Department Manager

About us:

The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA) is a nationally supported research institute and a non-profit corporation (CITA Inc.) Our mission is to foster interaction within the Canadian astrophysics community and to serve as an international centre of excellence for theoretical studies in astrophysics. We educate and develop the next generation of scientific leaders with national postdoctoral fellowships as well as postdoctoral and senior research associate fellowships, and through the supervision of undergraduate and graduate students. We are devoted to studying the origin and evolution of the universe and the many phenomena revealed by modern astronomy. 

Your Opportunity:

Reporting to the Director, the Department Manager brings the strategic, HR managerial, operation and financial leadership, direction and oversight in order to contribute to and ensure the success of the Department. This involves developing short and long-term strategic initiatives and processes in order to improve the overall administration of the Department. In support of the Department’s academic mission and administrative activities, the incumbent provides executive research services to the Director by gathering and analyzing information, statistics and data and making recommendations. The Department Manager provides advice and guidance to the Director on all budgetary matters, assisting in the formulation of sound financial policies, and practices, and implementing them in all aspects of the administration of the Department’s financial resources.

Works closely with the Director in planning and establishing administrative policies and procedures to support the operational and research needs of the Department. Responsible for the implementation of these policies in the organization and daily management of the Department’s administrative offices. The Department Manager will develop and lead projects and strategic initiatives, as well as, provide advice and make recommendations to inform a wide variety of operational issues to ensure best practices are employed by the Department.

The Department Manager manages and motivates administrative staff members and manages functions related to human resource management including assigning of work, hiring, performance management, and professional development of staff. Participates in the resolution of grievances from CUPE 3902 Unit 1, Unit 3 and Unit 5 and USW unions and works to resolve informal complaints from staff in consultation with Human Resources. Ensures that administrative practices relating to both administrative and academic staff conform to the University’s policies and guidelines.

The Department Manager oversees and coordinates the development and implementation of logistics associated with the Department’s various special projects, outreach initiatives and events. Leads the development of a strategic communication and outreach plan, and coordinates the promotion of the Department to raise the profile and awareness of the Department.

Qualifications Required:

EDUCATION:

• University degree in business, economics, and/or financial management or an acceptable equivalent combination of education and experience.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum 5 years’ related and progressive experience in financial management and administration in a similar environment. 
• Experience building and developing effective administrative systems and processes.
• Experience working with and interpreting policies and procedures pertaining to budget, finance, human resources, and academic administration.  
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budget management and forecasting.
• Experience leading, supervising and motivating staff members.
• Experience supervising staff in a unionized environment is an asset.
• Demonstrated success in the design and implementation of new initiatives and processes.

SKILLS:

• Advanced computer skills in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and internet.
• Demonstrated experience with FIS and HRIS, or similar related systems.
• Excellent administrative, analytical and financial skills with ability to interpret and apply information and provide financial analysis.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.