Job Description:In order to ensure your application is received by NAIT for thorough review and consideration, please apply directly through our Careers site atJoin our newly developed, centralized Academic Quality and Operational Excellence (AQOE) team at NAIT, and put your leadership talents to work as the Manager of Academic OperationsWe are seeking a dynamic and people-centric Manager of Academic Operations to lead our team of embedded Academic Operations Specialists. Our high-performing Academic Operations Specialists play a strategic and collaborative role in shaping the future of academic delivery and are central to enabling data-informed decision-making and driving operational excellence across Schools.Reporting to the Director of Academic Operations, the Manager of Academic Operations is a key leadership role within our newly established AQOE portfolio, aimed at enhancing the efficiency, compliance, and quality of NAIT's academic services.As Manager of Academic Operations, you will provide strategic guidance and operational oversight for key functions supporting NAIT's academic programs. You will lead efforts in resource management, process enhancement, and stakeholder collaboration to ensure aligned, efficient, and student-centered academic operations across the institute. Your leadership will foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and service excellence.Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Process Optimization: Develop, implement, and refine processes related to program-based resource planning, budget management, space utilization, and operational workflows, ensuring they align with NAIT's strategic priorities.
Team Leadership & Development: Lead a team of Academic Operations Specialists supporting academic operations, fostering a positive, collaborative, and performance-driven work environment.
Strategic Planning & Compliance: Translate institutional goals into operational strategies, monitor performance metrics, ensure adherence to policies and frameworks like the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration: Build strong relationships with academic leadership, internal departments, external partners, and government agencies to support collaborative decision-making and resource allocation.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize complex reports, enrollment data, and financial metrics to analyze trends, forecast needs, and inform operational strategies.
Financial & Resource Management: Oversee budget planning, resource allocations, and compliance with institutional policies to ensure effective use of financial, human, and physical resources.
Skills and Abilities:
A strategic leader with excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
A problem solver who can navigate complex operational challenges with innovation and tact.
A relationship builder committed to fostering a culture of high performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.
A detail-oriented professional capable of balancing strategic vision with day-to-day operational excellence.
Qualifications & Experience:
Bachelor's degree in a related field
Minimum of 7 years of experience in academic administration, operations management, project management or related roles, with at least 5 years leadership experience.
Extensive knowledge of post-secondary education environments, policies, and compliance requirements.
Proven experience in process improvement, financial management, and stakeholder engagement.
Strong analytical skills with experience interpreting complex reports and data trends.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).Why Join AQOE?
People-first culture: We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that supports professional growth and work-life balance.
Collaborative & Innovative environment: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation, continuous improvement, and meaningful impact.
Influence and Impact: Play a vital role in shaping the future of NAIT's academic excellence and student success.
If you are a strategic thinker, a collaborative and a people-centric leader passionate about advancing academic operations at an innovative institute, we encourage you to apply!Remuneration: $93,024.10 - $123,245.46 annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package.Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.About NAITWe are proud to have been named one of Alberta's Top Employers for 14 consecutive years. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT's culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.People are what make NAIT great, and we prioritize the employee experience. We offer focusing on health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth. In addition to excellent vacation time, we offer paid time off between Christmas and New Year's.NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.NAIT is committed to fostering an environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our . We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Pride at Work Canada. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any accommodations, please connect with us at .#LI-SH1 #LI-Hybrid -
