Strategic Officer, Indigenous Engagement

**Strategic Officer, Indigenous Engagement**:
**Primary Purpose**:The position will be responsible for projects related to supporting and measuring the implementation of ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous Strategy at USask. A large focus of the position will be on caring for the relationships between the Office of the Vice Provost Indigenous Engagement (OVPIE) and Indigenous organizations, MOUs, and agreements Including evaluation, renewals, and management. This position will also focus on policy review and research to better align the Indigenous Strategy with University policy and procedure.

The main objective of this position is to further strengthen capacity of the university community by focusing on system-wide learning and by further developing relationships with the Indigenous communities and to support teaching, learning and research across the University.

The Strategic Officer will work closely with the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement’s team on these responsibilities and will support event planning, special projects, and events.

**NATURE OF WORK**:Reporting to the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement, the position requires a high level of collaboration, relationship-building, and engagement with a variety of stakeholders to effectively guide the implementation of ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous Strategy. The Strategic Officer is responsible for developing system wide learning events for leaders, students, faculty, and staff at the University of Saskatchewan and for outreach initiatives.

The position is in a fast-paced, high-volume office with competing demands that require the ability to work under pressure. They will work at establishing respectful working relations with internal and external stakeholders and partners.

The position is in the Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement.

**ACCOUNTABILITIES**:
Provides project leadership, direction, oversight, and participation in the development and creation of projects supporting the long-term goals of the Office of the Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement.

Strong understanding and ability to guide ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous Strategy by implementing phases as they grow and develop.

Manages the direction for planning and organizing symposiums, workshops, and related events for the OVPIE;
Responsible for providing strategic guidance and ensuring alignment with the office’s overall goals and vision.

Oversees project initiatives, including scoping, scheduling, and logistics management;
Maintains effective relationships with various stakeholders and facilitates ongoing communication;
Identifies capacity, pacing, and resourcing issues, keeping executives informed of any timing concerns;

Manages project documentation, records meeting minutes, and coordinates follow-up correspondence;
Oversees the development of projects, funding proposals, grants, and special projects.

Lead the development and execution of the Spring and Fall ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan symposiums.

Develop an in-depth understanding of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.

Development and implementation of System Wide Learning Topics to Support the Implementation of the Indigenous Strategy;
Support education and protocol development for the Smudging and Ceremonies Policy

**Education and Awareness**

Continuous development and review of a reporting mechanism to identify and track implementation of ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous Strategy at USask;
Work closely with the OVPIE team on proposal development (fund development) for new programs and initiatives.

**Relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations**

Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations;
**Strategic Communications and Relationships**

Work with the team of the Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement to enhance partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations to enhance outreach initiatives and programs within and external to the university.

Assist with and contribute to annual reports and evaluation tools related to ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan, the Indigenous Strategy and Annual Reports;
Represent the Office of the Vice Provost, Indigenous Engagement on relevant internal and external committees, as appointed;
Other responsibilities as assigned.

**Education**:Master’s degree is preferred; Bachelors degree in a related field will be considered, with related work experience. Minimum of three years related work experience, preferably in direct association with Indigenous education, programs, and/or communities.

**Experience**: Familiarity and knowledge of Indigenous cultural protocols and ceremonial observances is preferred. Proven experience in the coordination of Indigenous events and initiatives. Familiarity with traditions and protocols would be considered an asset. Experience in post-secondary education an asset.

Experience in working with diverse groups of organiz