Chief Technology Officer

About the job

Western University is located on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lunaapéewak and Chonnonton peoples, 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 Western recognizes as contemporary stewards of the land and vital contributors of our society.

Ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide, Western University is Canada’s third largest research-intensive university, and is a founding member of the U15 group of Canada’s distinguished research universities. Since its first graduating class in 1883, Western University has become a vibrant centre of learning, attracting students with broad worldviews seeking to study, engage, and lead. As Western looks towards its 150th anniversary in 2028, the University is poised for even greater impact, with a focus on educating, supporting, and encouraging leaders who think and act boldly in response to the grand challenges of our times.

Guided by a shared belief that information technology can fundamentally transform and enhance teaching, learning and research, Western seeks a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to develop, shape, and implement the institution's technology strategy in alignment with the academic mission. From driving system renewal to integrating the digital learning environment effectively, the CTO will be instrumental in modernizing IT infrastructure and improving the overall student experience. They will work closely with the Chief AI Officer to explore opportunities for integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into academic programs and administrative functions. Most importantly, they will be a champion for the academic community, ensuring that technology solutions are aligned with its needs and priorities. Reporting to the Provost & Vice-President (Academic), and leading the Western Technology Services team towards service excellence, the CTO collaborates with all members of the Western community to support and enhance the technological capabilities of the institution, guiding the University to maintain a competitive edge in scholarship, business practices, teaching and learning.

The ideal candidate brings a proven ability to collaboratively develop a future vision of information technology goals and needs and to champion this vision throughout the institution by building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders and partners. They will be an effective communicator and leader who understands and can leverage technology to facilitate scholarship, enrich the student experience, and advance Western’s institutional goals. A visionary mindset with a passion for leveraging technology to advance the mission of A U15 institution and experience driving digital transformation initiatives in complex organizations is crucial. A proven track record of successful collaboration in a research-intensive and/or academic environment will be considered a strong asset. An advanced degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Information Technology is an asset.

Western has partnered with Anthony Batchelor and Andrea Patrick at Odgers Berndtson for this recruitment. Applications are encouraged immediately and should be submitted online by May 20, 2024 at https://careers.odgersberndtson.com/en-ca/29193.

For more information, please contact Margaret Vanwyck of Odgers Berndtson at margaret.vanwyck@odgersberndtson.com.

Western 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 Berndtson. In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and Permanent Residents will be given priority.


Learn more and Apply