Chief Safety, Risk, and Employee Wellness Officer

at  Mount Royal University

Job Description:

QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Environmental Health and Safety, Risk Management, Public Health, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in safety, risk management, or related fields, ideally within a post-secondary education environment.
• Proven leadership and strategic planning experience with demonstrated ability to work across multiple departments and with external agencies.
• Strong knowledge of federal, provincial, and local regulations related to health, safety, and risk management.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with experience speaking on behalf of an institution.
• Certifications such as CRSP, CSP, ARM, or CHSO are an asset.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Mount Royal University (MRU) is seeking a highly experienced, strategic leader for the position of Chief Safety, Risk, and Employee Wellness Officer. This critical role is responsible for overseeing the safety, risk management, environmental health, employee wellness, and business continuity across the university. The Chief Safety, Risk, and Employee Wellness Officer will ensure that the MRU community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, enjoys a safe, healthy, and secure environment while also promoting overall wellness on campus.
The Chief Safety, Risk, and Employee Wellness Officer will serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on emerging risks, will work collaboratively with Deans and other senior stakeholders to act as the spokesperson for MRU on all matters related to campus safety, risk, and employee wellness. The successful candidate will have established relationships with external stakeholders, including but not limited to local and provincial authorities, regulatory and compliance bodies, insurance providers and risk management firms, and legal and crisis communication experts. We aim to have the successful candidate start in March/April 2025.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership and Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive strategic plan covering campus safety, risk management, employee wellness, and business continuity. Advise senior leadership on emerging risks and ensure alignment with institutional goals.
• Safety and Security Services: Lead the campus security team and ensure the development of emergency preparedness, response, and recovery policies. Serve as MRU’s Director of Emergency Operations and the primary liaison with law enforcement and emergency services.
• Risk Management: Oversee the institution’s risk management program, including assessing risks, mitigating potential issues, and managing MRU’s insurance portfolio. Ensure compliance with all federal and provincial safety regulations.
• Employee Wellness and Disability Management: Champion wellness programs to promote the mental and physical well-being of employees. Oversee disability claims and ensure accessible support for all members of the university community.
• Business Continuity and Crisis Management: Design and manage business continuity plans to ensure MRU’s preparedness for any significant disruptions. Lead training exercises to ensure readiness.
• Budget Management and Policy Development: Develop and manage departmental budgets to ensure that safety, risk, and wellness programs are adequately funded. Create and maintain policies that enhance safety and well-being on campus.