Executive Director

The University of Calgary is one of Canada’s top comprehensive research intensive universities, with over 34,000 undergraduate and graduate students in 14 faculties, over 1,800 academic staff, and over 3,200 non-academic staff across 5 campuses.  

The Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) of the University of Calgary serves approximately 6,500 student members enrolled in graduate programs.  Governed by UofC graduate students with an annual budget of $4 to 5 million dollars, the GSA is charged with the social, academic and practical well-being and growth of graduate students on campus. Driven by the Peer Beyond strategic plan, the GSA strives to be a recognized leader in graduate representation in Canada.  The GSA oversees and promotes workshops, special events, the provision of financial aid and support as well as the facilitation of career-based growth and development for graduate students as they progress through their university programs.  In addition, the GSA serves academically employed graduate students as the official bargaining agent.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is responsible to provide guidance and operational leadership for the GSA organization including the Last Defence Lounge on campus.  The Executive Director leads a dynamic team of professionals who are committed to offering valued services and programs that support and empower our graduate students.  This exciting broad based role encompasses strategic planning, budgetary management, operational responsibilities, advocacy and the opportunity to drive a culture built on fiscal sustainability, social engagement and effective representation.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, and a collaborative and inspirational leader who demonstrates a commitment to professional development and lifelong learning.  The successful candidate will have earned an undergraduate degree along with their relevant work experience; a master’s or other professional degree is considered an asset.  Demonstrated financial and business acumen is coupled with a service orientation and experience leading through change management.  Previous experience may include leading teams in the not-for-profit sector, customer service experience in a hospitality environment, working with a student body or other member based organization and/or broader business experience.  The strength of communication and relationship building skills will enable the Executive Director to effectively represent the GSA on campus, regionally and nationally.

Recently ranked the 4th most liveable city in the world by The Economist, and possessing one of the youngest populations of major cities in Canada, Calgary is home world-class attractions, sporting amenities and public infrastructure that support healthy lifestyles. Calgary is a city of leaders—in business, community, philanthropy and volunteerism with the highest concentration of entrepreneurs and Canadian head offices in Canada.  Situated in the sunny foothills of Canada's majestic Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a major urban centre surrounded by an area of profound beauty with an unspoiled, resource-rich natural environment. 

The Graduate Students’ Association of the University of Calgary welcomes diversity and encourages applications from all qualified peoples, including persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and Indigenous persons.

To explore this opportunity contact Janet Soles and Associates at jsoles@jssearch.ca or forward your CV and related documents to gsa@jssearch.ca.