The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is actively seeking a transparent, collaborative, and student-focused leader to serve as their next Dean, Faculty of Arts. 

Located in Charlottetown, the capital city of Prince Edward Island, the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has a rich history with roots in two founding institutions, Prince of Wales College (est. 1834) and Saint Dunstan’s University (est. 1855). Formed in 1969 as the provincial university, UPEI honours its proud legacy through academic excellence and research innovation. UPEI’s ten faculties and two schools offer a wide range of programs and degrees to undergraduate, post-degree, graduate, and doctoral students. Home to Canada Research Chairs, a UNESCO Chair in Island Studies and Sustainability, endowed and sponsored research chairs, and 3M National Teaching Fellows, UPEI offers its students access to exceptional faculty, researchers, and staff.

The Role

Reporting to the Vice-President (Academic and Research), the Dean, Faculty of Arts will be a distinguished teacher, excellent scholar, a seasoned administrator, and will have demonstrated success in community partnerships and project management. The Dean will have exceptional communication skills, and an open, transparent, and collegial leadership style. As a persuasive and transformative administrator that leads with kindness and empathy, the Dean will be critical to the success of this diverse faculty. 

The Dean is responsible for the overall leadership of the Faculty, both strategically and operationally. By focusing on teaching excellence, student-centered learning experiences, collaboration and consultation, partnerships and promoting research connectedness, the Dean will work to position the Faculty and UPEI generally as a distinguished institution that can meet the needs of students today, and into the future.

The Dean is the chief academic and operating officer who is responsible for all academic, administrative and operational activities of the Faculty. Providing dynamic leadership, the Dean leads in the areas of student, faculty and staff affairs, academic programs and research, fiscal and resource stewardship, budgeting, internal and external relations, and strategic planning within the Faculty. The Dean is accountable for ensuring the academic quality and integrity of the Faculty and for program quality and accreditation. The Dean fosters a supportive and collegial culture that invites diverse ideas and perspectives, and reflects a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation.

The Ideal Candidate 

The ideal candidate for the position of Dean, Faculty of Arts at UPEI should be an accomplished and visionary leader with a deep understanding of education and research. The ideal candidate should possess a doctoral degree in a relevant discipline and have a distinguished record of scholarship and teaching. Additionally, the ideal candidate would have significant academic leadership experience, preferably at the level of department chair or associate dean, and a proven track record of fostering academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The ideal candidate should be able to inspire and mentor faculty, staff, and students, while also cultivating strong relationships with community partners, government agencies, and professional organizations. The ideal candidate would also possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, a commitment to diversity, inclusivity and reconciliation, and a strategic mindset to advance the Faculty.

Experience and Qualifications

The next Dean, Faculty of Arts should possess:

• An academic record consistent with appointment to the rank of Associate / Full Professor at the University.
• A record of successful academic, administrative, and leadership experience in a complex post-secondary environment.
• Significant academic leadership experience, preferably at the level of department chair or associate dean.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of Arts education, research, and the ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, promoting a dynamic academic environment.

The salary scale for this position is $160,000 - $200,000.

To learn more about this opportunity, contact Katherine Frank (kfrank@kbrs.ca) or Abbey MacLeod (amacleod@kbrs.ca). Completed applications can be submitted online at www.kbrs.ca/Career/18153

Since time immemorial, the Mi’kmaq People have walked gently on the traditional territories of Epekwitk, which is where the University of Prince Edward Island is located. We acknowledge that Mi’kma’ki is the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, who, in 1725 first signed Treaties of Peace and Friendship. We recognize Elders past and present who have cared for, and continue to care for, the land. In offering this acknowledgement, we affirm the history, experiences, and resiliency of Indigenous people who are still here today. We are grateful to live, work, and learn here and we are committed to building relationships based in honour and respect.

UPEI is committed to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation and believes in providing a positive learning and working environment where every person feels empowered to contribute. UPEI is committed to the principle of equity in employment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity, and others with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities.

In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

UPEI and KBRS will provide support in the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation in order to participate as a candidate in the recruitment process, please contact accommodate@kbrs.ca or communicate your needs to the recruitment professional named in the job description.