This position will be posted until filled

Lakehead University is seeking a strategic and visionary Director, Career Services & Co-op to provide leadership, planning, and operational oversight for a vital department within Student Affairs. The portfolio includes overall accountability for career advising and co-curricular programming connected to the career development of current students, as well as accountability for co-operative program administration, working with a team on effective co-op student preparation, advising and job development. An ambassador for Lakehead in the community, the Director creates and executes a robust employer relations strategy, and drives job development for current students and graduates via extensive partnership development and supporting excellent employment outcomes, as well as supporting the industry-connected and community-facing elements of the University’s strategic plan.

By integrating career-connected experiences into the student lifecycle, the Director plays a critical role in supporting institutional retention, graduation rates, and a sense of belonging for all students.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership in the development and implementation of a comprehensive set of career and employer services across our locations that align with the University’s Strategic Plan and Strategic Enrolment Management (SEM) framework.

Lead the development and implementation of a targeted Employer Relations Strategy to engage industry partners, generate revenue, and increase work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for students.

Manage a multi-tiered team, including hiring, coaching, performance management, and fostering a high-performing professional culture.

Work closely with Deans,



Chairs, and Faculty to align departmental services with academic goals, share industry feedback on in-demand skills, and support the expansion of co-op programs.

Oversee the implementation of career education initiatives and co-op services, ensuring they meet the needs of a diverse student population and achieve strong graduate employment KPIs.

Qualifications

5 to 7 years of leadership experience in a complex university career services or employer relations role, with a track record of success in team leadership and community partnership development.

Strong understanding of employer relations, employment readiness, application of career development theory within higher education, and Co-op best practices / high impact practices in WIL-pedagogy.

Proven ability to develop a compelling vision, engage stakeholders at all levels, and lead successful organizational change.

Strong skills in budget development, financial analysis, and the use of data to inform decision-making.

Advanced skills in multi-year operational budget design, complex resource allocation, and the strict governance of student fees and external grants.

Exceptional interpersonal skills capable of building relationships across the university, and with industry and community partners.

A demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity,



inclusion, and accessibility, with the ability to engage diverse student groups and create inclusive programming.

Superior skills in listening, public speaking, and writing, with the ability to present complex topics to various groups, including senior administration and media.

Familiarity with Canadian employment legislation, workplace safety, and federal/provincial programs guiding talent acquisition.

Lakehead University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals including women, racialized persons, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, and other equity-seeking groups. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. This is in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements.

Lakehead University has a goal to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as measured by increasing representation of underrepresented groups among applicants, candidates, and hires. Experience working with Indigenous or racialized communities, and/or members of other equity-deserving groups, is a strong asset. A lived experience or worked experience of any of these issues is preferred.

We appreciate your interest; Lakehead University is committed to supporting an accessible setting.

Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources at (807) 343-8010 ext. 8334 or [email protected] to make appropriate arrangements.

$89,741.97 - $112,176.85 Band 9 (banding under review)

#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Director, Career Services & Co-op (Winnipeg)
🏢 Lakehead University
📍 Winnipeg