We acknowledge that Western University is located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak and Chonnonton Nations, on lands connected with the London Township and Sombra Treaties of 1796 and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum. This land continues to be home to diverse Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) whom we recognize as contemporary stewards of the land and vital contributors of our society.

 

As Western University approaches its 150th anniversary in 2028, the institution is focused on advancing a bold strategic vision centred on expanding impact, strengthening community engagement, and responding to the needs of learners in a rapidly changing society. As a globally renowned research-intensive university and founding member of the U15 group of Canadian universities, Western’s strategic priorities emphasize innovation in teaching and learning, workforce relevance, community engagement, and expanding accessible, lifelong learning opportunities across diverse learner pathways.

 

Western Continuing Studies (WCS) plays a central role in these institutional directions. As Western’s continuing education portfolio, WCS connects the University’s educational strengths with emerging workforce, professional, and community learning needs. Through a growing portfolio of continuing professional education (CPE), certificates, diplomas, micro-credentials, and customized learning opportunities, WCS serves working professionals, organizations, alumni, and lifelong learners locally, regionally, and beyond.

Western University invites applications and nominations for the position of Director, Western Continuing Studies.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Ivey Business School Executive Education, the Director will lead Western Continuing Studies through its next phase of strategic growth, portfolio expansion, financial performance, and innovation. This role presents a distinctive opportunity to shape and scale a dynamic lifelong learning enterprise within one of Canada’s most respected universities, supported by Ivey’s globally recognized expertise in executive education. The Director will contribute to positioning Western Continuing Studies among leading providers of continuing and professional education across Canada and beyond.

The Director will drive portfolio growth, program innovation, and demonstrable learner and program impact, identifying emerging opportunities aligned with workforce trends, industry developments, and societal needs. Working across all Faculties, professional schools, and alongside external partners, the Director will expand relevant, high-impact programming aligned with learner demand, Western’s strategic priorities, and the University’s commitment to educational access and community engagement.

This leader will play a pivotal role in strengthening WCS’s market presence, competitive positioning, and sustainable revenue growth, including expansion in the Greater Toronto Area, advancing partnerships with industry and professional sectors, and enhancing Western’s visibility in continuing and professional education. The Director will leverage data, market intelligence, and learner insights to guide strategic decision-making, portfolio optimization, and financial sustainability.

Equally important, the Director will provide leadership to the Western Continuing Studies team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, operational excellence, innovation, and learner-centered excellence. The Director will position WCS as a welcoming educational home for lifelong learners, including alumni and learners across the broad spectrum of communities where Western’s impact is felt locally, nationally, and globally.

The ideal candidate holds an undergraduate degree in a related field and brings significant senior leadership experience in continuing education, executive education, or professional education in a comparable growth-oriented, market-facing environment. The successful candidate will have a track record of driving growth, innovation, and financial performance, strong business and financial acumen, experience leading teams and operations, and the ability to translate market and workforce insights into strategic program development. The Director will possess exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, a strategic and entrepreneurial mindset, and the ability to operate effectively within complex academic and stakeholder environments. A demonstrated commitment to lifelong learning, learner access, and institutional mission will be essential.

Western has partnered with Andrea Patrick and Cora Hui at Odgers for this recruitment. Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online by April 24, 2026. For more information or to submit a nomination, please contact Andrea Patrick or Cora Hui at WCS@odgers.com.

 

Odgers does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for a position.

 

Reason for Posting: Existing Vacancy

 

Hiring Range: $160,000 to $200,000

 

Western invites applications from all qualified individuals. Ivey 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.

 

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process by contacting Odgers at WCS@odgers.com.