Chris Freek
Director, Communications & Engagement
Chris leads strategic communications for Finance & Operations across the University of British Columbia. This includes leadership and strategic direction for high-performance teams in communications and organizational positioning, digital strategy and management, and stakeholder engagement and experience.
Known for his warm and collaborative style, Chris helps the VPFO portfolio succeed while strengthening UBC’s brand and reputation. Chris has achieved notable success using his fluency in operations, design, systems, and technology—including multiple national and international awards for his work within the legal, education, health care, technology, and financial sectors.
Chris graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts degree. In addition he holds associate degrees in both Management and Marketing as well as multiple certifications in Conflict Resolution and Communications — including IABC accreditation, PROSCI Change Management Certification, IAP2 certification, and a UBC Sauder Lean Six Sigma Yellow belt.
Contact Information
Finance Leadership Office
Koerner Library 6th Floor
1958 Main Mall
Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z2
Phone: 604 827 0641
Email: Chris.Freek@ubc.ca
Leadership vision
“I am a designer, builder and coach who empowers people to move beyond, to achieve a more impactful future than they could imagine on their own. I use influence, collaboration and my personal investment to be the standard bearer of a unified and integrated UBC.”
Chris Freek
Director, Communications & Engagement
Updates related to VPFO Communications & Engagement
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Read more: Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic closing University Services Building location
Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic closing University Services Building location
The Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic located within the Centre for Occupational Health, Safety and Wellbeing at USB will be phasing out their services for the location. As of June 30, 2025, physiotherapy services will be relocating to the nearby…
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Read more: Understand your safety role at UBC, whether you’re a student, faculty, staff, or volunteer
Understand your safety role at UBC, whether you’re a student, faculty, staff, or volunteer
All members of the UBC community have a role to play in supporting the University’s Safety Accountability structure. Whether you are supervising others, conducting research, providing services, or participating in academic activities, understanding your responsibilities are essential to maintaining a…
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Read more: Joining the conversation at VPFO Day
Joining the conversation at VPFO Day
On May 12, 2025, the VPFO portfolio came together to explore how our values of innovation, unity, and accountability, empower us to shape the future of our portfolio and support UBC. Relive the moments from VPFO Day through our event recordings…