Senior Program Officer

Job Summary:

As a single-point-access that connects Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) members with the federal government, national associations, non-profits and private sector, Government and Stakeholder Partnerships (GSP) creates opportunities where partners can gain from members’ industry and academic expertise, and where members can enrich learning and expand employment prospects for their students and actively support economic development nationally, regionally and locally.

Reporting to the Manager, the Senior Program Officer (SPO) is primarily responsible for the planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, reporting and budgeting of funded national programs and projects. An additional core responsibility includes engaging with key staff at all levels in member institutions, project and program stakeholders, including federal government officials and industry partners. The SPO provides supplementary support and guidance to the GSP team in a financial, administrative and event organization capacity.

The SPO has access to sensitive information with respect to national programs and projects and must ensure a high degree of confidentiality.

The work of the Senior Program Officer is reviewed by the Manager, based on objectives and work plans set annually.

General Expectations:

• play a leadership, consulting and problem-solving role with members, partners, senior officials, funding agencies, stakeholders and CICan staff;
• contribute to activities and planning that aligns with the strengths of CICan’s member colleges and institutes,
• interact effectively with CICan staff, senior and administrative staff from member institutions, government and partner organizations and is expected to maintain these important relationships;
• ability to function with a significant level of flexibility and autonomy, performing:

• various and complex tasks under pressure with attention to detail;
• prioritize multiple tasks and demands simultaneously;

• make efficient and strategic recommendations;

• troubleshoot as required and provide innovative problem-solving solutions within the framework of the assigned program, project, or activity;
• have a thorough understanding and knowledge of accounting principles, Colleges and Institutes Canada’s financial policies and procedures;
• demonstrated understanding of the Canadian educational milieu, focusing on the college/institute system;
• ability to exercise discretion and professionalism;
• treat everyone fairly and equitably and maintain high ethical standards;
• perform duties in accordance with CICan’s competencies, values and code of ethics; and
• be able to travel domestically, as needed.

Specific Expectations:

The Senior Program Officer will:

• develop project plans to monitor and track progress,
• track deliverables and support project and program team in the development of activities;
• design and maintain project or program operational processes using information and data management systems;
• ensure that all projects are delivered on-time, within scope and within budget;
• manage changes to project scope, project schedule and project costs using appropriate verification techniques;
• measure project performance using appropriate tools and techniques;
• liaise with program and project partners and stakeholders on a regular basis;
• prepare and update budgets, cash flows, financial reports and advance requests for projects and programs;
• perform risk management to minimize project risks;
• contribute to the development of communication tools including the website, brochures, reports, presentations and social media;
• ensure a consistent quality and style in writing and graphic design elements which meet the Association’s image and presentation standards as led by the Communications and Stakeholders Engagement Division;
• review/approve payment requests to consultants and expense reports prepared by program and project team members;

• provide assistance to external financial auditors during program audits;
• provide the Manager, and other divisions and teams with statistical and data reports as required;
• verify that financial transactions comply with CICan policies and all relevant contractual obligations as well as funder obligations (Treasury Board Guidelines) are met;
• draft/review contracts with consultants and partners and monitor deliverables and contract requirements;
• attend conferences and events as required;
• perform other related duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Minimum Requirements:

• graduate from a post-secondary institution, preferably a college, or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• three to five years' experience in leading projects;
• proven work experience in all aspects of project management; including planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and reporting aspects,
• demonstrated leadership, decision-making and problem-solving capabilities;
• strong writing and editing skills in English;
• working fluency in both written and verbal English;
• excellent communication skills;
• demonstrated abilities in budget development and management;
• experience in the preparation of narrative and financial reports experience in strategic planning, preferably as it relates to project/program operations;
• proficient in managing information and administrative processes;
• excellent research and analytical abilities, especially as they relate to financial analysis;
• advanced ability using Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint and Teams;

• applicants must show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning and working environment;

Desirable Abilities/ Experience:

• project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus;
• fluency in French will be considered an asset but is not required for this position;

CORE COMPETENCIES

Agility: We thrive in a complex environment that requires nimbleness and adaptability, and we anticipate and respond to changes with quick and resourceful actions.

Inspiring Others: We motivate individuals to strive for excellence and commit to common goals and purposes, as we create a sense of self-efficacy, resilience, and persistence in others.

Integrity: We treat others fairly and respectfully, and we further the standing of the organization and its relationships of trust with our members and other stakeholders.

Collaboration: We work together, across teams and divisions, to leverage our collective expertise and talents in support of organizational success and a culture of cooperation.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and résumé in a PDF format before April 4, 2024

CICan is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We recognize that diverse teams generate unique solutions, ideas, and perspectives. Therefore, we welcome and encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour) individuals, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Do not hesitate to contact 613-746-2222 x 5827 if you require alternative arrangements to submit your application. CICan provides accommodation during all parts of the hiring process, upon request, to applicants with disabilities. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

CICan is following local public health guidelines as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. When allowed to work from the office, we have a hybrid approach with individuals working from both home and the office. Depending on the requirements of the role, the opportunity may exist to work completely remotely.

It is a mandatory condition of employment that the successful candidate be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with Government of Canada approved vaccines at least 14 days prior to start date (proof of vaccination is required or proof of accommodation pursuant to the Ontario Human Rights Code).