I am pleased to announce that Geoff Frigon will be joining the University of Toronto as the Assistant Vice-President, Spaces & Experiences effective August 4, 2026.
Geoff is currently the Managing Director, Account Executive, CIBC for BGIS in Ottawa. From March 2019 to March 2026, he was with the University of Ottawa, in roles including the Associate Vice-President, Facilities and the Senior Director, Asset Management, Planning and Real Estate. He has also worked for the National Capital Commission and Health Canada.
Mr. Frigon brings extensive experience leading large, complex operations, including oversight of diverse functional teams across facilities, capital projects and service delivery. At the University of Ottawa, he managed projects within operating and capital budgets, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities while maintaining operational discipline. He has also improved performance through organizational restructuring and governance frameworks, including initiatives that delivered operational savings and strengthened accountability and service outcomes.
Geoff has demonstrated strong strategic leadership by developing and executing enterprise-wide plans, including the Campus Master Plan and long-term land-use strategies aligned with academic and student-life priorities. His leadership in complex transformation initiatives and ability to integrate diverse stakeholders positions him to continue to define and execute a clear, mission-aligned vision for Spaces & Experiences.
Geoff offers deep and directly relevant expertise in real estate and development, having overseen the university real estate portfolio and led major initiatives such as an $850M, 3,000-bed student residence development, the largest in Canadian university history. He brings strong capabilities in financial structuring, asset lifecycle management and capital planning, including oversight of $818M in deferred maintenance and renewal strategies. His experience includes complex partnerships, innovative procurement models and negotiated agreements that enhance long-term asset value and institutional competitiveness.
Mr. Frigon is a highly credible institutional representative with significant experience engaging senior leadership, and external stakeholders, including all levels of government. He has led complex community consultation processes that strengthened project outcomes and accelerated approvals and has successfully negotiated lease agreements with major partners. His ability to communicate complex initiatives clearly and build trust across diverse stakeholders reflects strong governance, negotiation and ambassadorial capability.
As the Assistant Vice-President, Spaces & Experiences, Geoff will provide leadership to a portfolio of teams focusing on housing, food services, retail, hospitality and real estate operations, shaping experiences that define campus life. Together, they ensure exceptional service, financial sustainability, and operational excellence, building strong partnerships across the University and beyond to maximize revenue-generating assets.
Ron Saporta, Interim Vice-President Facilities & Real Estate
