Job Description

Your Opportunity:
This position plays a key role within the University of Alberta Hospital Surgery and Endoscopy portfolio. The Program Strategy and Operations Lead provides leadership in the strategic design, implementation, and evaluation of health service initiatives to improve patient experience and health outcomes. Working closely with the Executive Director of Surgery and physician leaders, this role ensures operational needs are met while advancing strategic priorities. The incumbent leads planning and execution of program initiatives, facilitates engagement with internal and external stakeholders, and promotes evidence-based approaches to health service delivery. The position influences culture change through knowledge mobilization, implementation science, and change management. Strong relationship-building skills are essential to collaborate effectively with staff, physicians, patients, families, and partners. This role requires a dynamic leader who can manage complexity, drive innovation, and deliver measurable improvements aligned with organizational goals.
Description:
This position plays a key role within the University of Alberta Hospital Surgery and Endoscopy portfolio. The Program Strategy and Operations Lead provides leadership in the strategic design, implementation, and evaluation of health service initiatives to improve patient experience and health outcomes. Working closely with the Executive Director of Surgery and physician leaders, this role ensures operational needs are met while advancing strategic priorities. The incumbent leads planning and execution of program initiatives, facilitates engagement with internal and external stakeholders, and promotes evidence-based approaches to health service delivery. The position influences culture change through knowledge mobilization, implementation science, and change management. Strong relationship-building skills are essential to collaborate effectively with staff, physicians, patients, families, and partners. This role requires a dynamic leader who can manage complexity, drive innovation, and deliver measurable improvements aligned with organizational goals.

Classification:

Lead

Union:

Exempt

Unit and Program:

Surgery

Primary Location:

U of A Hospital

Location Details:

As Per Location

Temporary Employee Class:

Temp F/T Benefits

FTE:

1.00

Posting End Date:

15-DEC-2025

Date Available:

05-JAN-2026

Temporary End Date:

05-JUL-2027

Hours per Shift:

7.75

Length of Shift in weeks:

4

Shifts per cycle:

20

Shift Pattern:

Days

Days Off:

Saturday/Sunday

Minimum Salary:

$37.82

Maximum Salary:

$64.86

Vehicle Requirement:

Not Applicable

Required Qualifications:

An undergraduate degree in a healthcare profession, healthcare management, or business administration is required. A minimum of five years of progressive healthcare experience and at least three years in a leadership role are essential. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in strategic planning, project management, quality improvement, data analysis, and program development. Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and organizational skills are required. The role demands independent critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and the ability to manage competing priorities. Experience overseeing multiple projects and influencing decision-making with senior leadership is necessary.

Additional Required Qualifications:

The successful candidate will possess advanced leadership skills, including the ability to coach, mentor, and inspire others. Strong knowledge of change management principles and implementation science is required. The role requires proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, as well as the ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions. Candidates must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, presentations, and briefing notes. The ability to foster collaboration and build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders is critical. Skills in data interpretation, risk management, and quality improvement are also necessary. A self-directed approach and the ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment are essential.

Preferred Qualifications:

A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred. Training in Lean, PROSCI, or other process improvement methodologies is desirable. Experience in healthcare leadership or operational management is an asset. Candidates with proven ability to manage change, foster partnerships, and demonstrate innovative thinking will be highly regarded.