University of New Brunswick
Founded in 1785, University of New Brunswick offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in more than 60 disciplines and continuing education in a variety of fields. At UNB, it has a 15:1 student to faculty ratio and its mission is to create the premier university environment for our students, faculty and staff in which to learn, work and live.
At UNB, Facilities Management or Campus Operations plays an integral role in ensuring that the university can carry out its mission effectively. It is our role to provide the university community with an inviting, safe and sustainable environment which supports and enhances an inspiring experience in learning, living, working and research.
This month’s Member spotlight; we got to hear from University of New Brunswick’s – Director of Facilities Management & Campus Development - Saint John Campus, Kevin Simpson, P.Eng., MBA
How many years have you been in this business?
I have been at UNB for over 8 years. Previously, I worked in the private sector as a project engineer and maintenance supervisor before coming to UNB..
Why did you join BOMA?
To be connected with individuals/companies that are within the same field. BOMA provides great networking and also expertise in building management. It’s wonderful to learn from the organization and its members.
What's one thing - either industry-related or not - you learned in the last month?
You certainly can’t always predict the future or for that matter, control it. It’s important that you have an open mind, one that can change easily to ensure that you are leading your team efficiently and effectively.
What educational or business experiences best prepared you for your career?
My engineering degree along with my Masters in Business Administration, obtained at the University of New Brunswick, certainly provided me with a strong foundation to adapt to the ever changing world of campus operations. With the environment changing daily, its important that one can easily shift focus quickly to ensure that your team or business is not left behind.
What advice would you give to professionals coming in to the commercial industry?
Get connected. Join organizations such as BOMA to enhance your network and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are many that might have been challenged with the same issues, therefore, there is no point in reinventing the wheel.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
Find a profession and job that makes you very happy. Your job can be stressful but it’s important to find things within your job that you can lean on during those difficult times. It’s important to have a good work/life balance.
What's your favourite movie and why?
My favourite would have to be the The Green Mile. Just a solid movie!
If you could have dinner with someone famous (dead or alive) who would it be and why?
Wayne Gretzky. I’m a very big sports fan and Wayne Gretzky is certainly my favourite of all time. I would have so many questions that I think I would need multiple dinners
How do you define success?
I think there are many ways to define success, however, in my current role, it’s to provide the university community with a safe and inviting campus. In my opinion, a potential student evaluates their options and are attracted to a particular campus or school due to the degree programs offered or maybe a faculty member that teaches within a particular degree program at that school. Most students will come to campus for a tour to see the spaces and evaluate how they feel within that space. At that point, that is where the role and success of Facilities Management is inherent. Did we make them feel comfortable by their surroundings? That is our role within Facilities Management.