With the retirement of Elaine Goldie, the University of Manitoba’s current vice-president (external), the search is on for her replacement.

As head of all external relations of the U of M, Goldie is responsible for building relationships between the university and a variety of communities, including governments, business and industry partners, foundations, the media, alumni, students and staff.

“Elaine has been a treasure for the university and for all those who are lucky to count her among their friends or colleagues,” said U of M president David Barnard.

U of M spokesperson John Danakas said the vice-president (external) plays a critical role in partnership building for the university. He also said that the vice-president (external) works to enhance the image and reputation of the university and in attracting private and government funding.

The position requires working with the president to plan and implement short and long term goals in the areas of public affairs, alumni relations and government relations. They also work on developing fundraising strategies to bring revenues to enhance academic and research activities.

“I think the role of the vice-president external is to build and lead a strong team of professionals to support the external relations division mandate ‘to enhance the image and reputation of the University and contribute to its financial well being,’” said Goldie of her position.

“On a daily basis I work with individuals, both internally and externally, who care deeply about the University of Manitoba and who give time, expertise and financial resources to assist the University achieve its mission.”

The job opening is currently posted on the job search website Workoplis.com, in the Winnipeg Free Press and on the website for Morgan Leadership Search, an executive search firm that assists institutions find qualified candidates to fill senior administrative positions.

“A senior administrator position at the vice president level,certainly, and at the presidential level, normally there’s a national search, and assisting with the search normally there’s a firm with expertise in identifying appropriate candidates,” explained Danakas.

According to the job description posted on Workopolis.com, the ideal candidate would be an exceptional strategic and innovative community leader who also demonstrates engaging workplace team leadership. The posting states that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, although Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.