Jennifer Burns was named the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at The University of British Columbia on August 1, 2015. As CIO, Jennifer leads the information technology function at the institution to ensure the alignment between the IT delivery system and the faculties, research, and administrative units across campus. She is responsible for the UBC Information Technology department’s efforts to maintain an advanced IT platform for education, research, and services.
An experienced leader within higher education and with an extensive background in client services and management, Jennifer maintains the strategic oversight of campus-wide IT services in a highly client-centric environment serving 70,000 users, ensuring a focus on client experience and institutional value.
Along with overseeing the strategic vision and leadership for the university’s vast information technology needs, Jennifer also represents UBC in British Columbia’s IT leadership community, as well as those across Canada and internationally, comprised of executive leaders in Higher Education and partner organizations world-wide.
Areas of Responsibilities
IT Strategy and Planning
Primary owner of the IT Strategic Plan which outlines initiatives across campus to align with the university’s vision
IT Governance
Works with Senior Management Team to ensure that demand and priorities of IT investment align with campus IT needs.
Financial Planning
The Finance Team supports the CIO with budgeting, financial management, and review services to coincide with the operational budget.
IT Service Management
Implementing a multi-year transformation of campus-wide IT services to support the university’s core functions, with a focus on internal communications and change management.
Research Information Technologies
Supports the delivery of research computing technology for the research community on campus.
Online Security
The CIO provides online security oversight for sensitive information, providing a structured approach to information risk management.
