Director of Faculty Development, College of Health Sciences

at  University of Alberta

Department College of Health Sciences - Dean’s Office
Posted date January 14, 2025
Closing date February 7, 2025
Position Type Full Time - Operating Funded

THE OPPORTUNITY

The University of Alberta is seeking a dynamic experienced leader for the role of Director of Faculty Development, College of Health Sciences. With a track record in closing transformational-level philanthropic support, the successful candidate will be a development expert who has held progressively senior leadership roles within complex multi-stakeholder environments.
The College of Health Sciences (CHS) is comprised of the University of Alberta’s health sciences faculties and schools, enabling exceptional interdisciplinary health science research and teaching that advances the full spectrum of human health and wellness in individuals and communities. This senior-level position is part of the Development and Alumni Relations leadership team as well as the CHS Dean’s leadership team.
Reporting to the Associate Vice-President of Development & Alumni Relations (AVP), and in partnership with Faculty Deans, the Director is responsible for leading the continued growth of fundraising within the faculties of the College of Health Sciences, maximizing development activity and cultivating exceptional donor experiences. In consultation with Deans and Assistant Deans (Development), the Director will oversee the planning and development of fundraising priorities and projects, including the development of prospect pipelines to support them. In 2024, $150 million was raised in support of research, programs, student supports, and facilities with $55 million of that raised and allocated to CHS faculties.
The Director will demonstrate exemplary team leadership abilities with a strong commitment to inspire, support, coach and empower an existing team of high-performance advancement professionals to new heights of achievement.
With an understanding of the opportunities for fundraising within the College of Health Sciences, the Director will work closely with the AVP Development & Alumni Relations, Deans, and Assistant Deans (Development) in the CHS faculties to foster and enhance relationships within and outside of the University to expand fundraising results. The Director will hold an active donor portfolio, managing complex relationships with multi-interest stakeholders. In addition, this position serves as a key advisor on significant and transformational gift strategies, including leading strategy and participating in engagement-related visits and events with the Vice-President External Relations, AVP Development & Alumni Relations, Deans, and other senior officers as appropriate.
The successful candidate will demonstrate an appreciation of academic culture and the ability to collaborate effectively and respectfully with scholars, scientists, researchers, and staff, and will have a deep commitment to ensuring philanthropy contributes to the University’s teaching and research mission, including an outstanding experience for its students.
In accordance with the Handbook of Employment for Management and Professional Staff (Excluded), this full-time continuing position offers a comprehensive benefits package that can be viewed on our Benefits Overview page and an annual salary range which will be commensurate with qualifications.

OFFICE OF EDUCATION

The Office of Education in the College of Health Sciences works collaboratively with Faculties to develop, enhance and amplify interdisciplinary learning opportunities for Health Sciences students. The development of interdisciplinary learning opportunities will draw on the expertise of faculty and staff across the College. It is designed to benefit and enhance the learning opportunities for students and enhance the academic experience through the provision of common administrative tasks and to facilitate and promote interdisciplinary work in the College of Health Sciences.

HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION + RESEARCH COMMONS (HSERC)

The Health Sciences Education and Research Commons (HSERC) is both an academic and a physical space where interprofessional education curriculum is researched, developed, evaluated, and delivered.
Our suite of specialized simulation learning environments supports a range of team-based learning activities and interdisciplinary research. We also house a secure clinical exam space used for a variety of practical exams.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES

• Fundraising experience will include direct involvement in securing and stewarding complex and transformative gifts (7-figure level or more) as well as demonstrated extensive knowledge about all aspects of the donor cycle and across all giving vehicles.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, including proven broad and substantive senior leadership experience in leading development programs.
• A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible leadership experience with a significant portion in direct management of programs, staff and budget in a complex organization.
• Experience in fundraising for health education and research-related priorities and initiatives is strongly preferred.
• An understanding of the research enterprise with a large academic institution.
• Proven experience successfully leading and coaching a team of development professionals.
• Demonstrated ability to strengthen relationships with faculty, staff, and alumni to establish a culture of philanthropy and encourage a cooperative approach to meeting engagement and revenue goals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills as well as skilled decision-making, including making decisions with the appropriate level of consultation and transparency expected in an academic institution.
• Able to employ integrity, diplomacy, discretion and sound judgment while navigating sensitive or highly confidential issues.
• An Undergraduate degree at minimum; a Graduate degree will be considered a strong asset.

WORK LOCATION AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Staff are currently working within a hybrid model.
• Office location for this role is at the Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue NW, Edmonton.
• This position has an expectation to be in the office on average three days per week, and/or as required by project responsibilities.
• Travel to meet with donors is also required. While this will be primarily in the Greater Edmonton Area and occasionally in other Alberta regions, the Director, Faculty Development will also be building relationships with donors across Canada and internationally.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle required.
• Valid passport for international travel is required.

LIVING IN EDMONTON

With a population of over one million residents, Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, is a vibrant and growing metropolis that offers an exceptional quality of life.
Known as “The Gateway to the North,” Edmonton boasts a strong and diverse economy, providing ample employment opportunities across various sectors, including energy, technology, healthcare, and education. The city’s strategic location as a hub for major industries ensures a dynamic job market with plenty of opportunities for career advancement.
One of Edmonton’s standout features is its affordability, particularly in housing. Compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Edmonton offers significantly lower real estate prices and rental costs, allowing newcomers to enjoy a higher standard of living without the financial strain. This affordability extends to everyday living expenses, making it easier for families and individuals to thrive. Furthermore, the city’s well-developed infrastructure and efficient public transit system make commuting convenient and stress-free.
Edmonton is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene, which contributes to a rich and inclusive community atmosphere. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the world-famous Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, which is North America’s largest and oldest fringe festival. Residents enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, from music and theatre to culinary delights and art galleries, ensuring there is always something to do or explore. In addition, the city houses Canada’s largest sports and entertainment district and one of the world’s biggest malls.
Nature enthusiasts will find Edmonton particularly appealing due to its abundant green spaces and proximity to stunning natural landscapes. The North Saskatchewan River Valley, the largest urban park in Canada, offers over 160 kilometres of trails for hiking, biking, and winter sports.
The city’s commitment to maintaining its parks and recreational areas ensures that residents can easily escape into nature without leaving the urban environment. Additionally, Edmonton’s location provides easy access to the majestic Rocky Mountains, perfect for weekend getaways filled with skiing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.
Edmonton is a family-friendly city with excellent educational institutions and healthcare facilities. The combination of strong community support, safety, and abundant recreational activities makes Edmonton an ideal place to raise a family while pursuing a fulfilling career. Whether you are seeking professional growth, a balanced lifestyle, or a welcoming community, Edmonton has something to offer everyone.