Associate Director, Global Partnerships presso Simon Fraser University

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) Dean’s Office provides leadership, coordination, and support for the largest faculty at Simon Fraser University. We advance faculty-wide priorities in academic planning, student experience, and community engagement, while fostering partnerships that enhance teaching, learning, and research. The SFU Accelerated Law Program with the University of Exeter is a signature initiative within the FASS Strategic Academic Plan, reflecting our commitment to innovation, global engagement, and expanded pathways for student success.

About the Role

The Associate Director plays a pivotal role in launching and leading SFU’s new Accelerated Law Program with the University of Exeter. This high-profile program is a cornerstone of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences’ Strategic Academic Plan, offering students a unique global learning pathway and connections to the legal profession in Canada and the UK. The Associate Director will guide the student journey from admission through career placement, oversee program administration, and foster strong partnerships with international and local stakeholders. This role offers the opportunity to shape a signature program, build new models of student engagement and career readiness, and position SFU as a leader in innovative, globally connected education.

The ideal candidate is a strategic and collaborative leader with experience managing complex academic or professional programs. They excel at building partnerships across institutions and communities, and have strong organizational and project management skills to balance strategic planning with day-to-day operations. Skilled in student engagement, curriculum or program development, and budget management, they bring a student-centered mindset and a commitment to supporting belonging, success, and career readiness. Strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential, particularly in working with international partners and the legal community. The successful candidate is adaptable, innovative, and motivated by the opportunity to shape a new, high-impact program that advances SFU’s academic and strategic priorities.

Full Job Description 

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant discipline, and five years of related experience in financial administration, operational management and administration, strategic planning, project management, student or client engagement, curriculum development, planning and coordination, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills to guide a complex, multi-partner academic program.
• Demonstrated ability to foster student success through engagement, advising, and co-curricular programming.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with diverse stakeholders, including international partners and the legal community.
• Proven experience in budget planning, financial management, and program administration.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to innovate and adapt in a new program development environment.

What We Offer

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more! View our benefits brochure

*Prorated for part-time employees

Additional Information

This ideal candidate is able and willing to travel internationally to support program delivery and partnership development.

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact [email protected].