CVRI Operations Lead

Competition 2731

This competition is open to all applicants however; internal candidates and applicants who were former employees of the University of Alberta will be given priority consideration before external candidates. Please log in to verify your internal candidate status.

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position has a term length of 48 months and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

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 Cardiovascular Research Institute

The Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) is a pan-faculty University of Alberta initiative integrating and building upon existing research strengths in cardiovascular (CV) research to create a comprehensive CV program that merges discovery and clinical science with clinical care and improved patient outcomes.

Position Summary

The CVRI Operations Lead plays a central leadership role in overseeing the day-to-day operations, administration, and strategic support of the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) at the University of Alberta. Reporting directly to the CVRI Director, this position ensures the effective coordination of administrative, financial, human resources, and communications functions across the institute.

The CVRI Operations Lead supervises the Operations Team, including managers of core research facilities and a part-time internal communications member, and is responsible for staff mentorship, resource management, and performance oversight. This role also leads the development and implementation of efficient administrative workflows and reporting processes that support high-quality service delivery to CVRI members.

Acting as a key liaison with institutional partners, the Operations Lead manages HR and financial processes, oversees internal and external communications, and ensures compliance with university policies. By streamlining operations and enabling cross-functional collaboration, this role supports the ongoing success and impact of the CVRI’s research environment.

Duties 

• Leads CVRI administrative and operational support, partnering with leadership to ensure efficient processes and effective project execution.
• Manages the Operations Team, overseeing staffing, performance management, recruitment, onboarding, and training for core labs and program areas.
• Oversees financial planning and reporting with the Finance Partner, ensuring compliance, accurate reporting, and development of key financial metrics.
• Drives continuous improvement, streamlining workflows and administrative processes to enhance efficiency and service to CVRI members.
• Manages communications and complex inquiries, aligning messaging with institutional branding and compliance requirements.
• Coordinates recruitment and selection for core lab and program leadership roles, ensuring processes meet university policies and legislation.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary diploma or degree required; with a minimum of 5 years of progressive administrative experience in large academic U of A units or large departments involving researchers, learners and administration staff.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, and Google applications, specifically for preparing detailed reports, and handling administrative workflows.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Peoplesoft and SupplyNET.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to coordinate operational activities, including, onboarding, and event planning.
• Proven ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences, both verbally and in writing (e.g., preparing reports, and delivering presentations to faculty and administrative staff). Demonstrated ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, and external partners to coordinate operational activities (e.g., research days and retreats).
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, including financial oversight, recruitment processes, and event coordination, while ensuring deadlines are met.
• Demonstrated ability to apply and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines, FOIPP, records management protocols, and all relevant university policies.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the University of Alberta policies and procedures and graduate education programs are considered an asset.