Centre Manager

Competition 2318

This position is part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Temporary Librarian, Administrative and Professional Staff Agreement, this position has a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary range of $76,135 to $104,709. This position has an initial appointment of 2 years from the date of hire.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Alberta School of Business

The Alberta School of Business is one of the world's leading institutions in business education and research and is the first and longest continually accredited business school in Canada. We're positioned to help shape the future of business with over 140 tenured, tenure track faculty and full and part-time academic teaching staff members who are at the forefront of cutting-edge research and innovative teaching. With 3400 students in our undergraduate program and 950 students in our graduate programs (including 58 PhD students), we are dedicated to fostering a welcome and supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. We equip our faculty and students with the latest insights and tools to ensure students receive a transformative learning experience that prepares them for success in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Since 1916, the innovative ideas, entrepreneurial spirit and leadership of the school's more than 33,000 alumni have strengthened businesses and communities worldwide. We actively foster partnerships with local businesses, organizations and government agencies, allowing our students and faculty to address real-world challenges and contribute directly to the local and global economy. Our outreach programs extend beyond the classroom, empowering students to use their skills for the betterment of society.

At the Alberta School of Business, you'll be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking community that values collaboration, inclusivity and continuous growth, making it an exceptional place to contribute your talents and expertise.

For more information about the school, please visit our website at: https://www.ualberta.ca/business.

Position

The AI Centre for Decision Analytics (AI4DA) is a dynamic interdisciplinary initiative at the University of Alberta focused on advancing research, innovation, and real-world applications of artificial intelligence in business and public decision-making. AI4DA connects researchers with industry and public-sector partners to foster data-driven innovation through collaborative projects, workshops, and community engagement.

The Centre Manager working under the direction of the academic director leads the Centre's operational, and external engagement activities. Operating within an interdisciplinary academic and research environment, this role plays a central part in advancing AI4DA's mission by supporting applied AI research, promoting innovation, and building strong partnerships with academia, industry, and government stakeholders.

The Centre Manager interacts with internal units across the university and external stakeholders including corporations, government bodies, donors, and startups. The role supports multiple interdisciplinary projects, manages outreach and promotional initiatives, and may supervise temporary staff or project-based hires. The position operates under the Academic Director and plays a central role in aligning AI4DA's activities with university and partner priorities.

Duties

• Responsible for the completion and monitoring of Centre budgets.
• In conjunction with Finance Partner, oversees Centre financial transactions across all sources of funding.
• Streamline internal and external communications to ensure operational efficiency.
• Determine resources (fiscal and human) required for various research projects and allocates resources as required.
• Design and implement solutions to operational challenges. Make continuous improvements to services, programs or operations to increase performance and deliver results.
• Manage and document AI4DA activities, research initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
• Coordinate cross-functional projects that align with the Centre's long-term goals.
• Oversee digital outreach and media strategies to raise the Centre's visibility.
• Oversee communications activities in conjunction with a Communications partner.
• Create and distribute promotional materials showcasing research and impact.
• Keep the Centre website and social media platforms up to date, informative, and engaging.
• Lead events (e.g., seminars, workshops) to drive AI adoption.
• Build relationships with external and internal networks including corporations, startups, and policymakers.
• Develop structured frameworks for academic-industry engagement.
• Support research and pilot studies in AI-driven decision analytics.
• Assist in designing educational content and training that bridges theory and application.
• Promote business-relevant AI strategies in optimization and automation.
• Ensure the proper application of University of Alberta Policy and Procedures within the areas (e.g., research administration, risk management, etc.).
• Build and sustain relationships with sponsors, donors, and agencies.
• Contribute to strategic growth planning and long-term sustainability.
• Actively, constantly seek funding/ grant opportunities.
• Identify grant opportunities and manage proposal submissions of funding/ grant applications.
• Direct the compilation of grant applications, scientific and financial reports and manuscripts and ensure timelines/deliverables are met.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business Analytics, AI, Data Science, Operations Research, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Solid understanding of AI and data-driven decision-making in both business and public-sector contexts.
• Demonstrated skills and experience in leading large-scale projects.
• Strong project management skills, including experience with budgeting, scheduling, and team coordination.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities, with a focus on external relations, media, and public speaking.
• Familiarity with educational platforms, analytics software, and emerging AI tools is a strong asset.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative, interdisciplinary teams.
• Strategic thinking, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience or keen interest in marketing, public relations, and business development is desirable.