Vice President, Academic

Position Description Vice President, Academic and Student Experience Reporting directly to the President & CEO, the Vice President Academic and Student Experience (VPASE) is a member of the Executive Leadership Team. This pivotal role honors and implements Keyano College’s vision, mission, values and mandate as well as College policies and procedures to promote student success. The VPASE focuses on academic excellence, student engagement and program sustainability through teaching and learning, applied and pure research, and the provision of academic support services that enhance program completion rates and promote student success. The VPASE serves as a trusted advisor to the President & CEO and the Executive Team and provides leadership to Academic Council, Deans’ Council, and other internal and external stakeholders in support of Keyano College’s Strategic Plan. The VPASE ensures appropriate communication, collaboration and coordination with business and community agencies to promote student success at Keyano College, including strategic enrolment management. The VPASE is accountable for the academic integrity of all academic programs and student support services. This position provides oversight to the various departments within the academic and student experience portfolio, in addition to other duties as assigned by the President or Board of Governors. The VPASE ensures quality and integrity for the awarding of all certificates, diplomas, degrees and other related program offerings. Key Accountabilities Academic Leadership & Student Success Ensure the academic integrity, quality, and relevance of all programs, credentials, and learning pathways. Lead teaching and learning excellence, applied research, and academic innovation. Oversee student support services to improve retention, completion rates, and overall student experience. Contribute to the development, implementation, and reporting of the College’s Strategic Plan. Strategic Planning & Governance Translate institutional priorities into divisional plans, goals, and measurable outcomes. Provide executive leadership to academic governance bodies and internal committees. People Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness Lead, develop and support Deans, Directors, the Registrar, faculty, and staff across a unionized environment. Foster a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture. Manage performance, succession planning, and leadership development across the division. Address conflict and employee relations matters in collaboration with People & Culture. Financial & Risk Management Provide stewardship for an operating budget exceeding $10 million. Ensure transparent, accountable financial decision‑making aligned with institutional priorities. Identify, assess, and mitigate academic, operational, and reputational risks. Ensure compliance with collective agreements, legislation, and College policies. External Relations & Service Delivery Collaborate with government, post-secondary partners, employers, Indigenous communities, and external stakeholders. Ensure programs align with labour market demand and regional economic needs. Champion service excellence and continuous improvement across academic and student services. Desired Candidate Abilities, Background and Experience Qualifications & Experience Doctoral degree or equivalent degree required. Minimum 7 years of senior level academic and/or student services leadership experience in a post‑secondary institution. Demonstrated experience managing complex budgets, leading change, and supervising senior leaders. Strong understanding of academic governance, policy development, and collective agreements. Experience in northern, rural, or Indigenous community contexts is a strong asset. Experience in non‑profit, public sector, or industry‑aligned training environments is considered an asset. Core Competencies Seasoned Academic leader and executive member Results and Values driven Strong interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder‑management skills Strategic thinking with operational discipline and proven sound judgment Innovative problem solver able to work under pressure and with tight timelines Financial acumen and accountability Personal credibility, integrity, and professionalism – lead by example #J-18808-Ljbffr