Associate Dean

About Olds College Of Agriculture & Technology

Founded in 1913, Olds College has been offering quality hands‑on education for over a century. We are a distinct, provincially focused institution that supports the teaching and learning of all Albertans. Through our regular programming, continued education, and online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.

About The School Of Life Sciences & Business

The School of Life Science & Business provides dynamic high‑tech, hands‑on learning opportunities in support of animal health, business and horticulture. The School is also home to the National Meat Training Centre and the Olds College Botanic Gardens. A variety of certificates, diplomas and applied degrees are granted from the School of Life Science & Business. Fields of study offered within the School of Life Science & Business are: Animal Health, Business, Equine, Horticulture, and the National Meat Training Centre.

The Opportunity - Associate Dean, School of Life Science & Business (Permanent Full‑Time)

The overall purpose of this role is to provide comprehensive administrative and academic leadership support to the Dean of the School of Life Science and Business. The incumbent ensures the effective and efficient operation of the School, particularly in matters of academic administration, curriculum quality, and student success. The Associate Dean contributes to achieving the School’s strategic goals by championing program excellence, improving student retention, and assuming full leadership responsibilities in the Dean’s absence.

What You Will Be Doing

Academic Program Management & Curriculum Development

• Facilitate the creation and revision of curriculum collaboration with the Teaching and Learning Centre of Innovation to ensure program quality and relevance.
• Manage the accreditation process with external governing bodies and articulation agreements with other institutions to maintain program recognition and student transfer pathways.
• Oversee the annual function of Program Curriculum Committees, ensuring discussions focus on teaching, learning, and assessment to drive continuous improvement.

Student Success and Academic Administration

• Serve as the principal point of contact for resolving conflicts or issues between students and faculty/staff to ensure fair and effective resolution.
• Develop and spearhead initiatives with program teams and support services to improve student recruitment and retention rates.
• Lead academic planning activities (e.g., registration, course selection, probation, accommodations) to guide students toward successful program completion.
• Enforce academic integrity policies among students to maintain educational standards.

Faculty & Operational Support

• Lead the School’s coordination with the Registrar’s office on timetabling and scheduling matters to optimize resource allocation.
• Provide direct assistance to faculty and staff on teaching and learning matters to foster instructional improvement.
• Support the Dean in establishing faculty workload schedules to ensure fair and balanced distribution of duties.
• Participate in and support Industry Advisory Committee meetings to ensure program alignment with industry needs.

People Management and Supervision

• Manage and supervise assigned employees, which may include Instructional Assistants and Administrative/Clerical staff to ensure efficient operation of the School.
• Assist in internal and external recruitment processes within the School to ensure appropriate staffing levels.

What You Bring To The Role

• A minimum of a relevant Bachelor's degree (i.e. Education, Science, Business) is required. Other combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Relevant and meaningful work experience in a post‑secondary or other educational environment providing instruction, student support and academic leadership.
• Exceptional written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, diplomacy, and good judgment. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others in a team environment.
• Capability to meet demanding deadlines and complete a high volume of diverse projects with a great degree of initiative and independence.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re eager to contribute to Olds College and shape the future of our students, we encourage you to apply! Explore the job description for further details about the position in the attachment.

In the 2025-28 Strategic Plan: Deep Roots, Bold Futures, there are three clear priorities — purposeful leadership in agricultural education, supporting our students and people, and strengthening partnerships. These priorities are focused and achievable within this three‑year timeframe, and ensure we concentrate on what matters most to our students, staff and the agricultural industry we serve.

Together, we are building a stronger, more unified future for Olds College.

Olds College offers a competitive benefit plan

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan (LAPP)
• Extended Health, Dental, and Prescription Drugs benefits
• Health/Personal Spending Account
• Generous Vacation Leave
• Paid Holiday Closure
• ‘Olds College in the Community’ volunteer leave
• Professional development and opportunities for growth

Open until suitable candidate found

We thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.