Strategic Projects Manager

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.

Based on SFU’s Burnaby Campus, SFU’s Partnerships Hub (SPH) champions the growth of key university partnerships and delivers on the strategic opportunities they represent. Working in close collaboration with the Vice‑President, Research and Innovation and the Vice‑President Advancement and alumni Engagement portfolios, SPH plays key role in positioning SFU as an active and responsive partner to industry, government, and community organizations.

Our goal is to create value with and for SFU’s partners.

The Strategic Projects Manager, within the Vice‑President, Research and Innovation (VPRI) office, is responsible for managing university‑wide priority projects and initiatives that support SFU's reputation, brand and revenue‑generating opportunities. The role works directly with proponents (VPs, AVPs, Directors, etc.) to develop project plans and ensure the successful implementation of those plans in adherence with project goals and deliverables. The role is responsible for end‑to‑end project management of various scales and complexities, including communications, and assesses variances from the project plans, budgets, and schedules, working closely with cross‑portfolio teams to provide seamless service to project sponsors and leaders.

The role provides leadership and support to the VPRI and executives in the advancement of strategic projects, and ensures achievement of quality standards, timelines, deliverables and risk mitigation.

The ideal candidate is a highly organized project manager with strong communication, analytical and problem‑solving skills. They have a proven record of leading complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives by building collaborative relationships and effectively managing timelines, risks, budgets and performance metrics. They thrive in dynamic environments with high levels of uncertainty and have successfully designed, developed, delivered and optimized new strategic projects.

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and five years related experience in managing projects, developing communication strategies, business case development, or risk management, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Experience working with cross‑functional teams in a commercial, industrial, higher‑education or public sector product or service context.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking with a proven ability to make good decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities and deadlines following project management best practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build effective working relationships across multiple teams.

At SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work‑life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer temporary employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• An additional 7% pay in lieu of benefits & 8% vacation pay
• Employer paid extended health & dental plans
• Professional development funds (minimum contract period of 1 year)
• Hybrid‑work program for eligible positions

The assignment end date is 1 year from start date.

Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.

SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.

We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact