacy, and tact.Possess positive, well-established relationships with Indigenous communities, leaders, and cultural knowledge keepers.Ability to manage and prioritize several projects simultaneously with the proven ability to meet deadlines and take on challenges.Ability to manage highly sensitive and confidential information.Must have strong communication, research skills, fact-finding, and writing skills.Ability to act decisively and to exercise a high degree of diplomacy, confidentiality, initiative, and judgment.If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online at www.fnuniv.ca.Closing Date: October 31, 2024We would like to thank you for your interest and to all those that applied; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The First Nations University of Canada relies on section 48 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code to give preference in employment for this position. Please indicate your status in your cover letter or resume.Questions regarding this opportunity can be directed by email at [email protected]. We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. However, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. #J-18808-Ljbffr