Harry Bakker has been appointed as the University of Guelph’s new associate vice-president (physical resources). His appointment begins in June.
As executive director of facilities at the University of Waterloo for the past three years, Bakker has overseen 400 employees and provided strategic oversight on an annual $50-million operating expense budget and $175-million new capital development program.
Earlier, he spent 14 years at Fanshawe College based in London, Ont., as executive director, facilities management and community safety, where he planned and implemented more than $300-million worth of new capital development and space renovations.
“In his previous roles, Bakker has been successful in implementing a number of significant strategic initiatives that have had a positive impact on productivity, service levels and staff satisfaction,” said Don O’Leary, U of G vice-president (finance, administration and risk). “We look forward to having him join our physical resources team.”
Bakker will take over the position from Dan MacLachlan, who is currently serving as interim associate vice-president (physical resources).
“We are extremely grateful to Dan,” said O’Leary. “He has done a fantastic job of stepping into this role and maintaining smooth operations.”
At U of G, Bakker will oversee an 800-acre campus, including 142 buildings. He will manage the University’s land and buildings, capital planning and construction projects, maintenance, custodial services, building systems and central utility plant operations, energy conservation, environmental protection and sustainability initiatives.
“I am excited to be stepping into this role and continuing the University of Guelph’s forward-thinking approach to managing the campus,” said Bakker. “I look forward to working with the physical resources team in providing a contemporary campus environment for our students, faculty, staff and visitors through service excellence and asset stewardship.”
Bakker holds a bachelor of applied science in mechanical engineering, and designations in professional engineering and real property administration.