President and Vice-Chancellor

About the role

The President and Vice-Chancellor will lead Wilfrid Laurier University, a multi‑campus, student‑centered institution, through a period of strategic growth and transformation. Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Governors, the role shapes the university’s vision, enhances its national and international reputation, and ensures an exceptional experience for students, faculty, staff, and partners.

Key responsibilities

• Articulate and implement a bold, forward‑looking institutional strategy aligned with the Laurier Strategy.
• Provide visionary leadership across academic excellence, research, community engagement, and entrepreneurship.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, academic freedom, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Represent the university externally, strengthening partnerships and raising its profile locally, nationally, and globally.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, Senate, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external stakeholders to drive institutional priorities.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in higher education or a comparable complex organization.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire and manage multi‑campus environments.
• Strong track record of advancing research impact, student success, and community partnerships.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all university activities.

Required skills

• Strategic planning and execution.
• Stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Change management and organizational development.
• Financial stewardship and resource allocation.

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the future of a distinguished Canadian university.
• Supportive governance structure and collaborative senior leadership team.
• Competitive executive compensation package.
• Access to extensive research facilities and vibrant academic community.