Indigenous Initiatives Coordinator Full Time NEW

Job Summary:
This position is an integral part of activities to advance the campus’ Truth and Reconciliation Commitments and Indigenous strategic priorities. This position works closely and under the direction of the Senior Advisor to the Deputy Vice Chancellor on Indigenous Affairs, this position liaises with the University, the Indigenous community and with various external agencies on behalf of various Indigenous initiatives. This position is responsible for the administrative, operational and project planning requirements of Indigenous initiatives. This position is situated in a demanding environment which requires the highest level of tact, discretion and sensitivity with a particular focus on Indigenous community engagement. This position is expected to establish deep understanding and knowledge of Indigenous initiatives, university policies and procedures, and related organizational protocols. This position is expected to apply an extensive understanding of the objectives and priorities of Indigenous initiatives to coordinate and complete a variety of projects under this mandate.

Organizational Status:
This position reports directly to the Senior Advisor to the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Principal on Indigenous Affairs.

Work Performed:
– Manages various projects and parts of projects s which includes: identification, implementation, review and management of all aspects of the project cycle including coordinating activities of project teams, analyzing and evaluating outcomes and providing advice on improvements, as well as day-to-day operational aspects.
– In collaboration with the Sr. Advisor, manages individual project plans, monitors scope, schedule, budget and other key aspects to ensure successful project delivery.
– Ensures the Sr. Advisor is kept abreast on new developments that are related to various projects and meetings.
– Collaborates and consults with other Indigenous initiatives across campus and Indigenous communities and partners following their unique protocols, and in particular with the Syilx Okanagan Nation communities.
– Writes/initiates drafts of confidential communications. These communications will deal with sensitive matters and must be prepared using extreme diplomacy.
– Researching and writing formal reports
– Writes and coordinates newsletter content for Indigenous community partners.
– Responsible for a variety of projects to ensure the efficient administration, organization and operation for the Senior Advisor.
– Liaises with various portfolios across the Okanagan campus to identify and collaborate on implementation of Indigenous strategic goals.
– Works with faculty members, staff, the Indigenous community and others in a professional manner.
– Provides ongoing administrative support in key areas of Indigenous initiatives, including human resources, finance, events, and logistics.
– Maintain inventory and contact list of Indigenous community partners.
– Write, manage and maintain Indigenous initiatives webpage in collaboration with campus and community partners.
– Coordinate special events.
– Performs other related duties in keeping with the qualifications and requirements of the role.

Consequence of Error/Judgement:
This position requires a sophisticated level of judgment, tact, discretion and initiative. Errors in judgment with the internal or external stakeholders could have negative impact on the University, resulting in legal suits, poor public relations, financial costs or loss of credibility. Work must often meet tight deadlines and requires the incumbent to perform well under pressure. This position will be expected to respond well to unexpected circumstances and exercise good independent judgment. Must demonstrate exceptional public relations and interpersonal skills in dealing with the high-profile members of Indigenous community, the university, staff and faculty, senior administrators and member of the government. Inappropriate or errant communication of sensitive issues could have a serious impact and have legal implications.

Supervision Received:
– Works independently under the direction of the Senior Advisor to the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Principal on Indigenous Affairs.

Supervision Given:
– May supervise temporary staff or students.

Minimum Qualifications:
Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline. Minimum of two years of related experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
– Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.
– Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Preferred Qualifications:
– Experience providing executive level support.
– Experience working with individuals at senior levels.
– Experience in managing projects that involve a variety of stakeholders.
– Knowledge of University policies, procedures, governance and administrative systems preferred.
– Ability to effectively facilitate groups to achieve appropriate outcomes.
– Strong organizational, analytical, problem-solving and planning skills.
– Ability to work independently and cooperatively both within the UBC community and with external stakeholders.
– Proficient in the use of grammar, spelling, punctuation and professional terminology.
– Proven ability to communicate professionally and tactfully, both orally and in writing.
– Ability to prioritize and work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines.
– Ability to listen actively and attentively, and obtain clarification as required.
– Ability to determine the nature and urgency of inquiries and issues, and triage appropriately.
– Ability to locate required information using a variety of methods e.g., online information sources, manuals, expert sources.

This position must demonstrate a high degree of professionalism and possess excellent public relations and interpersonal skills in dealing with a diverse range of offices and organizations.

At UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.