Manager Equity and Belonging

University of Guelph•Guelph, ON

About The Position

Student Housing Services is committed to building living, learning, and working environments where every member of our community experiences an authentic sense of belonging. As part of this commitment, Student Housing Services (SHS) has identified key areas of focus to better support an evolving and increasingly diverse population, including Indigenization, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (IEDIA), the experience of international students and graduate students. Reporting to the Director of Residence Life, Student Housing Services, the Manager, Equity & Belonging, serves as the department lead and subject matter expert on IEDIA and inclusive residence communities. The role provides strategic leadership, consultation, and coordination to advance equitable policies, programs, and practices that enhance the student experience in residence. The position will build connections across campus in support of IEDIA, International Students and Graduate Students.

Requirements

Completion of an undergraduate degree in a relevant field.
Minimum of three (3) years of related work experience.
Demonstrated knowledge of the needs and experience of equity-seeking student populations and community members.
Proven ability to assess needs and to research, design, implement, and evaluate programming, including educational and training programs and curricula.
Experience providing consultation and guidance on issues related to equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Demonstrated excellent human relations, and advising skills, especially the ability to empathize, and communicate effectively in intercultural, and postsecondary settings.
Proven ability to exercise a high level of judgement, diplomacy, and tact.

Nice To Haves

A Masters degree or graduate certificate in a related field would be considered an asset

Responsibilities

Leads the development and implementation of departmental strategies and action plans related to IEDIA and international and graduate student experience in residence.
In collaboration with the Sr. Management team, identifies systemic gaps and opportunities across programs, services, policies, hiring, and student supports, and establishes measurable goals to advance equity and belonging.
Oversees and enhances training and educational initiatives for professional and student staff in Student Housing Services; assesses ongoing learning needs and ensures staff are equipped to support diverse student populations; annually they will review the training staff receive, identify areas of need and initiate training/education in these areas; and will embed IEDIA principles into onboarding, ongoing development, and training sessions.
Provides expert consultation and guidance to professional and student staff on issues related to equity, inclusion, and belonging in residence; supports responses to complex student situations, offers referrals and resources; and, contributes to the development of equitable and responsive policies and practices within Housing.
Designs and implements assessment strategies to better understand the residence experiences of diverse student populations, including international and graduate students; uses data and student feedback to inform program development and continuous improvement; and facilitates student advisory groups, committees, or communities of practice that foster connection, belonging, and peer support.
Represents Student Housing Services on campus-wide committees and working groups related to equity, inclusion, Indigeneity, accessibility, international and graduate students.
Builds strong partnerships with campus stakeholders, including Student Affairs, the Office of Diversity and Human Rights, Indigenous Initiatives, and academic units; and leads or contributes to departmental committees and initiatives as required.
Responsible for maintaining positive relationships and collaborating with key stakeholders on campus, including faculty, members of student affairs, students, The Office of Diversity and Human Rights, Campus Safety, etc.
Recommend solutions and implement the appropriate delivery systems to foster an environment of inclusion and respect.
Responsible for the development and delivery of strategic training initiatives and activities aimed at maintaining an inclusive, accessible, and safe environment for those living in residence and working for Student Housing Services.