Overview
Human Resources is engaging in a multiphase initiative to design and implement a strategic talent and performance framework at Waterloo. This framework includes:
- Job architecture
- A modernized talent recruitment platform
- A refreshed performance development program
- A capabilities framework
Supported by Workday, this work reinforces the University’s strategic priorities and commitments outlined in Waterloo at 100. In collaboration with campus partners and external experts, Human Resources is advancing a cohesive approach to talent development that reflects the evolving needs of the workplace.
About the framework
The Strategic Talent and Performance Framework is about helping people develop in their roles and grow their careers at the University of Waterloo. It is a coordinated effort to:
- Clarify roles and responsibilities so it’s easier to understand what is expected in similar jobs
- Support meaningful performance development conversations by improving how we give and receive feedback
- Create learning and development opportunities that align with the skills and strengths we need across the institution
It’s our way of responding to what we’ve heard from the university community - building a more consistent, supportive, and future-ready approach to talent and performance that is employee driven and supported by leadership.
Four major components of the project:
Job Architecture:
Job Architecture is a map for roles at the University. It helps make sense of how jobs are organized - what they do, how they relate to each other, and how employees can grow in their roles over time.
By grouping similar roles into clear job families based on what people do (functions), their level of responsibility, and job titles, we’re creating a more transparent and consistent structure. This grouping makes it easier for employees to:
- Understand where their role fits within the University
- Explore career paths and growth opportunities
- Have more meaningful conversations about development and progression
Behind the scenes, we’ve reviewed and organized over 900 job descriptions in Workday to build this foundation. While much of this work happened in the background, the goal is to create a system that supports our employee’s career journey in a clear and empowering way.
If you have questions or would like additional information on Job Architecture, email jobevaluation@uwaterloo.ca.
Talent Acquisition:
The launch of the Workday Recruiting platform is designed to make hiring smoother and more efficient. It has simplified the recruitment process, enhanced our ability to attract top talent, and created a more seamless experience for candidates. At the same time, it provides stronger support for hiring managers and the Talent Acquisition team, making it easier to find the right people for the right roles.
Visit Careers at Waterloo for more information.
Performance Development:
The Performance Development program is designed to help employees grow with the University of Waterloo and feel engaged and enabled in their work. Supported by Workday, it encourages employee-driven goal-setting, regular check-ins with managers, and ongoing feedback and recognition — not just at year-end. Built on clear job descriptions and guided by the university’s values of thinking differently, acting with purpose, and working together, the program helps employees build the skills and capabilities they need to succeed, with support every step of the way.
The Workday Talent pilot will run during the fall 2025 term, with a full launch planned for spring 2026.
If you have questions or would like additional information on the Talent Development program, email performance.development@uwaterloo.ca.
Capabilities Framework:
The capabilities framework establishes a foundation for identifying the essential capabilities and behaviours required at each job level: all employees, managers and executive leaders. The framework is designed to support workforce readiness for our evolving institutional needs. Learning and development opportunities will be designed to align and guide continuous employee growth and development.
More details, resources and tools will be developed for an estimated roll-out in early 2026.
Introducing the Talent Profile in Workday
Think of it as your internal LinkedIn — a space to showcase you. From job history and education to certifications, languages, and skills, your Talent Profile helps us see the full picture of your professional journey.
Here’s the exciting part: the more we all fill in our skills, the smarter the system gets. Powered by AI, Workday learns from our profiles to suggest relevant skills, surface hidden talents, and spark new career development pathways across the institution.
Update your Talent Profile today — and help shape the future of growth at the University of Waterloo.
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