President

Established in 1869 and located in Winnipeg, St. Mary’s Academy is rooted in the tradition of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. The school’s mission is to nurture young women in spirit, mind, and body, so that each student reaches her full potential as an individual created in God’s image. As a Catholic school, St. Mary’s Academy participates in the educational mission of the Church and carries out its mission in partnership with the local Church. The school provides a Christ-centered environment and an exemplary educational program framed by the Gospel and the traditions of the Catholic Christian faith.

As a school founded on the tradition of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary, St. Mary’s Academy is defined by a legacy of learning, faith, service, and leadership. It provides exceptional academic, religious, arts, athletic, and extra-curricular programs. Students graduate empowered with a knowledge and awareness of their gifts; they possess a desire for excellence, a sense of social responsibility, and a commitment to action in the service of others, especially marginalized communities and individuals.

It is within this context that St. Mary’s Academy welcomes applications and nominations for the appointment of its next President, commencing summer 2025 or soon after.

The President is the chief executive and oversees all matters concerning the operation and advancement of the Academy. The President inspires and enthusiastically leads the school’s community of over 600 students, faculty and staff to achieve the Academy’s mission and vision. Reporting to the School’s Board of Directors, and working with a dedicated team of Principals, teachers, and staff, the President oversees all functions of the Academy including academics, finance, enrollment, human resources, community relations and represents the school in the Catholic and Winnipeg communities. The President is also the Executive Director of the St. Mary’s Academy Foundation, and actively engages with donors, community partners, and alumnae in furthering the Foundation’s mission of raising and stewarding financial resources to ensure the long-term financial health and sustainability of the School. It is an exciting time at the Academy and the new President, operating from a position of strength, will have the opportunity to envision the next chapter of the history of St. Mary’s Academy. 

As the ideal candidate, you are a seasoned leader who brings a tenure of relevant experience from an institution of similar complexity and size. While leaders from academic institutions or with experience in the academic sphere are preferred, leaders from other types of organizations who demonstrate strong skills aligned with this posting will also be seriously considered. Your leadership style is collaborative, and your experience includes oversight of human resources, supporting collegial and inclusive culture, as well as community engagement activities, fundraising, alumnae engagement, and the development and execution of a renewed and comprehensive strategic plan. Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board of Directors is considered an asset. As a senior leader, you have overseen and managed a complex budget, and bring excellent strategic, organizational and leadership skills. Colleagues describe you as a leader who is passionate and committed to fostering a student-centric academic environment focused on excellence. Your outstanding communications skills will allow you to build relationships across the School, Foundation and city, with relevant academic and community partners, and with the Catholic community. Candidates must be Practicing Catholics who are strong in faith and have a clear understanding and commitment to Catholic education while demonstrating open mindedness and respect for all faiths. Candidates also must hold an undergraduate degree from a recognized university, and a graduate level degree is preferred.

To learn more about this impactful leadership opportunity with St. Mary’s Academy, please submit a comprehensive resume and a cover letter in confidence to Jane Griffith (jane@griffithgroup.ca) and/or Robin Noftall (robin@griffithgroup.ca). Finalist candidates will be asked to submit a letter confirming their activity as a practicing Catholic from their pastoral leader.

St Mary’s Academy is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates who represent the diversity present across Manitoba and Canada. Individuals from equity deserving groups are encouraged to self-disclose. St. Mary’s Academy is an accessible employer committed to providing a barrier free recruitment experience. Please advise Jane Griffith (jane@griffithgroup.ca) should you require any accommodation to participate in the recruitment and/or assessment processes.  

All qualified candidates are welcome to apply; however, priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.