Reporting to the Vice-Dean (Research), QHS, the Director of Research Operations, leads the development and implementation of various research initiatives of strategic importance for QHS. As part of the Vice-Dean (Research) (VDR) leadership team, the Director of Research Operations provides high-level strategic and operational support and has accountability for overseeing faculty-wide initiatives led by the VDR. Responsibilities include developing strategies and implementation plans and working with project participants to execute projects in a timely manner. This position is responsible for policy development, strategic planning, and execution, and providing guidance to the VDR and other senior management on issues of critical importance to the VDR portfolio and the research mission of QHS and the University.

The Director of Research Operations frequently interacts with senior administrators across the University to facilitate strong communication between and amongst various offices. As a supervisor and leader within the VDR, the Director of Research Operations prioritizes tasks and provides mentorship. This is a demanding position and has a critical impact on senior decision-making and the overall effectiveness of the VDR portfolio.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Provides expert advice to the VDR and senior administrators in the development and implementation of strategies and activities to achieve strategic objectives
• Leads the implementation and on-going execution of high priority faculty-wide initiatives led by the VDR, managing, and executing projects, setting clear timelines and expectations for project goals and outcomes
• Ensures effective communications and decision-making between the Office of the VDR and internal and external stakeholders and other executive offices. Initiates and maintains good working relationships with senior-level individuals and officials on behalf of the VDR
• Executes high-profile programs and provides senior level support for the reviews of research policies, structures, and strategies
• Oversee and support all Tri-Council and other funding statistical, operational, and financial reporting, and any compliance audits
• Directs the VDR website and social media platforms. Identifies new communications tools/opportunities and develops and implements these initiatives to strengthen the research brand
• Prepares correspondence, reports, policy documents and presentations for the Vice-Dean (Research). Undertakes research and analysis as required in support of position papers, presentations, and communications
• In close consultation with VDR, develops strong relationships with other Queen’s University departments and faculties, Institute partner organizations, funders and participants and promote collaboration and a “network way of working” between all network staff, researchers, and students
• Promotes a team culture of inclusion and a sense of ownership among all Health Sciences researchers, partners, and participants, with a commitment to the university’s equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives designed to foster an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming work environment for individuals with diverse backgrounds and identities
• Plans, prioritizes, and manages the work of employees, providing strategic and tactical advice, guidance, and coaching. Identifies the need for staff resources, participates on staffing committees, and makes effective recommendations regarding employee selection
• Manages performance by establishing performance standards, reviewing, and evaluating performance and conducting formal performance reviews on an ongoing basis
• Assesses staff training and development needs and ensures that employees receive training required to improve and sustain successful performance
• Investigates, addresses, and resolves employee/labour relations issues, including disciplinary matters. Makes effective recommendations on matters involving possible discipline, discharge and probationary termination