Project Specialist - Strategic Initiatives

About Western

Since 1878, Western University has been committed to serving our communities through the pursuit of academic excellence and by providing students, faculty, and community members with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social, and cultural growth.  We seek excellent students, faculty, and staff to join us in what has become known as the "Western Experience" - an opportunity to contribute to a better world through the development of new knowledge, new abilities, new connections, and new ways to make a difference.

About Us

Western University’s mission is to be a destination of choice for the world's brightest minds seeking the best learning experience at a leading Canadian research university. The Office of the Provost provides leadership and direction that enables the University’s faculties to achieve their strategic goals and objectives. 

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Project Specialist will play a key role in advancing a variety of projects and initiatives that are of strategic importance for the Office of the Provost. The role will draft project plans and change management strategies for each initiative, compile information, prepare documentation, track correspondence, and coordinate, attend and document committee and working group meetings, while maintaining the utmost level of confidentiality and sensitivity. The role will manage appointment schedules, organize travel, support issues management, and research information required to support projects and working groups. In addition, the Project Specialist will facilitate the delivery of key university communications related to project implementation, and conduct research, data collection and analysis to support special projects within the Office of the Provost. 

Qualifications

Education:

• Undergraduate Degree in a related discipline (Social Sciences, Business, Communications)
• Project Management Professional or Agile project management certificate

Experience:

• 5 years experience coordinating or managing large-scale projects in a complex, confidential environment 
• Experience supporting administrative leaders or committees
• Experience drafting communications and/or presentations for senior leaders
• Experience coordinating or managing projects in an academic environment is preferred 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Organizational skills to facilitate multiple projects that are accurate and thorough, sometimes of a complex nature or involving competing priorities
• Knowledge of project management principles
• Familiarity with Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act regulations
• In-depth knowledge of best practices for handling sensitive and confidential information
• Communication skills to clearly express ideas in an objective manner, write clearly, and adapt communication style to suit the situation and audience 
• Ability to apply critical thinking to evaluate information and make appropriate decisions or recommendations
• Ability and willingness to employ a consultative and collaborative approach to addressing issues and making decisions
• Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite
• Demonstrated integrity and acts in accordance with Western's professional, ethical and procedural framework
• Ability to understand, interpret, and effectively communicate University guidelines, policies and practices to key stakeholders
• Multi-tasking skills to prioritize and consistently produce high-quality work within deadlines
• Problem solving skills with a sense of urgency in resolving issues and getting tasks completed
• Proven ability and natural inclination to develop relationships by interacting with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
• Client service skills with an ability to apply tact and diplomacy when dealing with sensitive issues and a range of personalities, cultures, motives and interests
• Possess a reputation for resourcefulness with a strong sense of accountability and initiative
   

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.  If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.


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