Cape Breton University is actively seeking an experienced strategic leader to serve as their next Vice President, Academic (Provost) in a full-time continuous role.
About Cape Breton University
Cape Breton University (CBU) is one of Canada’s youngest and most innovative universities. Committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and thought leadership, CBU strives to create a global academic experience and build a sustainable future for Cape Breton Island. Home to nearly 4,000 students, CBU is dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning. This excellence extends throughout the Institution’s diverse community of valued faculty and staff who relish the idea of helping to create and promote a quality environment at CBU. CBU delivers an authentic multicultural experience to all who become part of its community. Surrounded by pristine natural landscape, vibrant culture and welcoming communities on Canada’s stunning east coast, CBU attracts students from more than 50 countries around the world. CBU prides itself on providing personalized educational opportunities that focus on academics, research, student services, a vibrant campus life and cutting-edge technology.
Cape Breton University is deeply rooted in the Cape Breton community and understands the importance of its operations to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of our island. Our mission is underscored by principles of being both globally focus and locally connected.
Job Summary
The Vice President, Academic (Provost) provides senior academic leadership for CBU faculty and staff, including the development and delivery of innovative academic programming and strategic planning. This position promotes the highest standards of excellence in teaching and research through effective curriculum design, outcomes-based assessment, providing learning resources and by supporting the professional development of faculty and staff.
Reporting directly to the President & Vice Chancellor of CBU, the Vice President leads the academic planning process, including the oversight of School-specific and other unit strategies, the ongoing review and renewal of academic programs and the continued enhancement of the student learning experience. As a member of the University Executive Team and University Leadership Team and ex officio member of the Board of Governors, the position collaborates to plan allocations for budgets, technology and facilities. In addition, the Vice President, Academic (Provost) serves as the lead academic representative to external agencies.
The Vice President leads the generation and allocation of academic budgets in line with University priorities and budgeted funding. Therefore, must work closely with the President and CFO on these matters. Responsible for ensuring that Academic Schools operate within their allocated budgets.
The position oversees the Deans of the Academic Schools and holds responsibility for the Library and Unama’ki College.
About You
As the ideal candidate, you possess a strong hands-on work ethic, strong communication skills, a forward-thinking mindset, strong analytical skills, a passion for building strong relationships and supporting team success.
To qualify, you will need an PhD with demonstrated success in teaching, research, scholarship, public policy, and creative roles. Proven success in managing strategically and leading teams at a Dean level.
Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:
Why CBU?
When you chose a career at CBU, you will have an opportunity to not only thrive professionally, but you will also be exposed to the myriad of cultural landscapes that are found on Cape Breton Island, creating a truly unique style of living. With an excellent benefit package that includes but not limited to: defined benefit pension plan, group insurance, health/dental, wellness and vacation days, along with a highly competitive salary range; CBU’s welcoming environment has made us an employer of choice for many.
To apply for this opportunity, click HERE and upload your cover letter, resume, and references. Criminal Record Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening may be required.
Please upload all documents to Additional Documents if no designated area is listed. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Applications must be received by 11:00PM on May 1st, 2026.
If you would like to receive further information on this opportunity, please contact Terri Lynn Laffin (Terrilynn_laffin@cbu.ca) or Human Resources (HumanResources@cbu.ca).
Cape Breton University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff, our faculty and its scholarship including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply but applications from Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
CBU is committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and applicants are encouraged to self-identity if they are part of a marginalized community, or have experience working with Indigenous communities.
If we contact you for an interview and you are a person with a disability who requires technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance.
Cape Breton University
Human Resources Dept.
HumanResouces@cbu.ca
1250 Grand Lake Road,
Sydney, NS B1M 1A2