Assistant Director, Indigenous Initiatives

About us:

The University of Toronto Scarborough is a place of energy, enthusiasm and passion. Our commitment to inclusive excellence attracts the brightest learners, scholars and employees from around the globe. Our success has been made possible by the opportunity given to us by Indigenous hosts to operate on their territory, and we cherish our continuing partnerships with these communities. The University of Toronto Scarborough is an exciting campus with unlimited potential. Join us on our journey.

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives and Indigenous House at UTSC works to mobilize University of Toronto’s commitments to The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, 2015, as outlined in Answering the Call – Wecheehetowin. Following the report, the Office guides the University of Toronto Scarborough's efforts in amplifying Indigenous voices and Indigenous place keeping on campus. 

This search aligns with the University’s commitment to strategically and proactively promote diversity among our community members (Statement on Equity, Diversity & Excellence). Recognizing that Black, Indigenous, and other Racialized communities have experienced inequities that have developed historically and are ongoing, we strongly welcome and encourage candidates from those communities to apply.

Your opportunity:

The Assistant Director, Indigenous Initiatives plays a vital role in developing and advancing strategic initiatives related to Indigenization at the University of Toronto Scarborough campus. The incumbent reports directly to the Director, Indigenous Initiatives and Indigenous House.

Under the supervision of the Director, Indigenous Initiatives and Indigenous House, the Assistant Director, Indigenous Initiatives is responsible for developing, implementing and coordinating Indigenous initiatives that support UTSC’s vision, strategic priorities, and objectives that develop and enhance Indigenous presence, developing and advancing supports and programming; for providing advice on related matters; fostering relationships and building partnerships with appropriate communities and organizations through outreach and engagement initiatives; developing and implementing activities and projects that advance UTSC’s commitments as laid out in relevant UTSC/U of T Plans, policies, guidelines, and reports, including Answering the Call – Wecheehetowin: Report of the Steering Committee for the University of Toronto’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

The incumbent provides direct support to the Director in advancing the academic and administrative initiatives that promote Indigenous initiatives that have cross-campus, tri-campus and community impact. The incumbent will provide a high level of support on Indigenous initiatives, serve as the main point of contact for addressing and/or directing inquiries. The incumbent will also ensure that deadlines and schedules are met; participate in the coordination of any correspondence; and organize meetings.

The position will involve undertaking research on a wide variety of issues and topics; managing projects; consulting and interacting with faculty, staff, students, Indigenous communities and organizations; providing advice to UTSC units; following up on decisions by appropriate bodies; implementing and tracking the development and/or enhancements of Indigenous initiatives, programs and supports.

As the role continues to evolve, the incumbent must demonstrate the ability to adapt to shifting priorities and organizational needs. The position requires a collaborative approach to working in a complex, dynamic and fast-paced environment, with a willingness to assume additional responsibilities and undertake other duties as assigned by the Director. The role requires a high degree of sensitivity, responsiveness and a need to maintain absolute confidentiality.

Preference will be given to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous. Recognizing that there are a variety of terms that potential candidates may use to self-identify, the University uses the term “Indigenous” in this search, which forms part of the U of T Responses to Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, to encompass the people of Turtle Island, including those who identify as First nations, Metis, Inuk (Inuit), Alaska Native, Native American, and Native Hawaiian people.

Essential Qualifications:

EDUCATION: 

• University degree required, professional or post graduate degree (Master's or Ph.D.) an asset, or equivalent in education and experience. 

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 5 years’ related experience working within Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) communities/agencies.
• Experience in working with complex issues related to equity, diversity, and inclusion as they relate to the student experience and the workplace is required.
• Experience working with Knowledge Keepers, students, faculty, and staff, and an appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the University’s community.
• Experience working within a post-secondary context is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in creating and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. 

SKILLS:

• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office (must be able to set up templates and macros in Word and Excel, set up Excel spreadsheets and graphics, and prepare sophisticated PowerPoint presentations).
• Internet, Acrobat, scheduling software and familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint an asset. 

OTHER:

• Highly developed oral and written communication, research analytical, relationship management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated collaborative approach to problem solving.
• Demonstrated ability to interact and collaborate with individuals at all levels within the University as well as externally, including students, staff, faculty and community partners.
• High degree of political acuity and judgment; ability to deal with senior University Officers in a manner which facilitates cooperation and consensus building; ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team with a high degree of initiative, discretion, and tact; ability to work under pressure; superior organizational skills in planning, project management and task coordination; flexibility and problem solver orientation; and strong leadership capabilities.
• Must embrace diversity and inclusion as an integral component of a quality university experience.
• Ability to produce detailed and comprehensive reports from a large volume of complex information.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous educational issues, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report and other resources pertaining to Indigenous contexts (e.g. Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples [RCAP]).
• Demonstrated relationships with services and agencies within Indigenous communities and/or urban centres and governments.
• Competence in an Indigenous language a definite asset.
• Must show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment.

NOTES:

• This role is currently eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, pursuant to University policies and guidelines, including but not limited to the University of Toronto's Alternative Work Arrangements Guideline.
• Please note that short-listed candidates may be asked to participate in an Indigenous substantiation process. https://indigenous.utoronto.ca/initiatives-protocols/indigenous-substantiation/.