Purpose:
The Division of Equity, People and Culture is committed to the Anishinaabe teaching of Mino Bimaaddiziwin, the Good Life, across all facets of York University. Our goal is to help nurture an environment where we all have a stronger sense of connection, inclusion, and wellbeing. This is our shared responsibility. We aim to invest in our people and to create an inclusive and equitable environment for all.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice-President of Indigenous Initiatives (AVP), the Manager, Indigenous Initiatives provides management and leadership to the Centre for Indigenous Student Services (CISS) team and supports the strategic direction of CISS.

The role is responsible for and leads the development, enhancement and implementation of culturally appropriate student support services and programs for both undergraduate and graduate Indigenous students and is accountable for improving and fostering a learning environment that results in student success. Student support programs include those that foster cultural awareness and knowledge, student development, academic and personal success, engagement, and transition from the time of admission through to graduation.

The role supports engagement and retention initiatives that reinforce the cultural narrative of inclusion, growth, innovation, ownership, and collaboration. The role conceives and manages the successful creation and execution of engagement events, with focus on Indigenous learners.

The role fosters partnerships within the Division of EPC and other relevant units of the University to leverage expertise, promising practices and resources for student programming, to contribute to seamless student service delivery across the campus. These collaborations will aim to maximize and ensure sustainability of services for Indigenous students and contribute to a robust community of practice approach for the University.

This role requires a service-focused professional who treats members of the community with respect, values their time, strives for personal best, and collaborates to improve service experiences for all. The role prioritizes Indigenous student success.

Education:
Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline with a focus on Indigenous studies, education, psychology, social work. Note: verification of degree(s)/credential(s) required.

Experience:
4 years related experience in a complex post-secondary or related environment.
Progressively responsible experience in Indigenous student affairs/services, student programming, academic success or recruitment and retention.
Experience acquired within a post-secondary student engagement, student success and Indigenous community development.
2 years of management or supervisory experience, including mentoring and developing diverse teams in inclusive and collaborative environments.
Must self-identify as Indigenous and be able to demonstrate their belonging to a recognized Indigenous community.
Demonstrated history of meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers.

Knowledge:
Knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and philosophies, Band funding protocols, and Indigenous community student support services
Experience and knowledge related to current trends, issues, legislation, regulation and best practices in areas of Indigenous education, Indigenization, philanthropy, human rights, reconciliation, equity and inclusion.
Informed and educated understanding of Indigenous history, policies, reconciliation framework - Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), international frameworks - United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Indigenous Justice frameworks -Missing Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Report
Awareness of student environments, campus systems and organizations, and the university's policies and procedures related to Indigenous engagement and education, student life and activities.
Through understanding of Indigenous ways of thinking, being, and knowing, and have connections to Indigenous communities through lived experience of an Indigenous world view, culture, traditions and values.
Knowledge of the theories, barriers, and best practices related to student development, engagement, and retention, particularly as they apply to supporting the holistic success of Indigenous learners in a post-secondary environment.
Proven knowledge of principles and practices in human resources, including people management, performance management, and team leadership.
Knowledge of financial and administrative management, including budgeting, resource allocation, and process improvement.
Knowledge of how to develop, implement, and evaluate strategic plans, programs, and events. This includes knowledge of designing and using key performance indicators (KPIs), assessment tools, and data analysis to measure efficacy and inform continuous improvement.

Skills:
Ability to utilize and exercise Indigenous teachings and philosophies as essential frameworks within CISS.
Effective interpersonal skills including diplomacy and sensitivity with proven ability to communicate and build rapport and credibility with diverse audiences, including Indigenous students, Elderly, community members, senior university leadership and external community
Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, respectfully, and effectively with diverse audiences.
Ability to effectively advocate for the needs of Indigenous students and the Centre, while diplomatically balancing policy requirements and organizational constraints.
Ability to build trust, foster collaboration, and maintain lasting, authentic relationships with Indigenous students, teams, and internal and external partners.
Ability to interact with others using a trauma-informed, respectful, and empathetic approach that acknowledges and honors diverse cultural perspectives and protocols.
High emotional intelligence and tact to navigate the complexities of a large university environment, build consensus, and advance initiatives across different departments.
Proven skill in facilitating difficult conversations, mediating disagreements with empathy and fairness, and resolving conflicts in a way that strengthens relationships and upholds cultural safety.
Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential situations with impeccable judgment, calmness, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills to strategize with the AVP on innovative models for achieving goals.
Effective skills in developing, implementing, and monitoring multi-faceted operational plans and work plans that align with strategic objectives.
Effective skill in drafting a wide range of materials, from strategic plans and annual reports to sensitive emails and compelling event promotions, ensuring all communication is culturally appropriate and aligned with the university's values.
Advanced public speaking and group facilitation skills to represent the Centre, lead workshops, and engage audiences in a meaningful and inclusive manner.
Effective skills in mentoring, motivating, and managing a team. delegating tasks effectively. and managing performance to achieve collective goals.
Effective organizational and logistical skills to concurrently plan, execute, and evaluate numerous programs, events, and projects from conception to completion, on time and within budget.
Proven ability to work independently and within a team environment.
Effective analytical skills to research, evaluate and be innovative with creative solutions.
Ability to apply student development theories and best practices.
Appreciation of academic values and a commitment to student development.
Proficient with MS Office Suite at the intermediate level (e.g. Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
Effective financial management skills to work with budgets and electronic financial systems.

Additional Notes:
Work is normally performed in a typical office work environment except during special events which may require outdoor and evening work.

• Compensation:

York's CPM Compensation Framework has a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment and depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award.Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York's CPM Compensation Program.

The University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including, but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities (racialized), Indigenous Peoples and persons of any gender identity and sexual orientation. York University is committed to a positive, supportive and inclusive environment.

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PLEASE NOTE: This job posting is for an existing vacancy. Applications must be received by 11:55 pm EST on the posted deadline date, if applicable. Posting deadlines can be updated, or modified, at any time based on hiring needs. Please refer to the York U Career Portal when confirming posting deadlines.