McDermott + Bull has been engaged to lead the search for Vancouver Island University’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Human Rights. This search will be led by McDermott + Bull Principal Alex Verdecchia and Executive Search Consultant Katie Klarich.
Located on the beautiful Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia shoreline, Vancouver Island University (VIU) plays a vital role in the educational, cultural, and economic life of the area. Its main campus in Nanaimo and regional campuses in Duncan, Powell River, and Parksville, enrich its growing student body, staff, and faculty by connecting coastal beauty and a culture of community with high-quality education.
Reporting to the General Counsel and University Secretary, the Director of Diversity, Equity + Human Rights (DEHR) is responsible for providing the direction and oversight required to understand, assess, foster, cultivate, and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Working with all stakeholders, the Director, DEHR will lead the promotion and implementation of DEI policies, programs, and initiatives to effect systemic change and enhance the university community.
The ideal candidate has a master’s or professional degree in a relevant area of study, preferably with a focus on dispute resolution, human rights, DEI, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. They bring knowledge in all areas of human rights, harassment prevention, employment, and educational equity, with the proven ability to apply their knowledge to meet the needs and challenges of a complex organization.
Due to the mandate of this position, lived experience or marginalization and oppression as an Indigenous, Black, Person of Colour, LGBTQIA2S+ person or person with a disability is regarded as directly relevant to theskills and knowledge required for excellence in the role. Pursuant to Section 41 of the British Columbia Human Rights Code, preference will be given to applicants from the above equity-deserving groups.
If you know of anyone who might be a good fit for the role, they can submit their CV and letter of introduction for consideration, in confidence, please visit https://mbexec.com/viu-director-of-dehr/. For more information, please contact Kate Klarich at kklarcih@mbexec.ca or Alex Verdecchia at averdecchia@mbexec.ca in McDermott + Bull’s Vancouver office.