Senior Director, Strategic Operations and Process Transformation

Who We Are

Simon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose – the essence of SFU – is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.

The SFU finance team provides strategic and financial leadership to support the university’s academic and research mission. It oversees financial and research accounting, treasury, payroll, procurement, payment services and planning & analysis. The team collaborates across faculties and departments to help manage resources and support decision-making. It also maintains internal controls, develops policies, and ensures effective cash, investment, and risk management to sustain the university’s financial health and strategic priorities.

The Senior Director, Strategic Operations and Process Transformation provides strategic operational and financial leadership by working collaboratively with senior leadership team members in the Vice-President Finance & Administration (VPFA) portfolio and within the wider university community through the development, initiation and execution of projects and strategic initiatives. The role is responsible for facilitating the resolution of process, labour and system-related issues by proactively identifying opportunities to enhance services and drive efficiency and effectiveness.

The role is responsible for coordinating complex workflows and ensuring that policies, procedures and processes are up-to-date and aligned with institutional goals and objectives.

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field, and a CPA designation and seven years of related experience in administrative, personnel, financial, and operations management, including project and policy planning in a university environment, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Excellent knowledge of policies, procedures and collective agreements in a university environment.
• Excellent knowledge of financial operations including procurement, payables, payroll and research administration.
• Excellent operational planning and management skills.
• Ability to independently research, analyze, interpret, and respond appropriately in complex and sensitive situations.