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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Buchanan Block C Elevator Modernization begins June 23
The project is estimated to be complete by the end of August 2025. There will be no access to this elevator for the duration of construction. Please use the stairs on the north or south end of Buchanan Block C…
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The HSBC to RBC transition project has now officially concluded
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important transition — especially our partners and business users — for your collaboration, patience, and adaptability throughout the process. With these changes now in place, all UBC HSBC Canada bank accounts have…
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Manage risk and overcome challenges with support from Enterprise Risk & Assurance
May is International Internal Audit Awareness Month! At UBC, the ERA team provides independent, risk-based and objective audit and advisory services. Whether you’re launching a new project, looking to improve a critical process, or implementing a change, ERA can help…