Head of Student Boarding WG1054

Summit Search Group has been retained by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) on the recruitment of their next Head of Student Boarding. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is Canadas oldest ballet company and one of the most respected dance institutions in North America with an international reputation for artistic excellence and community engagement.

On their behalf we are seeking an experienced and compassionate leader to oversee the Student Living Centre and provide a safe inclusive and supportive environment for student boarders aged 1118. Reporting to the Director of Educational Programming this role is responsible for leading all aspects of student boarding operations while supporting the wellbeing development and success of students within the RWB School.

This is a unique opportunity to join a world-renowned organization and play a key role in shaping the student experience within a dynamic high-performance arts environment.

The Opportunity

The Head of Student Boarding is responsible for the overall leadership administration and daily operations of the Student Living Centre. This role oversees a multidisciplinary team and ensures a high standard of care safety and programming for boarding students.

The successful candidate will bring strong leadership experience a passion for working with youth and the ability to balance operational oversight with a student-centered developmental approach.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations

• Lead and manage the Student Boarding team including hiring training coaching and performance management
• Oversee daily operations of the Student Living Centre including facility management and staff scheduling
• Develop and manage the Student Boarding budget in collaboration with Finance
• Ensure alignment with RWB policies procedures and organizational values
• Represent Student Boarding at performances events and internal meetings

Student Care & Wellbeing

• Provide leadership in creating a safe inclusive and supportive environment for all students
• Oversee student supervision wellbeing and daily routines including academics social development and personal responsibilities
• Support student transitions including onboarding and orientation of new boarders
• Develop and implement student life programming and activities
• Lead response to student safety concerns and support crisis management protocols

Student Conduct & Support

• Establish and enforce behavioural expectations in alignment with School policies and codes of conduct
• Address student concerns with appropriate interventions and follow-through
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders on student support including counselling and academic teams
• Liaise with medical professionals to support student health and wellbeing

Administration & Program Management

• Oversee development and maintenance of policies procedures and student life documentation
• Implement systems for student tracking safety protocols and daily operations (e.g. sign-in/out room checks)
• Manage staff scheduling payroll coordination and operational logistics
• Oversee student intake processes and ongoing communication systems
• Build and maintain strong relationships with parents and guardians providing updates on student progress and wellbeing

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Academic Artistic and Student Care teams to ensure a seamless student experience
• Support coordination between programs to enhance student success and engagement
• Ensure appropriate language and cultural supports are available for international students

Qualifications

• Degree in Education Student Affairs Social Work Child Studies or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7 years of leadership experience with a strong track record in people management
• Experience working with youth ideally within a residential or student living environment
• Experience managing budgets and operational programs
• Knowledge of student development intercultural environments and conflict resolution
• First Aid and CPR certification
• Valid Class IV drivers license (or willingness to obtain)
• Clear Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse Registry Check required

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High level of emotional intelligence and discretion
• Strong organizational problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic fast-paced environment
• Student-centered mindset with a passion for mentorship and development

This is a meaningful opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of young performers at one of Canadas most respected arts institutions. The successful candidate will lead a dynamic student living environment supporting the wellbeing growth and success of students while helping to shape the next generation of artists in a supportive and inspiring setting.

For more information or to submit your resume please reach out to Gail Eckert Director at Summit Search Group

Summit Search Group has a strong commitment to Diversity Equality and Inclusion. We strive for continuous development modeling inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias throughout our process.