Vice-President, Students

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the world’s leading research universities – an institution inspiring people, ideas, and actions for a better world. With two main campuses (Vancouver and the Okanagan), more than 73,000 students, 20,000 faculty and staff, and a balanced annual budget over $4 billion, UBC is an institution of remarkable breadth and depth that is distinguished by its world-class research and societal impact.

UBC’s commitment to fostering an outstanding student experience and vibrant learning community is articulated in both the institution’s Strategic Directions 2025-2030 and its recently launched Student Strategic Plan 2026-2029. UBC also is the largest provider of student housing in Canada, with accommodation for more than 16,000 students across the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses.

UBC welcomes applications and nominations for the appointment of the Vice President, Students, commencing Spring/Summer 2027.

Reporting to the President and Vice-Chancellor, the Vice President, Students (VPS) serves as the institutional leader in the areas of student housing and community services, student health and wellbeing, athletics and recreation, and career development on both UBC campuses. As a member of the President’s Executive Team, the VPS provides cohesive, strategic leadership, ensuring a unified and coordinated student‑centred service approach delivered through nine teams led by seasoned senior leaders. The VPS leads and cultivates institutional structures and programs to ensure UBC provides an exceptional student experience; where all students achieve their full potential, contribute to a civil and sustainable society, have access to enhanced student learning opportunities, and are challenged to reach their full potential through an environment that is student-centred, that fosters collaboration across student-facing services, and enables all students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

Applications are sought from executive leaders who have a substantial, successful, and proven track record leading a complex and diverse students’ portfolio in a large, research based academic institution, experience that preferably spans a multi campus environment is a strong asset. Experience ideally includes the development of university-wide policies, short- and long-term operational plans, financial acumen and budgetary accountability, leadership best practices, and the creation of new campus initiatives. Your current department is known to be innovative, student-focused, inclusive and genuinely interested in working with, and supporting, students’ well-being. Candidates must hold an undergraduate and preferably a graduate degree from a recognized institution, and be resilient, passionate, supportive, and outcomes-oriented.

To learn more about this impactful leadership opportunity with the University of British Columbia, please submit a comprehensive resume along with a cover letter in confidence to Jane Griffith (jane@griffithgroup.ca) and/or Caroline McLean (caroline@griffithgroup.ca)

Salary and Compensation Package: In accordance with BC’s Pay Transparency Act, the position has an expected base salary range of $325,000 - $350,000. To read about UBC’s benefits package, including the Prescribed Interest Rate Loan (PIRL) program, please visit: https://hr.ubc.ca/working-ubc

At UBC, we believe that a diverse workforce contributes to the pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning. We encourage applications from marginalized groups based on the grounds enumerated under the B.C. Human Rights Code. All applicants will be asked to complete a confidential diversity survey. If you have any accommodation or accessibility needs during the job application process, please contact the Centre for Workplace Accessibility at workplace.accessibility@ubc.ca.  

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. We thank all applicants for their interest in this position. Please note that we will only be in contact with those individuals moving forward with our client.

Use of AI: Griffith Group Executive Search does not use artificial intelligence to screen, assess, or select applicants for a position.

Reason for posting: Existing Vacancy