Director, Partnerships, Pathways, and Essential Skills

Northlands College is seeking a visionary, community-focused leader to serve as Director, Partnerships, Pathways, and Essential Skills. About Northlands College Northlands College provides programs and courses across multiple campuses in northern Saskatchewan, serving communities where the majority of residents identify as Métis, Dene, or Cree. As the only post-secondary institution with its administrative offices located in northern Saskatchewan, Northlands College plays a vital role in creating local employment, building capacity, and strengthening the regional economy. We offer high-quality education and training that meets the development and employment needs of Northerners, enhances social and economic well-being, and helps industry meet its workforce needs. Our college is built on a foundation of cultural diversity, innovative program delivery, and responsive community partnerships — guided always by the strengths and priorities of the people we serve. The Position Reporting to the Vice President, Academics, the Director, Partnerships, Pathways, and Essential Skills provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for Essential Skills programming, external partnership development, and program innovation across the College. This role is responsible for strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, industry partners, government agencies, and post-secondary institutions; advancing learner transitions and pathways; and ensuring that programs are developed, implemented, and continuously improved to meet academic standards, community priorities, and regional labour market demands. The Director works collaboratively with academic leaders and program staff to support sustainable enrollment, program relevance, and long-term institutional responsiveness. Key areas of responsibility include: - Strategic leadership in partnership development, learner pathway design, and program innovation - Supervision and mentorship of the Senior Coordinator, Adult Basic Education and Program Assistant - Pathway mapping and laddering initiatives to improve learner access, mobility, and transitions - Identification and pursuit of grants, contracts, and partnership-based funding opportunities - Budget preparation, monitoring, and financial reporting for areas of responsibility - Oversight of recruitment, training, and performance evaluation for Adult Basic Education staff - Engagement with northern labour market partners to inform strategic and program planning - Monitoring and reporting on college regional KPIs The Ideal Candidate We recognize that no single candidate will possess all of the following qualifications equally. We value diverse lived experiences, and qualifications will be considered holistically in the assessment of candidates for this position. The successful candidate will be an experienced and inspiring leader with a track record of success in post-secondary or adult education program development, partnership building, and community engagement. They will bring a strategic mindset, collaborative leadership style, and the ability to manage teams, administer budgets, and deliver results aligned with institutional priorities. Above all, the ideal candidate will bring a genuine commitment to Indigenous education, truth and reconciliation, and the success of northern learners. Required Qualifications - A Bachelor’s degree in Education, plus one (1) year of graduate studies in Education, and a professional “A” teaching certificate - A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in an educational setting - Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous communities - An equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered Preferred Qualifications - A Master’s degree or relevant professional designation - A minimum of two (2) years of teaching experience - Eligibility for registration with the Saskatchewan Professional Teachers Regulatory Board For a detailed position description, please contact Saxena.ankur@northlandscollege.sk.ca. The Compensation A competitive compensation package will be provided, including an attractive base salary and a comprehensive benefits program. Further details will be discussed during the interview process. To Apply Please submit your resume and cover letter to saxena.ankur@northlandscollege.sk.ca Deadline for applications is May 07, 2026, at noon. Please reference competition number NC-25-086 in all communications. If you have any questions about this competition, please contact the People & Culture department at 306-425-4476. Our Values - Accountability: Upholding responsibility and transparency in all actions. - Integrity: Maintaining honesty and strong ethical principles. - People First: Prioritizing the well-being and development of individuals within the community. - Culture: Respecting and integrating diverse cultural perspectives. - Sustainability: Committing to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. These values serve as the guiding principles for the College’s operations, shaping decision-making and fostering an environment that supports academic excellence and personal growth. Territory Acknowledgement: We acknowledge Northlands College operates on Treaties 5, 6, 8 & 10 Territories and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay respect to the First Nation and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement: Northlands College is dedicated to fostering environments where we live, learn, and work that embody equity, diversity, and inclusion. To advance these values, we seek individuals who demonstrate the ability to engage respectfully and productively with diverse perspectives and navigate power dynamics constructively. We strongly encourage applications from those who identify with groups that have historically faced barriers to equity and full participation.