AI Initiatives Manager

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent university in Guelph is seeking an AI Initiatives Manager to drive ethical AI practices and training. This role involves developing the AI strategy, fostering communities of practice, and evaluating AI impacts within the academic environment. Candidates should possess a Master's degree, extensive experience in AI strategy, and strong analytical skills. The position is temporary full-time, aimed at ensuring the institution remains a leader in AI innovation while promoting inclusive practices.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, or equivalent.
• At least 5 years experience in strategy, implementation, or programming.
• Proficient with AI tools and understanding ethical considerations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the University’s AI strategy.
• Design and deliver AI training programs across departments.
• Conduct research and evaluations of AI initiatives.

Skills

AI tools proficiency

Training design and delivery

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Department:Office of the Provost and VP Academic
This position is represented by the agreement between the Professional Staff Association and the University of Guelph

Temporary full-time from 02/02/2026to01/29/2027

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant.
Career Opportunities (sapsf.com)

General Purpose

The University of Guelph is advancing a bold, innovative, and responsible approach to artificial intelligence that supports excellence in teaching, research, and operations. The Office of the Provost is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking AI Initiatives Manager to play a key role in efforts that shape how AI is adopted, governed, and understood across campus.

This role contributes to strategic and operational leadership to ensure the University remains at the forefront of AI innovation while upholding ethical, accountable, and inclusive practices. The Manager, AI Initiatives will champion AI literacy and capacity-building initiatives, guide institutional adoption, and provide expert consultation on AI-related projects, policies, and governance.

Duties and Responsibilities

In this role, the AI Initiatives Manager will partner with senior leaders to develop and implement the University’s AI strategy, including objectives, policies, and procedures. The position works across departments to identify opportunities, address challenges, and integrate AI solutions that advance teaching, research, and operations.

The Manager supports AI literacy and capacity-building efforts by designing and delivering training programs and frameworks, and offering tailored guidance on tools, applications, risks, and ethical considerations. They will foster communities of practice that encourage confident and responsible adoption of AI across the institution.

This role also drives AI implementation and governance by assessing use cases, defining success metrics, and creating guidance and operating procedures. The Manager will advise on governance structures and policy development to ensure responsible and transparent AI practices.

A critical aspect of the role is research and evaluation. The Manager will conduct environmental scans, monitor emerging trends, and translate best practices into actionable recommendations. They will evaluate the impact of AI initiatives and training programs using research methodologies, providing regular reports and actionable insights to leadership.

Finally, the Manager will develop strategies to manage resistance and promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. By leveraging research and consultation, this role ensures alignment with institutional priorities and supports change management across the University.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field (such as Data Science, Machine Learning, Educational Technology) or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 5 years’ experience working in roles involving strategy, implementation, or programming, with demonstrated ability to apply AI to real-world challenges.
• Proficiency with AI tools and platforms, including an understanding of ethical considerations.
• Experience designing and delivering training and education sessions for diverse applications and audiences.
• Experience working in a University environment and familiarity with research standards and academic integrity.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to translate technical concepts into practical applications.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building abilities.
• Commitment to continuous learning and ethical, inclusive AI practices.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including M365 Co-Pilot.

Employee Type: Temporary
Position Number: 10924692
Classification: P&M FT- Band 06
Professional/Managerial Salary Bands
The target hiring salary for this position is minimum and up to 96% of midpoint for the salary grade.

*Tentative evaluation; subject to committee review.

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date: 12/19/2025
Closing Date: 01/09/2026