University Secretary, University Secretary’s Office
Required Position
Full-Time Appointment
Responsibilities
The University Secretary plays a pivotal role in institutional governance, policy advising, and administrative coordination. Reporting to the President and the Chair of the Board of Governors, the University Secretary ensures effective governance structures and regulatory compliance while promoting transparent and efficient communication between governing bodies and the broader University community.
Given Laurentian University’s tricultural mandate, the University Secretary must demonstrate a deep commitment to fostering inclusive governance practices that reflect the diverse perspectives of its stakeholders.
Governance Leadership
- Serve as the principal advisor on matters of governance to the Board of Governors, and senior administration.
- Provide expert guidance and administrative support to the Board of Governors, ensuring adherence to governance best practices, university policies, and relevant legislative frameworks.
- Act as a central advisor on governance procedures, bylaws, terms of reference, and policy implementation.
- Ensure compliance with institutional policies and government regulations while fostering ethical and transparent decision-making.
- Oversee policy development, revision, and implementation within the framework of the university’s bicameral governance structure.
- Develop training sessions and governance resources for Governors to ensure operational efficiency and adherence to university policies.
- Serve as a liaison between university governing bodies, the President, senior administrators, faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
Board & Committee Administration
- Organize and support meetings of the Board of Governors, including agenda preparation, distribution of materials, and drafting minutes.
- Ensure the smooth operation of Board standing committees, working groups, and task forces by providing governance and procedural advice.
- Maintain official records and archives related to governance decisions, ensuring accessibility and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Coordinate elections, appointments, and leadership transitions related to university governance.
- Communicate governance decisions and updates to the university community to foster transparency and accountability.
Bilingual & Tricultural Mandate
- Ensure that governance policies, procedures, and communications are accessible in both English and French, reflecting the bilingual nature of the institution.
- Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within governance processes, ensuring Indigenous representation and engagement through culturally informed practices.
- Support Indigenous-led governance initiatives by facilitating meaningful collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders.
Office Leadership and Administration
- Provide leadership to the Secretariat team, including recruitment, performance management, coaching, and succession planning.
- Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively.
- Maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders (e.g., Executive team, faculty, staff) and external governance professionals.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- University Degree in law, public administration, governance or a related field.
- Juris Doctor (JD) or professional designation such as Governance Professionals of Canada Designation (GPC.D) or Institute of Corporate Directors, Director (ICD.D) considered an asset.
- Seven (7) to Ten (10) years of progressively senior experience in governance, administration, policy advisory, or a similar role within a university or non-profit organization.
- Ability to work fluently (verbal and written) in both official languages, French and English, is required
- Strong understanding of bicameral and collegial governance models within post-secondary institutions, including parliamentary procedure, and the role of policy in institutional operations.
- Superior communication skills—verbal, written, and interpersonal—with experience working with diverse stakeholders. Bilingualism is required (English and French.)
- Familiarity with Indigenous governance practices and protocols, along with a demonstrated commitment to reconciliation and Indigenization in university governance.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
- Experience interpreting and applying statutes, policies, and governance frameworks.
- Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Google Workspace an asset.
- Exceptional judgment with a proven track record of advising senior leaders and managing confidential and politically sensitive matters with discretion and tact.
The official University hours of operation shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, during, and including, the months from September to April, and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m Monday through Friday during and including May to August., amounting to thirty-three and three-quarter (33.75) hours per week.
Laurentian University has adopted a formal Policy on Flexible Work Arrangements, which supports remote work plans based on operational considerations. At Laurentian University, we recognize that work-life balance is essential for both personal well-being and professional success. Our policy offers employees some flexibility to better balance personal needs while maintaining effective service delivery.
Apply Now
Applications will only be accepted through our online form.