Job Description

Position Title: Manager, Governance and Strategic Initiatives
Department: Office of the President
Position Type: Full-time Continuing
Classification: MPE Band F
Salary Range: $82,836 to $101,185 (based on 37.5 hours per week)
Posting Date: July 22, 2026
Closing Date: August 5, 2026, at 1:00 PM AST

Reporting to the Executive Director, Office of the President, and accountable to the President and Vice-Chancellor and the Chair of the Board of Governors, this dual role provides leadership in Board governance and advancing institutional priorities. A strong emphasis is placed on supporting the University’s strategic priorities and initiatives.

Serving as the Secretary to the StFX University Board of Governors, the incumbent is responsible for the organization and administration of Board and governance records, including governance compliance matters.

In accordance with StFX’s University Act, University By-laws, institutional policies and practices, and other legislation, the incumbent supports and guides the governance and deliberative processes of the university Board. They will work closely with senior leaders to ensure continuity and alignment between the Board of Governors, its committees, and major institutional priorities, including fundraising and advancement initiatives. The incumbent coordinates matters related to board governance for the Board of Governors and its committees, consulting with relevant stakeholders to ensure the accurate and impartial interpretation and application of governance policies, procedures, and practices.

The incumbent is also responsible for supporting high-priority institutional initiatives. This includes fostering relationships across campus and with external partners, supporting the Office of the President with key projects, and projects of strategic importance to the university, e.g. capital campaign. The role collaborates with leadership to monitor progress, identify opportunities, and help ensure successful outcomes aligned with institutional goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and governance support for the Board of Governors and select Board Committees, including assisting with new member Board orientation, managing information requests, preparing agendas and minutes, and ensuring follow-up on action items.
• Support the Chair of the Board of Governors and all Board Committee Chairs in organizing and administering all aspects of Board duties and responsibilities.
• Lead the development and review of policies and procedures related to Board governance, ensuring compliance with relevant legal frameworks.
• Provide governance-focused support in the development and maintenance of policies and procedures to ensure effective Board and committee operations.
• Ensure the provision of expert advice to the Board Chair and the President on all matters of University Governance, identifying and recommending practical solutions aligned with University strategy and core values.
• Coordinate, lead, and support the planning and implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with the University's priorities and institutional objectives.
• Support the use of data and reporting to inform decision-making, track progress, and communicate outcomes related to institutional strategic priorities and the university’s capital campaign.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree, JD/LLB, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in governance, institutional administration, or related roles; experience supporting communication initiatives is an asset.
• Experience in policy development and interpretation, with a strong understanding of relevant legal and governance frameworks.
• Experience coordinating complex, institution-wide initiatives, preferably including capital campaigns, fundraising, or stakeholder engagement efforts.
• Ability to foster and maintain strong relationships with internal and external partners, including donors, alumni, and community stakeholders.
• Proven ability to manage projects, build consensus, and support senior leadership in achieving institutional priorities.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• This position requires a flexible work week during peak periods, particularly in support of Board and campaign-related activities.
• Very strong written and oral communication skills and interpersonal skills.

To apply for this opportunity, click the " Quick Apply" button and upload your cover letter and resume as a single combined PDF document (maximum 6 MB). Only one file can be uploaded per application.

StFX is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People.

Our institution is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility. We encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including Indigenous persons (especially Mi’kmaq), racialized persons (especially African Nova Scotians), persons with disabilities, those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ and any others who would contribute to the diversity of our community. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

We are also committed to the elimination of barriers to participation for persons with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact People and Culture at hr@stfx.ca or 902-867-5038.

About St. Francis Xavier University

Established in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is consistently recognized as one of the best universities in Canada. StFX exceeds the needs of today’s undergraduates by providing the very best academic experience -- outstanding teaching, exceptional hands-on research opportunities, and global exchanges -- all within Canada’s most vibrant and inspiring residential campus. Here, the focus is on the academic and personal development of every student, making community and social engagement a large part of the learning experience. Our students are academically strong and highly engaged in every aspect of life, determined to make a positive impact on the world.

In 2026, Maclean's annual university rankings put StFX #1 for reputation across Canada in the primarily undergraduate category. For more, visit www.stfx.ca

About Antigonish, Nova Scotia

The beautiful and historic town of Antigonish is located within the northeastern corner of Nova Scotia. Only a 15-minute drive from the ocean and a two-hour drive to major urban centres, Antigonish is a family-friendly community with a diverse and growing population and provides access to excellent education at all levels. The town is surrounded by rolling countryside and beautiful beaches and is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, sports and other active lifestyle activities. Antigonish supports a vibrant culture in the arts with music, performing arts, visual arts and crafts, and fabulous festivals happening throughout the year. For more information visit www.townofantigonish.ca or www.visitantigonish.ca