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.
Chris’ 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