Making a lasting impact. Work with purpose.

Key Responsibilities

• Operationalizing and managing the execution of the multi-year research strategic plan.
• Providing intellectual and Indigenous leadership in the design, methodology, and execution of research initiatives.
• Supporting the expansion of the department's influence by cultivating foundational and academic partnerships that generate robust, actionable insights.
• Overseeing the production and translation of high-impact research findings into accessible formats, equipping the VP and executive team for national advocacy and engagement.
• Representing the department at national and international forums to elevate the organization's research practices and institutional credibility.
• Synthesizing research findings to provide data-driven recommendations that support the VP and executive team in navigating internal and external policy shifts.
• Utilizing research to inform internal decision-making, team priorities, and resource allocation.

• Leading, mentoring, and developing a multidisciplinary research team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Overseeing research planning, project management, and evaluation to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables align with organizational priorities.
• Managing the departmental budget, resource allocation, and reporting in alignment with strategic goals.
• Establishing and upholding data security protocols and privacy policies in compliance with ethical research standards and Indigenous data governance principles (e.g., OCAP®).
• Managing the day-to-day operations and execution of the Research Ethics Board (REB).
• Maintaining the organization's SSHRC institutional eligibility and compliance.
• Acting as the primary administrative lead for STATCAN data access and oversee deemed employees.

• Managing the administrative and operational execution of partnerships with post-secondary institutions, research collectives, and Indigenous communities to ensure research deliverables are met.
• Drafting, negotiating, and managing the administrative life cycle of collaborative research agreements and MOUs with external stakeholders.
• Directing the day-to-day cross-functional collaboration with internal teams to ensure the seamless operational integration of research and evaluation initiatives across the organization.

• Operationalizing and managing the multi-year Knowledge Mobilization strategy to ensure findings are effectively shared and utilized across diverse audiences.
• Leading the production and packaging of research findings across multiple platforms, including reports, academic publications, digital media, and workshops, ensuring materials are accessible and culturally relevant.
• Driving the operational mechanics of impact measurement, standardizing models and data collection to clearly demonstrate the value and outcomes of the department's work.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in research, education, social sciences, or a related field; doctoral degree preferred.
• Proven experience in leading research initiatives, particularly with a focus on Indigenous methodologies and systemic change.
• 5–7 years of leadership experience, including managing teams, budgets, and complex projects.
• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, languages, traditions, and perspectives, with a demonstrated commitment to reconciliation and equity.
• Advanced skills in program evaluation, impact assessment, and data analytics using software such as NVivo, SPSS, or similar is preferred.
• Strong understanding of research ethics, institutional compliance (e.g., REB, Tri-Council/SSHRC guidelines), and Indigenous data governance principles (e.g., OCAP®).
• Superior communication and relationship-building skills, with a track record of engaging diverse stakeholders and Indigenous communities.
• Experience presenting at academic forums and translating complex research into actionable insights to support policy development. (Revised to remove "advocating for policy change”)
• Proven ability to navigate and influence in cross-functional and multi-stakeholder environments.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to balance competing priorities.
• Ability to travel and work evenings or weekends as needed.

What We Offer

• A competitive benefits and pension plan.
• 3 weeks’ vacation with paid personal and sicks day as well as additional holiday closings.
• A passionate, dedicated team culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and cultural learning.
• The chance to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of Indigenous students.

Deadline for Applications: May 7, 2026, at 5:00 pm EST