Royal Roads University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Royal Roads University has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, and executive leadership.

Driven by a commitment to applied research, Royal Roads University fosters innovative learning environments and contributes significantly to its academic community and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Royal Roads University

  • Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Lisa Yaremcio
  • President & Vice Chancellor - Phillip Steenkamp
  • Chief Information Officer - Don Ostergard
  • Acting Chief Information Officer - James Hood
  • Lisa Yaremcio - Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Lisa Yaremcio, the Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Royal Roads University, oversees the institution's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Yaremcio manages all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial planning, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical leadership position involves developing financial strategies that support the university's academic mission and long-term growth objectives. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works closely with other senior leaders to optimize resource utilization and identify opportunities for financial efficiency. Lisa Yaremcio's oversight extends to financial reporting, risk management, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations, thereby safeguarding the university's assets and supporting its operational integrity.

    Phillip Steenkamp - President & Vice Chancellor

    Phillip Steenkamp, the President & Vice Chancellor at Royal Roads University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Steenkamp guides the university's vision, fostering an environment of academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. This paramount role involves overseeing all academic and administrative functions, ensuring the university fulfills its mandate as an applied research institution. The President & Vice Chancellor represents Royal Roads University externally, building partnerships and advancing its reputation nationally and internationally. Phillip Steenkamp's leadership drives institutional development, promotes a culture of learning, and ensures the university's strategic objectives are met, positioning it for continued success in higher education.

    Don Ostergard - Chief Information Officer

    Don Ostergard, the Chief Information Officer at Royal Roads University, directs the university's technology strategy and infrastructure. Ostergard oversees the development and implementation of digital solutions that support academic and administrative operations across the institution. This leadership role involves managing IT services, ensuring cybersecurity, and driving technological innovation to enhance the learning and research experience for students and faculty. By optimizing the university's technological resources, Don Ostergard ensures operational efficiency and supports the strategic goals of Royal Roads University. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to all aspects of information technology, from network management to the deployment of new educational platforms, directly impacting the university's ability to adapt to evolving digital landscapes and maintain a competitive edge in higher education.

    James Hood - Acting Chief Information Officer

    James Hood, the Acting Chief Information Officer at Royal Roads University, provides interim leadership for the institution's information technology operations. Hood manages the day-to-day IT functions, ensuring the stability and reliability of systems critical to university operations. This role involves coordinating IT support, overseeing technology projects, and maintaining essential digital infrastructure. The Acting Chief Information Officer works to bridge any gaps in technology leadership, ensuring continuity and progress in the university's digital initiatives. James Hood's responsibilities include supporting the strategic direction of IT services while a permanent Chief Information Officer is appointed, focusing on maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational excellence. This leadership ensures that Royal Roads University's technological backbone remains robust and responsive to the needs of its academic community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Royal Roads University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Royal Roads University?
    Royal Roads University is led by Lisa Yaremcio (Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Phillip Steenkamp (President & Vice Chancellor) and Don Ostergard (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Royal Roads University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Royal Roads University includes leaders such as Lisa Yaremcio (Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Phillip Steenkamp (President & Vice Chancellor), Don Ostergard (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Royal Roads University have?
    Royal Roads University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Royal Roads University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Royal Roads University includes roles such as Office of The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President & Vice Chancellor, Chief Information Officer, Acting Chief Information Officer.