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Job Title


Director, Strategy and Operations


Company : Dalhousie University


Location : Halifax, Halifax County


Created : 2025-10-22


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Job Summary Reporting to SKIPs Scientific Director and working in close collaboration with SKIPs Associate Scientific Director and SKIPs Managing Director, the Director of Strategy and Operations will be based in Halifax, Nova Scotia in SKIPs Administrative Centre on the Dalhousie campus. The newly created Director of Strategy and Operations position will play a critical leadership role in advancing SKIPs mission to improve childrens pain management by supporting the organizations strategic growth and operational excellence. The Director will oversee key strategic initiatives, ensure strong governance and accountability, and strengthen internal capacity during a period of expansion. Key Responsibilities Drive strategic growth and expansion by supporting SKIPs national and international engagement and partnerships, leading funding proposals, and engaging with philanthropic and other interest-holders. Lead evaluation and impact reporting to demonstrate SKIPs outcomes, communicate value to interest-holders, and inform ongoing strategy. Strengthen organizational capacity by developing and implementing a strategic approach to supporting people and human resources (HR) across SKIPs network recruitment, onboarding, staff support, and development) to ensure HR priorities and practices align with SKIPs organizational strategic goals and activities, as well as relevant university and hospital policies and processes. Advance implementation of the Pediatric Pain Management national health standard by leading special projects that accelerate adoption, integration, and impact in healthcare systems. Support governance by overseeing SKIPs new governance structure, coordinating various SKIP committees, and supporting patient and family partnership processes to ensure effective, transparent, and aligned operations. Partner with SKIPs Managing Director on a variety of strategic, operational, and high-priority initiatives fostering collaboration and communication across the network, supporting cultural and operational shifts, using evaluation data to inform decision-making, and working with SKIPs leadership to develop and manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and implement systems and tools that enhance operational efficiency and optimize network performance). Note The successful applicant will be eligible for hybrid work (combination of in-person work on campus and remote work from within Nova Scotia) as agreed by all parties based on operational requirements and university guidelines. Required Qualifications Graduate degree in a health sciences, business administration, public policy, or related discipline with 5+ years experience in strategic planning, operations, or program management (or an equivalent combination of training and experience). Experience working collaboratively with executive leadership to translate strategy into operational plans. Experience leading HR processes, including recruitment, staff development, and network-wide support along with a proven track record in evaluation, impact reporting, or performance measurement. Experience managing complex projects and special initiatives, ideally in health systems or standards implementation. Strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and teams. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships across committees, networks, and patient / family partners. Assets Experience in a research, healthcare, or non-profit environment. Familiarity with Dalhousie University systems and financial procedures, particularly in a grant-paid environment. Experience engaging with external interest-holders, including national and / or international partners, funders, policymakers, and philanthropic organizations. The ability to communicate effectively in French, both orally and in writing, as SKIP engages with diverse partners and knowledge users across Canada, including Francophone communities. Additional Information Dalhousie University supports a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Our total compensation package includes a voluntary RRSP, health and dental plans, a wellness allowance, an employee and family assistance program and a tuition assistance program. Application Consideration Non-probationary bargaining unit employees (PSAC Local 86001) are given priority consideration. All other applications will be considered when there is no qualified candidate from the bargaining unit. We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring department or People and Culture. Diversity Statement Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mikmaq), persons of Black / African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. #J-18808-Ljbffr