Exemplifying Leadership in Building Operations: Manjit Sound

UBC is one of the world’s leading research institutions, recognized internationally as a global centre for teaching and learning, and chosen by students and faculty from across Canada and around the world as an academic destination. But there is a very significant dedicated team who are supporting this destination every day — who maintain the physical and financial assets of the organization and nurture the operations that are essential to UBC’s academic mission and vision. The staff of the VPFO are emblematic of the university’s motto Tuum Est — it is yours — as they build and maintain a better UBC each and every day through their dedication and service.

This year several members of the VPFO team were recognized in particular for their outstanding contribution to the organization through the President’s Staff Awards. Manjit Sound, a Head Service Worker in the Custodial Services unit, was singled out for his ability to foster positive work environments and experiences, and the admirable leadership he demonstrates in his work.

In a typical day in Custodial Services, Manjit and his team are depended upon by building administrators, researchers, faculty, staff, students, visitors, and contractors to solve problems and keep many teaching and learning spaces at UBC in pristine shape. Manjit is dedicated to finding creative solutions to workplace challenges, and brings together staff members to get the job done safely, efficiently and cheerfully. He was nominated for the award by Nicolas Banquero, a clerk in Building Operations who formerly served as an evening custodian on Manjit’s team.

“Manjit’s supervision is superb and unparalleled,” says Nick. “His has a gift of understanding and patience, and his services drove me to excel and encouraged me to get where I am now. I believe his leadership has the same impact on my fellow custodians, and the university as a whole. This is a classic example of a ‘ripple effect’— great things come from small beginnings.”

Manjit, who has worked at UBC for seven years, leads a team of 36 employees on a daily basis in addition to dealing with client requests and feedback. “To make a great team you have to establish good relationships with each of your employees, foster teamwork, respect each other’s culture, ideas, and values, and celebrate successes and failures together,” says Manjit. “A great leader is someone who leads by example, has empathy towards their team, knows how to be humble, and is a clear communicator.”

Manjit joins 3 other VPFO coworkers who were recognized with Presidential awards.  Read their story on the VPFO website.


UBC’s VPFO: enabling excellence in learning and research

The VPFO is responsible for stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, including all facilities as well as the university budget and endowment. The services provided by the 1200+ individuals who report to the portfolio enable UBC’s excellence in learning and research.

Read more about the VPFO and how we are focused on enabling excellence in learning research at UBC at vpfo.ubc.ca/strategy.