OPPORTUNITY PROFILE Director of Professional Practice 1
THE ORGANIZATION THE ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS OF ALBERTA (APEGA) It is vital that professionals attain, maintain and continuously advance the highest level of efficiency, productivity and ethical conduct possible. Now more than ever, professionals need to do what they can to stay competitive while still practicing in the best interest of the Alberta public. For Engineers and Geoscientists, this includes being licensed with The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA). Licensure with APEGA is, in fact, a mandatory requirement for Professional Engineers and Geoscientists who practice in Alberta. A similar mandatory requirement also exists for companies that employ Professional Engineers and Geoscientsts, they must be licensed as Permit Holders with APEGA. Since 1920, APEGA has been a vibrant and progressive self-governing association fulfilling the mandate given to it by The Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act. APEGA registers; sets practice standards and determines disciplinary actions when necessary for members and permit holders. The designations P.Eng., P.Geo., P.Geol., P.Geoph. and Professional Licensee, and Permit to Practice in the case of a company, assure that legal, academic and experience requirements to practice have been met. They also signify adherence to the high standards and ethics of the professions. Only those individuals licensed by APEGA can practice independently or use titles relating to these professions in Alberta. APEGA s ongoing commitment to protecting the public interest through regulating the practice of the professions is evident in their robust regulatory activities, including: Registering and licensing qualified members and permit holders Establishing and enforcing practice standards Administering a complaint, discipline and appeal process Requiring continuing professional development across the membership Reviewing member and corporate practices Preventing those not licensed from practicing or using titles To deliver this commitment on behalf of Members, an elected Council of 16 Professional Members, plus three public representatives appointed by the Province, are responsible for directing the affairs of the Association, supported by the staff in Edmonton and Calgary. APEGA maintains a head office in Edmonton and an administrative office in Calgary, as well as 10 Member branches: Calgary, Central Alberta, Edmonton, Fort McMurray, Lakeland, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Peace River, Vermilion River and Yellowhead. To learn more, visit: www.apega.ca 2
THE OPPORTUNITY DIRECTOR OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE Reporting to the Registrar, the Director of Professional Practice directs the operation of the Professional Practice Department including the planning, coordination, implementation and evaluation of activities associated with establishing, enforcing and advising on standards of practice for the professions of engineering and geoscience across the province of Alberta. This position assures that a high quality of ethical and professional practice is maintained across the professions through administration and oversight of the following core functions as well as engagement with APEGA s statutory Practice Review Board (PRB). Practice Standards and Guidelines Practice Reviews Continuing Professional Development (CPD) The Professional Practice portfolio provides input and assurance to APEGA s CEO and Registrar as well as Council that the applicable expectations as set out in the Engineering and Geoscience Professions (EGP) Act and the General Regulation are being met. The Professional Practice portfolio is a targeted for growth over the next five years as APEGA enhances its oversight of the professions through increased levels of practice reviews, enhanced practice standards and adjustments to the CPD program. With this projected growth the Director of Professional Practice will be instrumental in ensuring an appropriate organizational structure and effectively facilitating the changes required to deliver on the strategic goals of the department. Key Roles & Responsibilities Ensures the department is a source of advice and information regarding the professional and ethical aspects of the practice of the engineering and geoscience professions. Directs and administers the functions of the Practice Review Board, Practice Standards Committee, and Environment Committee. Develops and maintains professional practice standards and guidelines for the professions. Participates in, or facilitates comments on, the development and revision of applicable codes, standards, and regulations by other regulators. Facilitates and reports on professional practice review programs regarding both individual members and permit holders. Facilitates and reports on inquiries/audit of a general nature into the practice of the professions. Administers and reports on the CPD program. Facilitates effective practice resumption processes. Develops programs for the recruitment, orientation and management of the department's staff, PRB (and subcommittee) members and chairs. Provides professional practice and ethical advice to professional members and members of the public. 3
THE PERSON Qualifications Professional Engineer, Geoscientist or eligible for professional membership in APEGA. 15 to 25 years of experience in the broad area of the engineering and/or geoscience fields. Demonstrated progressive leadership experience managing diverse teams. Prior experience in a regulated industry, working as a regulator or in a government agency would be considered an asset. Knowledge of regulatory processes and legislation is considered an asset. Experience with volunteer management is considered an asset. Proven ability to collaborate with multiple, diverse stakeholders, volunteers and build and maintain strong relationships; ability to maintain credibility with stakeholder groups. Knowledge, Skills & Attributes Knowledge: Awareness of self-regulating professions and regulatory environments. Thorough knowledge of EGP Act, Regulations and Bylaws. Well-grounded in business planning and financial management. Demonstrated experience with working with Boards and Committees. Sound working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Skills: Shows a strong commitment and focus to delivering exceptional and professional customer service. Possesses the skills and knowledge to function as a strong and effective leader. Sound decision making skills. Practical and innovative problem solving skills. Conflict resolution skills. High attention to detail and accuracy. Excellent communication skills: both verbal and written. Abilities: Effectively communicate the mission and vision of the association, serve as a role model and create and foster a culture of integrity throughout the association. Ability to understand the direction/objectives of the association and align individual/departmental objectives accordingly. Demonstrated ability to effectively lead, manage and coach a team of professional members and support staff. Demonstrated professionalism, both in demeanour and appearance. 4
Ability to manage change and transition; knows how to influence and enable others. Ability to make logical decisions that enhance the performance of the department. Ability to work with diverse groups of people. Strong ability to build professional and productive relationships with colleagues, clients and stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to clearly communicate project ideas and process concepts. Ability to prioritize work and multi-task. Ability to self-motivate and motivate others. Ability to apply fairness and impartiality in day-to-day responsibilities. Proven ability to effectively work independently and in a team setting. Demonstrated ability to work with confidential information in a professional manner. COMPENSATION A competitive compensation package will be provided including an attractive base salary and excellent benefits. Further details will be discussed in a personal interview. FOR INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Elizabeth Hurley, Partner or Samantha Chiu, Search Associate Davies Park 1505 Scotia 2 10060 Jasper Avenue Edmonton, AB T5J 3R8 Phone: 780-420-9900 Email: Edmonton@daviespark.com 5