Brandon University (BU) is currently accepting applications for the position of Dean of the Faculty of Science. We are seeking a collaborative academic leader who will lead the Faculty of Science of Manitoba's third largest university. Brandon University campuses are located on Treaty 1 and Treaty 2 territories, and are gathering places for people from many backgrounds and from around the world. In this way, we carry on the Indigenous customs of our home in Brandon, which is the traditional shared territory between the Dakota, Anishanabek, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. Today, many other Indigenous people call Brandon their home, including the Cree, Oji‐Cree, Dene and Inuit. We at Brandon University acknowledge and respect the history, land, plants, animals, and the people of this area.
Brandon University enjoys a long and storied history as an institution of higher education. First as a college and since 1967 as a University, BU is a mature institution. With faculty from around the world and a strong cohort of international and domestic students, we serve not just our region but Canada and beyond. Brandon University has a strong culture of research from faculty, post‐doctoral fellows, and graduate and undergraduate students. Our smaller class size provides opportunities to work with professors that are not readily available in larger institutions. Brandon University recently launched Mamaawii‐atooshke aakhihkiwiin, the University's Strategic Plan 2022‐2027, with a bold and ambitious vision to be Canada's finest regional university.
Brandon University highly values diversity, inclusion and equity. In line with the calls to action in the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, we are committed to redressing the wrongs of settler colonization inflicted upon Indigenous peoples, and we work in collaboration with Indigenous communities to implement strategies to eliminate educational gaps between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous Canadians. We welcome diversity in all its forms with the knowledge that more and different voices create a better community.
Brandon University is committed to improving equity and diversity among University employees and particularly within leadership. In accordance with this commitment, preference will be given to individuals who may contribute to the diversification of the University, especially those who are Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, women, living with a disability, non‐binary, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. Candidates from these groups are encouraged to self‐identify. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority. Evidence of citizenship must be provided.
The PositionReporting to the Provost and Vice‐President (Academic) and working and consulting with internal and external stakeholders, the Dean of Science is responsible for providing strategic leadership and executing on a shared vision for the Faculty of Science. The Dean of Science will provide administrative leadership to the Faculty including academic programs and budgets, mentoring and supporting faculty and staff, and serving on key University committees. The Dean of Science will collaborate with a diverse and engaged group of faculty, staff and students in a variety of disciplines, and guide the Faculty into the future.
Aligned with the University's mission, vision and strategic plan, the Dean will develop, lead and manage student focused education and resources while fostering a positive learning and working culture. The Dean will also encourage, promote, and facilitate research in the Faculty. The Dean is accountable for building effective and collegial relationships within the Faculty of Science and among cognate disciplines in the University, with service and academic partners, and with partners in the community. These relationships will be particularly important in the immediate future as we work on a capital campaign to renovate the Brodie Science Building, and with the University of Manitoba to explore the possibilities of a branch of the U of M Medical School hosted on the Brandon University campus.
The IndividualAs the ideal candidate, you are an engaged and collaborative leader who shares and invites ideas and insights and inspires others in pursuing shared goals. You have an ability to lead within and across a broad range of disciplines, with an understanding of the particular challenges and unique strengths of each. You value the unique benefits of a small university setting, of direct student‐to‐faculty access, and of educational programming that supports the growth and success of Indigenous learners. As a strong people leader and relationship builder, you are able to manage effective relations with faculty and staff through open and inclusive dialogue, and have the ability to build a strong and collaborative team. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, you have a demonstrated understanding of developing the highest quality of teaching and research. You have a strong commitment to increasing accessibility, equity, and diversity, and the ability to maintain an inclusive climate that reflects the University's goals related to EDI and reconciliation. You are a seasoned decision‐maker who builds trust with integrity and transparency, with a commitment to collegial governance. You value relationships within, across, and outside the University and actively build and maintain relationships that support University and community goals.
Experience and QualificationsHow to Apply
If you are interested in pursuing this exciting opportunity, please send by February 26, 2024 , a letter of application including a statement of Canadian citizenship, along with a current cv and the names of three referees who will not be contacted without your permission, to [email protected]. Requests for the Dean of Science Search Executive Brief, and all other enquiries may be directed to the same email address.
Issued January 24, 2024
Brandon University is committed to equity, welcomes diversity, and hires on the basis of merit. All qualified individuals who may contribute to the diversification of the University, especially women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous persons, racialized persons, and persons of all sexual orientations and genders are encouraged to apply. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are given priority. Evidence of citizenship must be provided.
We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment. This starts with the hiring process. Should you require an accommodation during any phase of the recruitment process, contact HR [email protected]. All information received related to an accommodation is kept confidential. To ensure this employment opportunity is accessible to all interested individuals, this posting is available in an alternate format upon request.