Job Description / Duties

The Manager, Student Engagement is responsible for leading the strategic development and evaluation of a broad framework of student engagement programs that foster student learning, success and strong student communities through peer mentoring; meaningful orientation and transition experiences; and the establishment of a climate that supports and facilitates student-led projects and initiatives.

Reporting to the Director of the Centre for Student Involvement & Careers, The Manager, Student Engagement supervises a dedicated team of professional staff, Front Desk staff, student workers, interns and volunteers that work collaboratively within the Centre and University-wide to support student success through central and distributed programming. The incumbent will provide leadership undergraduate student success programs, including the University’s orientation and first year experience programs, peer mentoring, and commuter student success. The manager is responsible for the full cycle of program development including the theoretical and strategic planning, program design, implementation, and assessment to support student success and career building experiences to serve graduates as they enter communities and workplaces.

The scope of responsibilities includes:

• Works in close partnership with the Director to develop a comprehensive strategy for successful University orientations and to enrich student learning and community life. Considers the full range of student experiences, including domestic and international, graduate and undergraduate, and discipline-specific needs.
• Works with the Director in the development and assessment of the strategic goals of the unit.
• Overseeing the stewardship and cultivation of programs and spaces that promote and strengthen student communities; developing close partnerships with other departments, and engaging the Alma Mater Society (AMS) and Graduate Student Society (GSS) and students in initiatives.
• Leading the development of community celebrations and recognition of student leaders and further developing ways to recognize participation in student life and career building experiences.
• Managing mentoring programs and developing a community of practice to support the multiple mentoring opportunities across UBC.
• Collaborating as part of a cross-functional team with the Academic Advisory units and Student Development and Services to support major academic milestones.
• Leading student community development work including identifying community issues and needs; evaluating and monitoring programs; developing new student community based programs; and acting as a trainer and facilitator for staff, volunteers, programs and services.
• Cultivating and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders including University departments and Faculties; community professionals & community groups; and student groups and clubs.
• Researching funding opportunities; developing relationships with potential donors and agencies; and writing proposals and grants to secure funding for the Centre’s programs, services and initiatives.

Qualifications / Required Skills

Your qualifications include an undergraduate degree in social sciences, humanities, education, community development or a related discipline plus six years of professional experience. A Master’s degree is preferred as is prior experience in higher education. Experience designing, delivering and evaluating complex programs using an evidence based practice is required. Experience with new student orientation or equivalent learning initiatives and/or community development is an asset.

The skills, capabilities and attributes to fulfill this role include:
• Ability to effectively delegate, lead, motivate, supervise, train and coach staff.
• Deep and masterful knowledge of learning pedagogy and practice.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse communities and promote inclusion.
• Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills.
• Ability to develop strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills in English. Further language abilities are assets.
• Demonstrated ability to apply and evaluate literature, research, institutional data, and theoretical frameworks in order to establish, manage, and transform evidence-based programs and services.
• Outstanding developmental student advising skills along with demonstrated success in teaching and developing other professional staff to advise students.
• Ability to manage the complexity inherent in a multi-faceted work environment focussed on broad outcomes for students.
• A dedicated educator with the ability to see oneself as a continuous learner.
• Knowledgeable about current trends in higher education, student learning, Canadian and international labour markets, and the employability of graduates.

Additional Information

UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.

Salary: $65,656.00 - $78,819.00 (Annual)

Contact Information

Please submit a resume and cover letter by May 7, 2013 at UBC e-Recruit www.hr.ubc.ca/careers. The full role description is posted on the site. UBC provides competitive salaries, health benefits, pension plan, and professional development opportunities. Review “What we Offer” on the Career site for further details.

Questions, expressions of interest, or applications after May 7 can be directed to Kim Kiloh, Director, and Centre for Student Involvement & Careers, kim.kiloh@ubc.ca; phone 604.822.6473.

Employer Profile

The University of British Columbia, one of the world's best universities, is known for its academic excellence, top caliber students, and international reputation for excellence in advanced research and learning. The Centre for Student Involvement and Careers is a hub that facilitates and enhances student learning through career building enriched educational experiences. Through orientation and peer mentoring, the Centre supports new students to become successful university learners, prepared to achieve their personal and career goals. It is a central point for all graduate and undergraduate students and employers on the UBC Vancouver campus to meet, connect, network, and build relationships; as well as to research and explore career options. The Centre provides all UBC students with access and connection to workplace learning, mentoring, volunteer and leadership opportunities; and offers career and employment related services to students, academic departments, employers, parents, and alumni.