Western University

Western University is a globally recognized, research-intensive institution with global impact. Ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, Western is home to more than 42,000 students and a vibrant international community spanning 134 countries. With more than $315 million in annual research funding and a strong commitment to teaching excellence, Western is shaping the future through innovation, collaboration, and global engagement. Guided by its strategic plan, Towards Western at 150, the University is committed to expanding its international reach, strengthening global partnerships, and advancing inclusive excellence. The University’s Western in the World Global Engagement Plan (2023–2030) sets a bold direction to deepen internationalization efforts and transform global engagement into meaningful impact through international partnerships, research collaboration, student mobility and intercultural learning. In support of these ambitions, Western has established a new Global Engagement unit within the Office of the President and now seeks a strategic relationship-builder for the role of Executive Director, Global Engagement. This is a rare opportunity to lead and shape an institution-wide global engagement mandate at one of Canada’s premier universities – driving meaningful international partnerships and contributing to solutions for complex global challenges. Reporting to the President and Vice-Chancellor and working closely with other key senior academic and administrative leaders across the university, the Executive Director leads the execution and advancement of Western’s global engagement strategy; enables high-impact international partnerships and coordinated global initiatives; and supports institutional engagement that strengthens Western’s global reach, reputation, and influence. This role is central to positioning Western as a globally connected institution-coordinating international engagement across faculties and units, supporting senior leadership delegations abroad, and building relationships with governments, diplomatic representatives, and leading international organizations. The successful candidate is an accomplished administrative leader with significant experience in international relations, global partnerships, and external engagement within a complex organization, ideally in higher education. They bring a deep understanding of the global postsecondary landscape and demonstrated success advising senior leaders and navigating diverse cultural and political environments. Adept at translating global opportunities into institutional impact, they shape direction, align stakeholders, and drive complex initiatives from concept to execution to deliver transformational outcomes. A compelling and persuasive communicator who inspires trust and confidence, they possess sound judgment and a proven capacity for people leadership, alongside strong budget and project management expertise. Western University has partnered with the leadership advisory firm Odgers for this search. Applications are encouraged immediately and ideally by July 27, 2026, at: https://careers.odgers.com/en-ca/31898. For more information or to discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact Julia Robarts and Krutika Hotwani at: westernglobal@odgers.com. This posting is for a newly created position. The expected compensation range is $150,000-$180,000. Western University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.