The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininewuk, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, and Dene, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

UM respects the Treaties that were made on these territories, acknowledges the harms and mistakes of the past and present, and dedicates itself to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of Reconciliation and collaboration.

UM recognizes that this acknowledgment only holds meaning when reflected in the actions taken to address the injustices and barriers that have disproportionally affected Indigenous Peoples and communities, systemically preventing them from accessing and benefitting from education. Grateful for the territories and lands on which the university community learns, conducts research, and engages with external partners, UM is guided by this acknowledgment in carrying out the core work of its mission, the priorities it sets, and the decisions made to move forward as an institution.

The University of Manitoba invites applications, nominations, and expressions of interest for the position of Dean, Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, with the appointment to be effective July 1, 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a Faculty that is a preferred destination for excellence in research, innovation, and teaching. 

The University of Manitoba thrives as a place where challenges are embraced. It is the oldest university in Western Canada celebrating 150 years in 2027. Since 1877, the University’s world-class research and outstanding student experience have made an indelible impact on Manitoba, Canada, and the world. The University offers more than 250 programs - more than any other post-secondary institution in Manitoba. This includes providing 100+ undergraduate and nearly 150 graduate programs to over 30,000 students of which 21.3% are international students representing over 122 countries. The University of Manitoba is a vibrant, diverse, and impactful community of world-class researchers who share their expertise locally, nationally, and internationally. Researchers participate in over 40 research centres and institutes and are engaged with community and industry partners to advance knowledge and address pressing issues.  The University has over 10,000 faculty and staff, and more than 188,000 alumni across Canada and 133 different countries. Contributing $1.7 billion in annual economic activity and attracting 200 million dollars annually in sponsored research income, the University is located on two campuses in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba’s culturally diverse capital area with a population of almost one million. Winnipeg offers a high quality of life with affordable housing, a long heritage of diverse cultural activities, and numerous recreational opportunities.

The Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management at the University of Manitoba is a leader in the promotion of healthy lifestyles and is committed to building healthy communities through the study and practice of physical activity, sport, and leisure. The programs offered by the Faculty include a Bachelor of Kinesiology, Bachelor of Kinesiology – Athletic Therapy, Bachelor of Physical Education, Bachelor of Recreation Management and Community Development, a Master of Science and Master of Arts (Kinesiology and Recreation), and a multi-faculty Ph.D. in Applied Health Sciences.

Classroom lectures, well-equipped labs, and work-integrated learning balance theory with experiential learning. The programs in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management help students to understand and appreciate a holistic approach to health and wellness, including the body’s capacity for movement, the connections between recreation practices and community development, as well as the physical, mental, social, and emotional outcomes of physical activity and leisure.

The Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management is also proud to offer a comprehensive sport and recreation program that serves the University of Manitoba community and beyond. The Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management’s sport and recreation portfolio facilitates  approximately 3 million visits annually, engaging over two-thirds of UM students across both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses year-round. This portfolio includes several key units: Bison Sports, Recreation Services, Mini U and Junior Bisons youth programs, Facilities, and Operations. Together, these units provide diverse opportunities ranging from elite varsity athletics and recreational programming to children’s camps and community outreach. The Faculty employs more than 50 full-time staff and hires over 500 casual employees annually, many of whom are students, making it the largest student employer on campus. The facilities span over 1 million square feet indoors and 34 acres outdoors, including premier venues such as the Active Living Centre, Frank Kennedy Centre, and Max Bell Centre, supporting academic, research, recreational, and competitive needs. With an operating budget of $16 million for 2025-26, these programs and facilities advance student engagement, physical activity, leadership development, and community involvement, contributing to the University’s vibrant and inclusive sport and recreation culture.

Reporting directly to the Provost and Vice-President (Academic), the successful candidate will possess the academic qualifications required to ensure credibility within the Faculty and will have strong achievements in teaching, research, and community engagement. The Dean will have a transparent and collegial style, outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, and will be able to inspire faculty, staff, and students, build inclusive and collaborative work environments, demonstrate financial acumen in managing the Faculty’s resources and academic programs, Bison Sports, Recreation Services, and facility priorities, and be highly engaged with a range of internal and external stakeholders and partners. The Dean will understand current and future issues, trends, and forces that will impact education, including the balance of theory and practice. Experience with fundraising and advancement as well as with administration within a unionized working environment, will be an asset in this role. The Dean must approach their responsibilities in a way that promotes equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility and continues to advance the University’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples.

The University of Manitoba is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from women, racialized persons/persons of colour, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of all sexual orientations and genders, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

The consultants will begin reviewing candidates immediately, with committee consultation beginning in the fall. The search will continue until the position is successfully filled, ideally by July 1, 2026. Applications should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and the names (not letters) of three references (who will not be contacted without the consent of the candidate), and should be submitted in confidence to the University’s executive search consultants:

Laverne Smith & Associates Inc.

UManitobaKinRec@lavernesmith.com

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