This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.
This position has a term length of 1 year plus 1 day.
Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person work at North Campus Edmonton.
The Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute (NMHI) is seeking an Operations Lead. This role plays a central leadership role in overseeing the day-to-day operations, administration, and strategic support of the NMHI at the University of Alberta. Reporting directly to the NMHI Scientific Director, this position ensures the effective coordination of administrative, financial, and communications functions across the institute. This role also supports the development and implementation of efficient administrative workflows and reporting processes that support high-quality service delivery to NMHI members.
Acting as a key liaison with institutional partners, the Operations Lead is responsible for financial processes, oversees internal and external communications, and ensures compliance with university policies. By streamlining operations and enabling cross-functional collaboration, this role supports the ongoing success and impact of the NMHI’s research environment.
The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is one of the world’s top academic health science centres. With 21 departments, multiple research institutes and centres, and a focus on excellence in education, research, and clinical care, the faculty trains outstanding medical and dental professionals and drives global health innovation in collaboration with partners across sectors.
Administration Activities
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Leads administrative and operational support for NMHI projects, director initiatives, and leadership meetings, ensuring efficient service delivery
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Develops, reviews, and improves workflows, processes, and administrative procedures to support continuous improvement and customer service excellence
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Prepares operational reports, maintains digital files and records, and manages routine administrative tasks using Google and Microsoft Office suites
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Provides direct support to the director and oversees purchasing-related responsibilities, including P-card administration
Financial Leadership & Reporting Activities
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Works collaboratively with the Finance Partner to provide financial guidance, updates, and advice to the director in alignment with university policies
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Supports development and implementation of financial management best practices, reporting procedures, and process improvements for transactional activities
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Oversees timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting, including expense tracking, projections, and required approvals
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Coordinates budget reporting across core labs and program areas and leads development of a financial metrics dashboard
Reputation & Relationships Management Activities
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Reviews and approves routine communications, including newsletters, announcements, and reports, in partnership with the director
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Manages responses to escalated and complex inquiries received through multiple communication channels
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Coordinates information requests, surveys, and reporting processes, including compiling results for leadership review
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Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with campus partners and university units to ensure alignment, compliance, and consistent processes
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Post-secondary diploma or degree required.
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Minimum 1 year of progressive administrative experience in large academic U of A units or large departments involving researchers, learners and administration staff. A combination of education and experience may be considered.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office, and Google applications, specifically for preparing detailed reports, and handling administrative workflows.
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Demonstrated proficiency with Peoplesoft and SupplyNET.
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Demonstrated ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to coordinate operational activities, including, onboarding, and event planning.
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Proven ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing (e.g., preparing reports, and delivering presentations to faculty and administrative staff).
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Demonstrated ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to coordinate operational activities (e.g., research days and retreats).
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Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, including financial oversight, recruitment processes, and event coordination, while ensuring deadlines are met.
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Demonstrated ability to apply and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines, FOIPP, records management protocols, and all relevant university policies
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Demonstrated knowledge of the University of Alberta policies and procedures and graduate education programs are considered an asset.
Application Instructions
Click "Apply Now" to submit your resume and cover letter.
This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.
The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.
Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.
At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.
The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.
L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
