Dean of Kinesiology

University of New Brunswick

Fredericton, NB

Lead and Inspire the Next Era of Discovery and Innovation in Human Movement, Recreation, and Sport.

University of New Brunswick (UNB) respectfully acknowledges that it stands on the unsurrendered and unceded traditional Wolastoqey land.

UNB is a top comprehensive university in Canada with more than 100 world-class programs within a personalized, student-centred learning environment. Founded in 1785, UNB offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across 60 disciplines and continuing education opportunities. Recognized for its culture of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, it combines its heritage with a forward-looking commitment to research, scholarship, and community impact. UNB is nationally distinguished for academic excellence and community impact, guided by the strategic vision UNB: Toward 2030.

We are recruiting our next Dean of Kinesiology. This is an exciting leadership opportunity to guide a dynamic and interdisciplinary Faculty at a time of institutional innovation and strategic growth. The appointment is full-time, for a five-year renewable term, with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2026.

UNB’s Faculty of Kinesiology offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Kinesiology Science, as well as Recreation and Sport Studies and Management, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing research and teaching that build healthier communities. With a strong reputation as a national leader at the forefront of change in these fields and state-of-the-art facilities, the Faculty is poised for exciting developments, including new graduate programs and expanded partnerships across health, recreation, and sport sectors.

Reporting to the Provost and Vice President Academic, and a member of Deans Council, the Dean of Kinesiology provides strategic and operational leadership for the Faculty of Kinesiology, overseeing academic programming in Kinesiology Science, as well as Recreation and Sport Studies and Management, research activities, student experience, and guiding faculty and staff in a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment.

A visionary, collaborative academic leader and relationship builder, adept at balancing strategy, operations, culture, and advocacy. The Dean will advance the academic plan 2025-2030 and elevate the Faculty’s visibility and impact across the province, the country, and beyond, through innovation, meaningful partnerships, and a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. They cultivate a respectful, inclusive, and collegial environment, champion a shared sense of purpose and accountability and steward resources responsibly.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent in Kinesiology, Sport and/or Recreation, or a closely related field and bring progressive senior academic leadership experience. They will have a strong scholarly record and experience in strategic planning, program development, change management, budget stewardship, and people management in multi-unionized environments, preferably in interdisciplinary settings. They will demonstrate a deep commitment to fostering Indigenous engagement, equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Consistent with the University's commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, we encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and other racialized scholars, and members of equity-deserving groups. If you believe you can contribute meaningfully to the Faculty’s vision and leadership, we welcome your application.

To learn more about the University of New Brunswick, please visit: https://www.unb.ca/

The University of New Brunswick is committed to employment equity and fostering diversity within our community and developing an inclusive workplace that reflects the richness of the broader community that we serve. The University welcomes and encourages applications from all qualified individuals who will help us achieve our goals, including women, visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

Royer Thompson will provide accommodations to applicants living with or experiencing disabilities. If you require an accommodation(s) to participate in the application, interviewing or selection process, please contact Erica Armstrong at earmstrong@royerthompson.com.

Please submit a combined resume and cover letter online by clicking “Apply.” For further information about this opportunity, please contact Dr. Dominique Roche (droche@royerthompson.com) or Erica Armstrong (earmstrong@royerthompson.com) in confidence.

Royer Thompson is a Canadian executive advisory firm focused on capturing the full potential of people in pursuit of leadership and organizational excellence.