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 Canada’s 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 11–18. 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 driver’s 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 Canada’s 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, Gail.Eckert@summitsearchgroup.com
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.
Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Winnipeg, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits
Gail Eckert
Job ID
City
- Winnipeg, MB
Remuneration
Competitive Salary + benefits 