Description:
About Toronto Metropolitan University
At the intersection of mind and action, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is on a transformative path to become Canada’s leading comprehensive innovation university. Integral to this path is the placement of equity, diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our institutional culture. Our current academic plan outlines each as core values and we work to embed them in all that we do.
TMU welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion and will assist us in realizing the benefits of embedding these values into the work at every level and in every unit of the university. In addition, to correct the conditions of disadvantage in employment in Canada and to bring lived experiences to the work, we encourage applications from members of equity deserving groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples in Canada, First Nations Peoples in the United States, racialized people, Black people, persons with disabilities, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. Preference will be given to candidates with lived experiences as people from equity deserving groups, as well as experience working with these communities with which the University works every day. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and we welcome newcomers and immigrants to Canada.
In April 2022, the university announced our new name of Toronto Metropolitan University, which will be implemented in a phased approach. Learn more about our next chapter.
The team
We are a team of human resources experts and innovators who contribute to the achievement of TMU's strategic priorities. We partner with our clients to create and deliver outstanding practical and strategic human resource solutions, processes and services that enhance workplace culture, engagement and inclusion. We have embarked on a journey to reimagine HR, as well as modernize and enhance the employee experience.
The opportunity
TMU is seeking an experienced and strategic Director, Pension and Benefits to lead the administration and management of our defined benefit (DB) pension plan and group benefit programs. This pivotal leadership role involves overseeing the development, implementation, and management of policies and procedures that ensure our pension plans—both registered and non-registered—along with group benefits, are administered efficiently and in strict compliance with legal and contractual obligations.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across Human Resources, Financial Services, General Counsel, Faculty Affairs, and other units, to ensure effective management of the TMU pension plan, along with fostering a forward-thinking and inclusive approach to employee benefits. Additionally, you will cultivate and maintain strong relationships with external advisors, vendors, and consultants, fostering a collaborative environment focused on delivering optimal outcomes for our employees and retirees. If you are a seasoned professional with a passion for pension and benefits management and a commitment to enhancing the employee experience, this opportunity is for you.
While this role reports to the Executive Director, Total Rewards & Wellbeing, there is a dotted line reporting to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on the pension plan financial management, as well as a strong collaboration with our Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).
Other key responsibilities include:
- Managing day-to-day pension and benefits plan administration, including monitoring plan performance, vendor management, contract negotiation, and regulatory compliance.
- Developing and implementing pension and benefits policies, and procedures in accordance with regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and organizational objectives.
- Developing a high-performing Pension & Benefits team, fostering a culture of trust, accountability, collaboration, and results-oriented delivery.
- Developing and executing comprehensive short to long term strategies for the university's benefits programs aligned with the university's objectives and support union collective agreements.
- Leading the design, evaluation, and modification of benefit plans to ensure market competitiveness, cost-effectiveness, meet employee needs, and align with compliance requirements and collective agreements.
- Ensuring that all regulatory requirements related to the pension plan are complied with, including annual actuarial valuations, regulatory filings, cost certificates, plan amendments and member statements.
- Collaborating with internal and external partners to streamline processes and leverage technology, enhancing service delivery efficiency and improving the employee and pensioner experience.
- As a resource for pension & benefit expertise, providing strategic advice, guidance and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders on pension and benefits related developments, best practices, trends and potential issues.
- Collaborating with external advisors and consultants to develop and coordinate materials for internal stakeholder pension committee and the board pension committee, in ensuring pension governance and approvals are obtained as needed.
- Participating in arbitration as related to pension and benefits, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations and university principles.
Leadership Competencies
Acts with Integrity: Demonstrates behaviors aligned with high ethical standards and personal integrity and acts in accordance with TMU values.
Builds Relationships of Trust & Collaboration: Actively builds a culture of trust and fosters meaningful relationships.
Leads Inclusively: Creates an inclusive environment where everyone is respected, recognized, empowered to achieve their potential, and valued for their differences.
Demonstrates Organizational Acumen: Understands and respectfully navigates complex internal and external environments using sound judgment, diplomacy, and tact.
Drives Vision & Results: Creates and implements a vision grounded in sound decision-making to achieve desired outcomes.
Additional details
Position number: 10001407
Reports to Executive Director, Total Rewards & Wellbeing Department, Human Resources
Work Location: Hybrid
Vacancy Type: FTCE (permanent)
Employee Group: MAC
Start Date: ASAP
End Date: N/A
Hours of Work: 36.25
Grade: D62
Salary Scale:$106,214 - $169,666
Hiring salary range: N/A
Application close date: October 16, 2024
Additional Notes:
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- As part of the selection process, candidates may be required to complete an occupational assessment.
- Applications will only be accepted online through Toronto Metropolitan University's career site.
- Toronto Metropolitan University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and aims to ensure that independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity are embedded in all aspects of the university culture.
- We will provide an accessible experience for applicants, students, employees, and members of the Toronto Metropolitan University community. We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the recruitment process. If you have restrictions that need to be accommodated to fully participate in any phase of the recruitment process, please submit your request through the AskHR Webform. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.
The Perks
There is something for everyone! Employees are eligible for many benefits, services and discounts that Toronto Metropolitan University has to offer:
- Mid-year break that provides two weeks of paid time off in addition to your vacation.
- Group benefits including health Ed dental, employee and family assistance program (EFAP) and more!
- Tuition waiver for eligible employees and their spouse and/or dependent(s) and Tuition Rebate for eligible employees.
- TMU Retirement Pension Plan A defined benefit pension plan.
- Access to the Ryerson medical centre directly on campus.
- And many more!