Who We Are
Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.
SFU is in the midst of redefining the structure, staffing and strategy that guides the university’s Truth & Reconciliation work and compliance with external frameworks. The Office for Indigenous Peoples builds on many years of great work at the Office for Aboriginal Peoples and exciting changes at the leadership level that created the position of Indigenous Executive Lead. The Office's work includes supporting safe and welcoming spaces, systems and programs for Indigenous students, faculty and staff; operating the First Peoples' Gathering House; building and sustaining a new Indigenous governance structure for SFU; managing Indigenous strategies at the university; and cultivating reciprocal relations with Host Nations and external Indigenous partners. In the spirit of Indigenization, Decolonization and Reconciliation, the small, dedicated OIP team works collaboratively, with mutual respect and compassion.
About the Role
The Director, Office for Indigenous Peoples (OIP) provides leadership for the OIP and the First Peoples' Gathering House (FPGH) at SFU, overseeing programs, personnel, operations, budgets, and risk management. Working closely with the Indigenous Executive Lead, the Director helps drive the development and leads the implementation of a renewed Indigenous Strategic Plan. The role leads institution-wide efforts to advance Indigenization and Decolonization, ensuring culturally safe and welcoming spaces for Indigenous students, faculty, and staff, and spearheading strategic initiatives such as SFU's Indigenous Welcoming Procedure. The Director cultivates and maintains strong, high-level relationships with Host Nations, external Indigenous organizations, and internal university partners to deepen Indigenous engagement, support academic transformation, and promote the recruitment, retention, and success of Indigenous students.
The ideal candidate would be an experienced and skilled manager with a passion for pursuing Truth, Reconciliation, Indigenization and Decolonization in post-secondary education. Pursuant to Section 42 of the B.C. Human Rights Code, the selection for this position will be limited to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous and will bring to their work the perspective that comes from the lived experiences of those underrepresented in higher education, particularly the experiences of Indigenous peoples. Indigenous candidates must self-identify in their application to be considered for the position. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter describing their interest in and qualifications for the role, in addition to a resume and completion of an Applicant Demographic Survey.
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