Leadership Spotlight

Imogen Coe
Dean, Faculty of Science 

Imogen Coe joined Ryerson on August 1, 2012 to take on the key position of dean in the newly established Faculty of Science. As dean, Imogen is responsible for providing academic and administrative leadership to the faculty to ensure that high quality and relevant education consistent with Ryerson’s mandate and mission is provided in all programs and service areas. Imogen also plays an integral role in assisting the university advance its strategic plan.     

Imogen is a great example of an effective leader. To Imogen, effective leadership involves building strong, competent teams and empowering people to make decisions. In order to do this, a leader must provide the support and resources necessary. “An important leadership quality that Imogen Coe displays as she leads the faculty is humility. Imogen always gives credit where it is due,” says one team member. Imogen fosters a horizontal system rather than a hierarchical one, and is respectful of everyone’s contributions and comfort level.

Taking responsibility as a team leader is also crucial. “As a leader, you have the ultimate authority and therefore, the ultimate responsibility,” explains Imogen. She believes in empowering her team to make decisions, while keeping in mind that the leader is the representative and should back them up in the decisions they make. It is important to “have trust in your employees and for your employees to have trust in you,” adds Imogen. “It’s also important to admit when you make a mistake and that you take full responsibility for it."

She believes that one of the most important aspects of leadership is continuously engaging in dialogue with the people you are representing and ensuring that you know them well. Being able to assist with advancing their aspirations as much as you can, as well as having a sense of trust in their work and abilities are all important components to her leadership approach. “Imogen always pushes her team to think and dream big,” describes one team member.

For Imogen, one of the most exciting aspects of being at Ryerson is the energy and possibilities. As the Faculty of Science is in its infancy, there is significant opportunity to grow, create and build.

If you know of a great Ryerson leader who is an example to others and deserves a little recognition contact your Human Resources Management Consultant.