Coordinator, First Peoples' Gathering House

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.

SFU is in the midst of redefining the structure, staffing and strategy that guides the university’s Truth & Reconciliation work and compliance with external frameworks. The Office for Indigenous Peoples builds on many years of great work at the Office for Aboriginal Peoples and exciting changes at the leadership level that created the position of Indigenous Executive Lead. The Office's work includes supporting safe and welcoming spaces, systems and programs for Indigenous students, faculty and staff; operating the First Peoples' Gathering House; building and sustaining a new Indigenous governance structure for SFU; managing Indigenous strategies at the university; and cultivating reciprocal relations with Host Nations and external Indigenous partners. In the spirit of Indigenization, Decolonization and Reconciliation, the small, dedicated OIP team works collaboratively, with mutual respect and compassion.

About the Role

The Coordinator, First Peoples' Gathering House (FPGH) coordinates events, activities and maintenance of this brand-new, signature facility at SFU's Burnaby campus. Based on unique, culturally specific usage policies and booking procedures, the Coordinator provides customer service to FPGH users and liaises with other University departments and units to deliver safe and successful events, cultural initiatives, programming and activities. The Coordinator will act as the main on-site staff to breathe life into the FPGH and make it a vibrant, welcoming space for Indigenous students, faculty, staff and visitors.

The ideal candidate would have knowledge of and passion for Indigenous cultural protocols and ways of knowing, being and doing. An experienced event or program coordinator, they should feel driven to help provide safe & welcoming spaces for Indigenous people in post-secondary education.

Pursuant to Section 42 of the B.C. Human Rights Code, the selection for this position will be limited to candidates who self-identify as Indigenous and will bring to their work the perspective that comes from the lived experiences of those underrepresented in higher education, particularly the experiences of Indigenous peoples. Indigenous candidates must self-identify in their application to be considered for the position.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Indigenous Studies, Business Administration, Education, Public Administration and four years of related experience working with Indigenous people in areas such as event management, office management and administration at public, post-secondary or other event-oriented facilities, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and ability to work cooperatively and effectively with others.
• Excellent organizational, customer service and event management skills.
• Knowledge of risk management and culturally aware and trauma-informed approaches and practices.
• Proficient in the use of standard office applications, information systems and operational procedures.
• Excellent ability to problem-solve with general supervision; and apply judgement and discretion.

What We Offer

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 continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks’ vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more! View our benefits brochure

*Prorated for part-time employees

Additional Information

Simon Fraser University is committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. We ask applicants to fill out the Applicant Demographic Survey administered by the Equity Office. Candidates who do not complete the Applicant Demographic Survey will not be considered for this position. The Hiring Committee will ask shortlisted candidates to provide further documentation of Indigenous ancestry. SFU acknowledges the potential emotional labour and/or (re)traumatizing impacts of sharing personal narratives in this context and encourages applicants to consider this fully in their decision-making to apply.

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 pei_reception@sfu.ca.