The Ombudsperson leads the Office, which has been in operation for more than 20 years, in a manner that is consistent with the Terms of Reference .
These responsibilities include the facilitation of early resolution of student concerns and complaints through the use of multiple forms of dispute resolution and the investigation of individual and system-wide or systemic issues as well as the analysis of trends in complaints. The Ombudsperson is responsible for issuing an annual report to the University community and making recommendations for addressing systemic or system-wide issues. In addition, the Ombudsperson engages in preventative work through delivering training on effective conflict resolution and fair decision-making and commenting on potential fairness issues that may arise for policies that are in development or under review.
This challenging position will interest a professional with significant years of experience in roles that require exceptional problem-solving skills using a wide variety of conflict resolution techniques in a confidential, impartial and independent environment. Ideally, the successful candidate will have earned a graduate degree in social sciences, education, law or a related field. Demonstration of personal integrity and the capacity to build trust and earn respect in many settings are essential characteristics. In addition, excellent written and verbal skills along with demonstrated capacity to explain and apply the principles of procedural, substantive and relational fairness so as to demonstrate fairness for all concerned is vital.
Cultural fluency and critical thinking along with exceptional interpersonal skills, including diplomacy, empathy, persuasion and sensitivity in all interactions is mandatory. In-depth knowledge of the post-secondary education setting and the policies and services available to students would be useful. Experience supervising professional staff and leading an Office in a way that provides for a collaborative approach while maintaining the highest degree of impartiality and independence is required. A well-developed appreciation for the effective use of technology relative to marketing and complaint handling is also necessary.
The Office of the Ombudsperson at Ryerson University operates independently of the University and all student unions and associations. The Ombudsperson Committee which is composed of representatives from the Continuing Education Students Association at Ryerson (CESAR), the Ryerson Student Union (RSU) and Ryerson University are responsible for hiring the Ombudsperson.
This Office is committed to fostering diversity and welcomes those who contribute to further diversification of its staff including but not limited to women, racial minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities and people of any sexual orientation or gender identity.
“At the intersection of mind and action, Ryerson is on a transformative path to become Canada’s leading comprehensive innovation university. Integral to this path is the placement of equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our institutional culture.”
“Ryerson University welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us to expand our capacity for diversity in the broadest sense. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada, we encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples, Indigenous peoples of North America, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and those who identify as women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.”
More detailed information about Ryerson University can be viewed at: https://www.ryerson.ca/about/
Compensation will be commensurate with experience, relevant academic education and professional qualifications.
Applications from all qualified applicants are welcomed and will be accepted until
5 p.m. E.S.T. on Tuesday, July 27, 2021, via email only at ombudsearch@ryerson.ca
Please be aware that applications will be acknowledged shortly after being received and that only the applicants selected for an interview will be contacted