Principal-Dean Search

An exciting opportunity exists for an inclusive, faith-based leader to assume the role of Principal-Dean at a leading theological institution in Southern Ontario. Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Governors, the Principal-Dean is the chief executive and academic officer of Martin Luther University College (Luther) and carries out all administrative and academic duties mandated by the Board. The Principal-Dean is also a member of faculty and Chair of the University College Senate, which has authority on academic matters. The Principal-Dean serves as the chief voice and interpreter of Martin Luther University College to its constituencies and takes leadership in obtaining support for the University College from all possible sources. The Principal-Dean will work with the Board, faculty, staff, administration, students, and the broader community to lead strategic and operational planning and development initiatives that advance Luther’s mission and vision, respect its history and traditions, guide the University College forward sustainably, and promote the reputation and unique offerings of Martin Luther University College. The Principal-Dean will have the theological competency to articulate, affirm, and advance the essential character of Luther, especially with regards to its commitment to doing public theology. The Principal-Dean’s priorities will align with the four strategic goals that guide Martin Luther University College’s institutional mission.

As the ideal candidate, you have a creative, entrepreneurial and expansive approach to leadership and theological education; a willingness and demonstrated capability to implement the Strategic Plan 2019-2024 and lead the vision for Luther beyond 2024; to inspire others through effective communication, and the wisdom and acumen to act as chief spokesperson for the University College; and the demonstrated ability to serve a diverse, multifaith student body, faculty and staff. You offer a passion for education and ingenuity in resource development and leadership in student recruitment. Your willingness to support the institution and its faculty in developing, expanding, and disseminating research is complemented by your ability to identify new strategic partnerships, while building and maintaining existing strategic partnerships. You have a PhD, preferably in theology, or a PhD in a related field with a MA in theology or equivalent and demonstrated successful administrative leadership experience. Active participation in a Christian tradition required, with a commitment to public theology and an ability to communicate it to various public audiences. Active membership in the Lutheran church or a full-communion partner is preferred.

We invite qualified candidates to consider this opportunity to become a part of the Martin Luther University College community, which has been a theological leader with a long-term vision of promoting and enhancing the expression of faith in a pluralistic society. Starting as a seminary with four students in 1911, its community grew to found Wilfrid Laurier University, and was instrumental in the establishment of the University of Waterloo. Martin Luther University College hosts a multifaith community that strives to express Christian values in a Lutheran setting. Recognizing that the integration of knowledge, skills, faith and spirituality is a lifelong endeavour, Luther provides formative and integrative educational opportunities for over 450 full-time and part-time undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate students. As a part of its commitment to public theology, Luther works with partners toward the common good, listening to and walking alongside the marginalized in the face of global and local challenges. In so doing, the theoretical and practical is integrated with a sense of responsibility to a variety of public audiences. The Luther community is mindful that public theology as a work in process is prudent in its claims but bold in its hope.

The university college will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation because of a disability or for any other reason during the interview process, please contact KBRS.

If you’re interested in this opportunity, contact Amorell Saunders N’Daw at asaundersndaw@kbrs.ca or Janet Rose at jrose@kbrs.ca or submit your application online.