City : Hamilton

Category : Other

Industry : Education

Employer : McMaster University

The Department of Political Science at McMaster University offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is a research-intensive academic unit committed to excellence in teaching, research, and student support.

The Academic Department Manager I provides operational and administrative leadership for the Department of Political Science. The role ensures the smooth delivery of academic, research, and administrative functions, while supporting the Chair in strategic, financial, HR, and academic planning.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Advises Chair on financial, human resources, curriculum, space, and strategic matters.
• Contributes to departmental and faculty-wide strategic planning (new programs, interdisciplinary initiatives, resource planning).
• Oversees departmental reviews, accreditation, and quality assurance processes (IQAP, CEAB).

Financial Management

• Independently manages multiple budgets (operating, research, TA, scholarships).
• Has signing authority for departmental financial transactions.
• Provides reports to support business plans, agreements, and research contract negotiations.

Human Resources Management

• Manages administrative staff and provides oversight for faculty, staff, and student hiring.
• Leads performance management, conflict resolution, training, succession planning, and compliance with employment agreements.
• Oversees faculty recruitment, tenure and promotion processes, and sessional/graduate student hiring.

   Academic & Research Administration

• Manages scheduling and timetabling for undergraduate/graduate programs.
• Oversees student services, curriculum changes, and program reviews.
• Supports accreditation processes and scholarship/award administration.
• Provides administrative oversight of research activity, including grants, compliance, and research staff hiring. 

Resource & Risk Management

• Oversees space allocation, equipment purchases, and health & safety compliance.
• Participates in crisis-response planning.
• Ensures alignment of departmental operations with university policies.

External Relations & Committees

• Represents the department on university-wide committees.
• Maintains relationships with central offices, external partners, and alumni.
• Participates in system development (e.g., Mosaic testing, admissions, online registration).     

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Experience: 4–6 years of managerial experience

Skills: Strong leadership, strategic planning, financial acumen, HR management, policy interpretation, communication, negotiation, and relationship-building.