VP Facilities & Operations Leadership Team
Todd Gilchrist, Vice-president (University Services And Finance) And Interim Vice-president (Facilities And Operations)
Todd Gilchrist is a skilled executive with more than 30 years of experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Todd’s current role as Vice-President, University Services and Finance and Interim Vice-President, Facilities and Operations with the University of Alberta includes two university-wide services portfolios.
As an engaged visionary leader Todd inspires his team to realize their abilities and greatness which moves organizations forward. He believes in doing things right and doing the right thing - even if and especially when it is difficult. He leads with a remarkable balance of compassion and accountability, knowing that when staff can bring their whole self to work they can achieve the heights of success - both personally and professionally.
Chief of Staff: Gordon Weighell
After completing his training and certifications to become a commercial pilot, Gordon instead developed a passion for the public sector. He worked for the Government of Alberta in ministries ranging from health to employment, training to workplace standards, for 20 years.
He holds an MBA specializing in Executive Management and Management Consulting. Gordon joined the senior leadership team in 2017.
AVP Asset Management and Operations: James Allen
James brings a depth of leadership and strategic planning experience from serving in the Canadian Army for over 24 years. He has also managed complex portfolios within the Government of Alberta in several senior executive positions.
James has a BBA from CMR Saint-Jean and a MMAS from the School of Advanced Military Studies. He currently chairs the U of A's Safety and Security Committee and is a member of the Public Health Response Team.
AVP Campus Services: Katherine Huising
Katherine joined the Facilities and Operations senior leadership team in April 2017. She leads the team that enhances the campus experience for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Prior to her appointment, Katherine worked with the Government of Alberta, most recently as the Chief of Protocol. She earned a BA degree in History from the U of A and is serving on the Public Health Response Team.
AVP Integrated Planning, Development and Partnerships: Ashley Bhatia
Ashley is a collaborative leader with a background in capital development related to strategic funding partnerships and policy. Prior to joining the Facilities and Operations senior leadership team, Ashley has experience in the public and private sector, most recently in the Government of Alberta in a number of senior leadership and executive roles. With F&O, she leads a team of strategic thinkers and technical experts, who through planning and partnerships, improve the viability and utility of the physical spaces on U of A campuses.
Ashley has a Masters in International Trade from the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, a BA from the University of Alberta, and a BA from the Université de Saint-Boniface (University of Manitoba). She also has a Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching from Royal Roads University.
AVP Support and Recreation Services: Robert Pawliuk
With over 32 years of design, construction, and project management experience, Rob brings a wealth of knowledge from both private and public sectors.
Rob has a BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering from the U of A and spent 16 years in consultation and design in the private engineering sector. During his time at the university, Rob has served on many diverse committees and teams.
AVP Utilities: Mike Kohlenberg
Mike's team operates one of the largest campus district energy systems in North America. He has worked in leadership roles in many different areas across both the private and public sectors. He has experience in the oil and gas industry, utility management, project management and engineering.
He has a BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering from U of S as well as a MSc in Process Control from U of A.