**Location -**This role is in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Under the strategic direction of the Assistant Dean, First Nation, Métis and Inuit students, onîkânîw (leader) provides strategic and visionary leadership for the opening and operation of a new three-level First Peoples’ House (FPH), supported by a vast and multifaceted budget that reflects strong financial stewardship and literacy. Recognized as a strong, culturally grounded model of student support for more than 2,500 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students, the onîkânîw is responsible for a team of staff that will continue to guide the direction of FPH. They ensure the space functions as a dynamic, welcoming environment that fosters holistic programming, student support, connection, and community for FNMI students on campus.

Student Success and Experience (formerly Office of the Dean of Students) holds student support at the heart of everything we do. We provide services focused on student well-being and flourishing both in the classroom and beyond. We offer a wide range of services, including career guidance, health and wellness resources, academic support, and assistance for students facing unexpected challenges or personal difficulties. We also work closely with faculty and staff across campus to ensure students receive coordinated support when they need it most.unexpected challenges or personal difficulties. We also work closely with faculty and staff across campus to ensure students receive coordinated support when they need it most.

• Provide strategic leadership for the strategic planning, objectives, policies, and procedures to address complex challenges using a culturally informed, holistic approach for the future growth of the First Peoples’ House (FPH).

• Supports the development of strategic plans, objectives, policies, and procedures to address complex challenges using a culturally informed, holistic approach. Leads a diverse team delivering student supports, programming, and services for FNMI students.

• Is patient and understands the importance of nurturing ongoing meaningful relationships with Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers.

• Foster a culturally grounded, welcoming environment that supports wellbeing, connection, and community.

• Ensure effective stewardship of a significant budget, demonstrating strong financial literacy and accountability.

• Demonstrates an understanding of wahkohtowin (kinship), recognizing our interconnectedness and the importance of maintaining respectful relationships with one another.

• Bachelor's Degree required, Master’s degree preferred, in Education, Native Studies, Social Work, Public Health, Human Ecology, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and senior-level experience will be considered.

• Is First Nations, Metis or Inuit (bona fide occupational requirements).

• 5–7 years of progressive demonstrated leadership in leading teams (7+ staff), programs, and services in Post-Secondary Institutions, FNMI initiatives, or a related field, that support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit (FNMI) students.

• Strong understanding of wahkohtowin (kinship), and the ability to apply these principles in leadership and relationship-building.

• 5–7 years of experience managing and stewarding significant budgets, demonstrating strong financial literacy, accountability, and strategic resource allocation.

• Proven ability to develop and implement strategic plans, policies, and procedures using a culturally informed, holistic approach.

• Experience building and maintaining respectful, meaningful relationships with Elders, Traditional Knowledge Keepers, and FNMI communities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences including students, community members, and partners.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter.

This role requires confirmation of First Nation, Métis or Inuit membership or citizenship. Selected applicants will be asked for documentation prior to attending an interview.

This position has a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $72,250 to $120,423.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule F of the collective agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.