Executive Director (ED), McKenna Institute

Havens Alliance Group - Executive & Technology Talent Solutions; Fredericton; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Havens Alliance Group is seeking an Executive Director for the McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick. This role encompasses strategic leadership in digital transformation, public policy, and innovation, aiming to foster collaboration and drive impactful initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a master's degree, executive-level experience, and a passion for social impact. The position offers a competitive salary along with comprehensive benefits in a vibrant academic community.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Minimum of three weeks of vacation annually

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a senior executive role.
• Strong understanding of digital innovation and economic development.
• Ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the strategy and operations of the McKenna Institute.
• Drive digital transformation and partnership development.
• Ensure successful design and launch of key initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Communication

Education

Master's degree in business administration or management

Tools

IT proficiency

Job description

Closing Date: July 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM

About the McKenna Institute:

The McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) is a catalyst for digital transformation. Founded through a generous gift from the Rt. Hon. Frank McKenna, the Institute brings together academia, government, industry, and communities to help New Brunswick thrive in the digital age. It is a driver of innovation, equity, and opportunity across the province-and beyond.

About the University of New Brunswick:
The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is Canada's oldest English-language university, and New Brunswick's only national comprehensive university. Founded in 1785, the multi-campus institution has a rich history as well as a dynamic focus on research, innovation, experiential learning and entrepreneurship. UNB welcomes more than 10,000 students from 100 countries to its campuses. With over 100 programs in 14 faculties, UNB helps students acquire the abilities needed to make an impact in their communities.

The University of New Brunswick stands on the unsurrendered and unceded traditional Wolastoqey land. The lands of Wabanaki people are recognized in a series of Peace and Friendship Treaties to establish an ongoing relationship of peace, friendship, and mutual respect between equal nations.

WHAT WE OFFER

Full-time | 5-year Term | Fredericton or Saint John | On-Campus

UNB is committed to ensuring employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Standard Work Hours: Mon - Fri | 8:15 am - 4:30 pm | 36.25 hours per week

Additional Working Conditions:

• This role requires flexible hours and the ability to travel.

Salary Range: Commensurate with experience and qualifications

YOUR FOCUS

The Executive Director oversees the strategy and operations of the McKenna Institute and reports to the President of UNB. The Executive Director provides strategic direction, operational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and external representation to advance the mission and goals of the Institute.

The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and respected leader with experience in digital transformation, public policy, innovation ecosystems and partnership development. They will be passionate about social impact, collaboration, and the role that digital technologies play in shaping inclusive economic growth.

As a leader and respected professional, the ideal candidate will embrace a consultative mindset in engaging with stakeholders, and in dealing with complex and sensitive circumstances.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Drive continued momentum and execution of the Institute's strategic plan in alignment with UNB's vision and the evolving digital landscape in New Brunswick and beyond.
• Partnership Development: Build strong relationships and programs with government, industry, Indigenous communities, NGOs, and academic partners.
• Program Oversight: Ensure the successful design, launch, and evaluation of key initiatives in areas like digital equity, data science, innovation policy, and future skills for key sectors of the economy.
• Resource Management: Oversee financial, human, and operational resources to ensure effective and sustainable growth of the Institute.
• Public Representation: Serve as the face of the Institute in public forums, media, and stakeholder engagements.
• Fundraising and Advancement: Work with donors and funding partners to sustain and grow the Institute's resources and impact.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Master's degree in business administration, management, or a related field or equivalent.
• Proven leadership experience in a senior executive role, preferably within a private sector organization or entrepreneurial organization.
• A strong background in one or more of the following areas: digital innovation, public policy, research and development, economic development, or community engagement.
• Demonstrated ability to foster collaborative partnerships across sectors.
• Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and the ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of New Brunswick's social, economic, and digital landscape and global technology trends is essential.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, program development, and financial management.
• A track record of driving organizational growth and impact, with a focus on long-term sustainability.
• Proven leadership and management skills with experience leading a diverse team of high performing leaders.
• Familiarity with the New Brunswick business, government and academic environment and its unique opportunities and challenges.

• Strong proficiency in IT, with a passion for emerging technologies and digital innovation.

Additional Information

WHY CHOOSE UNB?
UNB offers an outstanding employment experience that includes comprehensive suite of benefits for employees, including a full pension, a minimum of three weeks of vacation annually, extensive professional development opportunities, a robust Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), and dental, life, and health insurance.

WHY CHOOSE THE MCKENNA INSTITUTE?

• Lead one of Canada's most innovative digital transformation institutes.
• Work alongside leading academics, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
• Contribute to meaningful economic and social change in New Brunswick and Canada.
• Be part of a vibrant academic community at one of Canada's oldest public universities.

ADMINISTRATIVE, PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL GROUP (APT)
This position is part of the non-union Administrative, Professional and Technical (APT) group.

COMMITMENT TO EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
The University of New Brunswick is committed to employment equity and fostering diversity within our community and developing an inclusive workplace that reflects the richness of the broader community that we serve. The University welcomes and encourages applications from all qualified individuals who will help us achieve our goals, including women, visible minorities, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

Confidential inquiry before applying?Please contact Shawn Quinlan (Associate Vice President of People & Culture) [e-mail]

We thank all who apply; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.