Senior Director, Strategic Operations & Process Transformation

About the role

Simon Fraser University’s Finance team is seeking a senior leader to drive strategic operations and process transformation across its financial portfolio. The role will focus on improving service delivery, strengthening internal controls, and supporting the university’s evolving academic and research priorities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of process improvement initiatives across procurement, payables, payroll, and research administration.
• Collaborate with faculties and departments to align financial operations with institutional goals.
• Develop and maintain policies, internal controls, and risk‑management frameworks.
• Provide strategic financial analysis and support decision‑making for senior leadership.
• Oversee operational planning, budgeting, and resource allocation for the finance portfolio.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance or a related field.
• CPA designation.
• At least seven years of experience in administrative, personnel, financial and operations management, preferably in a university setting.
• Strong knowledge of university policies, collective agreements, and financial operations including procurement, payables, payroll and research administration.
• Proven ability to research, analyze and respond to complex, sensitive situations independently.

Required skills

• CPA certification
• Financial operations expertise

What we offer

• 4 weeks of vacation (prorated for the first year)
• Hybrid‑work program for eligible positions
• Employer‑paid defined benefit pension plan
• On‑campus tuition waiver for employees and immediate family
• Off‑campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds