Job Description

Associate Dean

Full-time Term Position

Regina, Saskatoon or Northern Campus



The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) allows students of all nations to learn in an environment of First Nations cultures and values. The University continues to uphold its mission of enhancing the quality of life and preserving, protecting, and interpreting First Nations people's history, language, culture, and artistic heritage. FNUniv is a unique learning place specializing in Indigenous knowledge and providing post-secondary education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students within a culturally supportive environment.



The First Nations University of Canada is a federated college of the University of Regina, and its academic programs are accredited through that institution.



FNUniv's values include wisdom, respect, humility, sharing, harmony, beauty, strength, and spirituality.



Under the direction of the Vice-President, Academic, the Associate Dean, Academic will work in coordination with the Vice-President to provide leadership in the University's academic work, having responsibility for general academic program development and approval, teaching development, sessional labour relations, and liaison with Program Coordinators, communities and other campuses,. The Associate Dean, Academic works in close collaboration with the Academic Administrator and faculty to ensure quality delivery and effective operation of the academic activities at the University and resolution of student matters. The Associate Dean, Academic will work with the Executive, Program Coordinators, Directors, Coordinators, faculty, students and community stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Promote the overall mission of the University with respect to First Nations cultural enhancement and First Nations self-determination initiatives through education in accordance with established policies and regulations of the First Nations University of Canada; Provide clear and concise reports on activities to the Vice-President, Academic regularly; Inform Senior Management about academic activities as appropriate; Provide innovative, flexible leadership to the University faculty and staff; Be knowledgeable of Indigenous customs, philosophical traditions, and ceremonial etiquette; Consult with Elders to obtain their guidance for academic meetings pertaining to local traditional cultural values and ceremonial protocol; Ensure that Elders are consulted and present at all appropriate meetings; Develop relationships and maintain effective communications with the campuses and other academic units; Play a lead role in student academic misconduct investigations; Coordinate hiring to ensure adequate staffing and advise new sessionals, lab instructors and teaching assistants in their career development; Supervise academic staff members including scrutinizing and approving academic related travel, miscellaneous claims and professional development forms, as well as approving and scheduling annual leave; Complete the annual performance review process for academic staff members; Attend Academic Council and Chair the Curriculum Review Committee; Work with Program Coordinators to ensure the effective operation of the academic activities of the University; Chair the Curriculum Review Committee to administer the review and process for the introduction of all new academic courses/programs and for the revision of existing courses/programs; Creating and time-tabling classes; Approving grade rosters and grade change forms; Ensuring compliance with academic administration policies and procedures; and Coordinate and negotiate with Human Resources regarding any sessional Collective Agreement matters.

Education/Experience Requirements:

This position requires a minimum of five years' experience in academic administration at a senior level. Strong record in teaching, research, community service, work with Elders and Indigenous communities.

Required knowledge and skills:

Knowledge of best practices in academic environments; curriculum development, management, and program assessment; program planning; instructional design and development, including enhanced technology methods of course delivery; and trends in general education. Ability to provide strategic recommendations to the Senior Administration regarding the academic mission of the University. Demonstrated knowledge of organizational structure, workflow, and operating procedures. Ability to understand and work in a flexible environment, working well under time pressures with simultaneous activities. Ability to work collegially and collaboratively with a wide range of people. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Proficient in the use of research, statistical analysis, and information technologies. Proven ability to provide sustained leadership in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Demonstrated planning, implementation and negotiation skills. Superior interpersonal and community relation skills and the ability to communicate effectively within a diverse community. An understanding of the contexts (political, cultural, academic) within which FNUniv operates. Ability to speak a First Nations language would be an asset. Knowledge of First Nations cultures, values and traditions is essential.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply online at www.fnuniv.ca.

Closing Date:

November 26, 2025



We would like to thank you for your interest and to all those that applied; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. The First Nations University of Canada relies on section 48 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code to give preference in employment for this position. Please indicate your status in your cover letter or resume.



Questions regarding this opportunity can be directed by email at humanresources@firstnationsuniversity.caWe wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. However, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.