Program Manager, Digital Initiatives at Georgian College

Georgian is more than just an employer – we're a community. With seven campuses located across Central Ontario, Georgian College offers rewarding employment opportunities in academics, administration, research, and more. We take pride in working alongside a dynamic team of student-focused educators, dedicated supporters, and passionate advocates. Together, we can advance our mission to inspire innovation, transform lives, and connect communities through the power of education.

Our exciting work environment offers the opportunity to learn and grow, while collaborating in a team-oriented culture that promotes equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. Together, we deliver unrivaled experiences for our students, employees and the communities we serve. Read our 2025-2030 strategic plan.

If you share our energy and passion, please consider joining Team Georgian.

Georgian College’s Department of Research and Innovation (R&I) connects industry and community partners with faculty, students, and expertise to address real-world challenges through applied research. Through its three main themes including Industrial Simulation and Prototyping, Digital Initiatives and Thriving Communities, R&I fosters innovation, technology adoption, and commercialization, helping partners enhance competitiveness while providing students with meaningful experiential learning opportunities.

Position Overview:

We’re seeking a dedicated research focused professional who will play a critical role in ensuring that Digital Initiatives program’s needs are met. The manager is responsible for the efficient and effective management and operations of applied research and innovation activities conducted with internal and external partners (Researchers, industry, community, etc.) in Digital Initiatives Program. This includes: managing financial records including budget planning and preparation, risk identification / mitigation, business case development, project planning and management, supervision of research project staff, outreach to businesses and partners, liaison with faculty, staff, students and partners for project development, proposal development, preparation of grant applications, project planning and execution, oversight of project progress, quality assurance, and client and supplier relationship management.
If you are passionate about Research Innovation and digital initiatives and thrive in a collaborative inclusive environment, this the role for you.

Job Details:

Job posting date: September 5, 2025
Department: Research and Innovation 
Location: Barrie Campus – Hybrid work environment  
Employment Type:  Full Time Administrative 
Salary Range: $85,529-$106,911

Key Responsibilities:  

•    Plans, develops and prepares, executes annual budgets across the Digital Initiatives program
•    Identifies and prepares grant submissions for project-specific funding
•    Evaluates the program’s financial risks, prepares financial forecasts, and develops strategies to reduce and/or mitigate risks
•    Analyzes monthly budget results, monitors variance, identifies trends, and recommends actions for business decision
•    Provide financial management of individual projects, which includes monitoring salary and budget allocations
•    Manages the program’s purchasing 
•    Develops, monitors and implements program’s processes to ensure appropriate execution of funding and project deliverables 
•    Develops new research projects through outreach and discussions with external partners (industry, community, etc.)
•    Prepares project proposals and contracts in partnership with project leads
•    Leads research contract negotiations with R&I staff and partners and secures signed contracts for partner-led projects
•    Liaises with faculty, staff, students, partners, and funders to ensure effective and efficient execution of projects
•    Coordinates administration between the program and the corporate functions of the college (HR; Finance; Registrar; H&S; Purchasing)
•    Identifies program and project-based human resource needs 
•    Provides direct supervision to Researchers, Student Researchers, and Research Assistants/Associates within the portfolio 
•    Maintains a high level of staff performance through effective recruiting, selection, training, developing and evaluating of direct reports
•    Trains students, faculty and researchers on R&I processes and procedures, as needed
•    Represent R&I at external events and with partners 
•    Prepare communications materials on projects, such as success stories, case studies, etc.    

Qualifications:

•    Successfully completed a 3-year diploma or degree in Computer Studies, Mathematics, Finance, or a closely related discipline.
•    A post-graduate certificate or diploma in Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, or Computer Programming is required          to ensure foundational and applied expertise in advanced digital technologies.
•    Completion of a Project Management Certificate or PMP designation is required. 
•   A minimum of 5 years’ experience relevant technical and industry experience managing or coordinating applied research or innovation              projects in digital domains (e.g., data analytics, AI/ML, cloud computing, software development) is required.
•    Experience leading projects as the project manager
•    Demonstrated extensive financial management experience including budget development and management
•    Demonstrated ability to create financial forecasts and models
•    Demonstrated ability in performing trend analysis to identify opportunities for efficiencies
•    Familiarity with ethical AI principles, data governance, and cybersecurity frameworks is required, given the sensitivity and scope of digital           innovation projects within an academic and industry-partnered context.
•    Demonstrated ability to effectively attract, hire, develop & supervise staff
•    Demonstrated ability to manage in a multi-union environment
•    Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills
•    Ability to lease with senior management, all levels of staff, students, government and industry partners
•    Analytical and planning experience
•    Experience dealing with strict timelines/deadlines
•    Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)

Why Work with Us?

Georgian’s seven campuses are in some of the most sought-after areas in Central Ontario (Barrie, Midland, Muskoka, Orangeville, Orillia, Owen Sound and South Georgian Bay).  Our campuses play important roles in each of these communities, serving as centers for academic, social, and cultural activities, and contributing to the social and economic well-being of the areas.

In addition to a rewarding career, here are some of the other benefits offered to full-time employees of Georgian College:

•    We offer a competitive compensation rate, comprehensive benefits plan and a generous vacation policy as well as CAAT defined-benefit           pension plan which includes fully matched contributions.
•    A tuition reimbursement program that offers reduced course fees for college staff and their dependents. 
•    A holiday shut down period that allows employees to rest and relax with family and friends. 
•    A flex work program for most positions allowing employees the flexibility of working both on campus and remotely.  
•    All Georgian Employees have access to the EFAP:  Employees and their family members can call the program 24/7 for completely                     confidential support, information, and assistance.
•    Campus Safety Services:  Georgian is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment through the delivery of professional health and safety, security, parking, emergency management, conflict resolution and investigative services.

For a more in depth look at what Georgian has to offer, check out our website.

Are you ready to Experience Georgian?

If this opportunity matches your interest and experience, please apply online at: https://www.georgiancollege.ca/about-georgian/career-opportunities/ quoting Competition #103-25 by September 19, 2025. We thank all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Georgian College supports diversity, equity and a workplace free from harassment and discrimination and is committed to an inclusive, barrier-free environment. We invite applications from all qualified candidates and actively encourage applications from members of groups with historical and/or current barriers to equity, including, but not limited to persons of Indigenous ancestry, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. If you are contacted to participate in the interview, please advise the coordinator of any accommodations needed with respect to any materials or processes used to ensure you have access to a fair and equitable process.

Alternate formats will be provided upon request throughout the recruitment and selection process.