Description The
Digital Futures Institute in the
Office of VP Research invites applications for a
Manager. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 24 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
This position reports to one of three Academic Co-Leads leading the development of the Digital Futures Institute. The Manager, Digital Futures Institute, plays a critical role in managing funds, data requests, and reporting, as well as the day-to-day management of the Digital Futures Institute.
This position also provides key operational program support to ensure the success of collaborative research initiatives. The work involves a high degree of complexity and requires attention to detail while maintaining a strategic vision, the ability to meet constant deadlines, and the flexibility to work with multiple partners and deal with shifting demands while ensuring satisfactory outcomes for all. Tasks to be performed are highly varied and range from report writing and consultation to matters requiring complex problem solving and creative solutions. The volume of work is high, and overtime work may be required during peak periods.
The Manager, Digital Futures Institute, will work with a wide range of partner and strongly contributes to the success of the Digital Futures Institute and outcomes of the projects within. This position will support and foster collaborations across the University of Calgary and beyond. Additionally, this position will be the point of contact for community partners, including academia, government, industry, and community representatives.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):
Strategic Planning
- Supports the Academic Co-Leads in developing the vision and mission for the Digital Futures Institute, and translates them into a strategy with clear metrics and expected outcomes.
- Prepares and presents status reports, correspondence, and other documentation.
- Provides timely and accurate information and updates and communicates progress to appropriate parties.
- Has the ability to anticipate potential objections and barriers, effectively communicate those potential challenges with the Academic Co-Leads, and present solutions and appropriate responses to those challenges.
- Establishes processes and procedures to ensure operational success of the Digital Futures Institute over the long term.
Relationship Building/Outreach
- Leads the coordination of events, workshops, and activities and establishes (transdisciplinary) collaborations on campus.
- Co-develops and maintains communication strategies and information programs to bring awareness to the Digital Futures Institute, engage diverse partners, and build membership.
- Works closely with the Academic Co-Leads for the Digital Futures Institute as well as other key partners on campus (Office of the Vice President Research, Faculties, other Institutes on campus, as well as Centres and other relevant units) to ensure that the Digital Futures Institute represents the UCalgary priorities and strengths.
- Establishes and maintains positive and effective working relationships with partners. Partners will primarily be internal and may include external partners as well.
Supervision of staff
Administration / Policy
- Supports the Academic Co-Leads in managing the Digital Futures Institute funding in accordance with University Policies and Procedures and provides financial reporting upon request.
- Maintains up-to-date knowledge of current University regulations and procedures.
- Collaborates with the Academic Co-Leads to maintain a strong network and database of internal and external partners, and other databases as required to report on progress on metrics and outcomes.
- Key point of contact for the Digital Futures Institute.
- Prepares drafts for presentations, reports, and other documents related to the Digital Futures Institute.
Qualifications / Requirements:- Graduate degree that incorporates digital and societal challenges in its areas of study or research.
- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in a related field.
- Experience in managing high-profile projects.
- Demonstrated experience in a post-secondary environment, preferably a major university or college, and in administrative procedures.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills: ability to quickly build positive relationships with various stakeholders.
- Outstanding communication, writing, and facilitation skills.
- Proven ability to manage projects and budgets.
- Ability to interact with senior leadership and senior administrative staff.
- Results-driven individual with a history of delivering high-quality work.
- Demonstrated ability to apply critical thinking consistently and effectively; sound decision-making and communication skills in a high-volume, fast-paced environment is required.
- Ability to organize and facilitate large events.
- Ability to utilize leading-edge AI tools effectively and responsibly (ChatGPT Work, Claude Cowork, etc.)
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Power BI, and PowerPoint)as well as comfort with common web, social media, and desktop software tools is required.
- Demonstrated familiarity with important national and global conversations around digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
- Managerial experience is considered an asset.
Application Deadline: November 9, 2026
We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
This position is classified in the
Professional Career Band, Level 3 of the Management and Professional Staff Career Framework.
For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our
Management and Staff Careers website .
