UC Santa Barbara Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

UC Santa Barbara has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, UC Santa Barbara is dedicated to fostering a vibrant research environment and providing comprehensive graduate and undergraduate programs, shaping future leaders and innovators.

Leadership Roles at UC Santa Barbara

  • Chief Financial Officer - Eric Sonquist
  • Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer - Kerry Bierman
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor - Jennifer Moss
  • Science Communication Club Co-Founder & President - Melody Pederson
  • President - Maryn Hoffman
  • President, Second-Year Economics & Accounting Major - Shane Sato
  • President - Jasmin Lin
  • Chief of Staff - Eric Rennie
  • Chief Technology Officer, Presidents Office - Julianna Flores
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer - Joe Sabado
  • Eric Sonquist - Chief Financial Officer

    Eric Sonquist, the Chief Financial Officer at UC Santa Barbara, oversees all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Sonquist manages the university's budget, investments, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support UC Santa Barbara's academic and research objectives, as well as its long-term growth. By guiding financial policy, Eric Sonquist ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and optimizes the allocation of financial resources across all university divisions. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership is essential for maintaining the financial health of the institution and enabling its continued pursuit of excellence in education and research.
    Eric Sonquist

    Kerry Bierman - Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer

    Kerry Bierman, the Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer at UC Santa Barbara, provides critical financial oversight and strategic leadership during a transitional period. Bierman manages the university's comprehensive financial portfolio, including budgeting, financial planning, and resource management, ensuring operational continuity and fiscal integrity. This executive role involves guiding financial policies and procedures to support UC Santa Barbara's academic and research missions effectively. By overseeing financial services, Kerry Bierman ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to advance the institution's goals. The Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer's guidance is instrumental in maintaining financial stability and supporting the university's commitment to excellence.

    Jennifer Moss - Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor

    Jennifer Moss, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor at UC Santa Barbara, leads critical financial and administrative functions. Moss directs the strategic management of the university's financial resources, ensuring fiscal health and operational efficiency across administrative services. This dual role involves overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and the implementation of policies that support UC Santa Barbara's academic and research endeavors. By guiding administrative operations, Jennifer Moss ensures that support services are robust and effectively aligned with institutional objectives. The Interim Chief Financial Officer's leadership is essential for maintaining financial discipline and advancing the university's strategic priorities.

    Melody Pederson - Science Communication Club Co-Founder & President

    Melody Pederson, the Science Communication Club Co-Founder & President at UC Santa Barbara, champions effective science communication and engagement. Pederson leads initiatives to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding, fostering dialogue and knowledge sharing. This role involves organizing events, workshops, and outreach programs designed to enhance scientific literacy among students and the wider community. By developing innovative communication strategies, Melody Pederson promotes a deeper appreciation for scientific discovery and its societal impact. The President's dedication cultivates a vibrant environment for students interested in science communication, supporting UC Santa Barbara's commitment to broader societal engagement.

    Maryn Hoffman - President

    Maryn Hoffman, the President at UC Santa Barbara, provides leadership and strategic direction for key university initiatives. Hoffman oversees critical projects aimed at enhancing student experience and academic programs, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This executive role involves collaborating with various departments to drive progress and foster a dynamic campus environment. By championing student success, Maryn Hoffman contributes to the university's mission of academic excellence and innovation. The President's leadership is vital for advancing UC Santa Barbara's objectives and strengthening its position as a leading research institution.

    Shane Sato - President, Second-Year Economics & Accounting Major

    Shane Sato, the President, Second-Year Economics & Accounting Major at UC Santa Barbara, leads student-focused initiatives and represents student interests. Sato directs efforts to enhance the academic and extracurricular experience for undergraduate students, particularly those in economics and accounting. This role involves advocating for student needs and fostering a collaborative environment within the student body. By organizing campus events and programs, Shane Sato promotes student engagement and development. The President's commitment supports UC Santa Barbara's dedication to providing a comprehensive and enriching educational journey for all students.

    Jasmin Lin - President

    Jasmin Lin, the President at UC Santa Barbara, guides strategic priorities and fosters institutional growth. Lin oversees key programs designed to advance the university's academic and research missions, ensuring operational excellence. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts across diverse departments to achieve collective objectives. By driving innovation, Jasmin Lin contributes to UC Santa Barbara's reputation as a premier center for learning and discovery. The President's strategic vision is essential for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and reinforcing the university's commitment to its students and faculty.

    Eric Rennie - Chief of Staff

    Eric Rennie, the Chief of Staff at UC Santa Barbara, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across administrative functions. Rennie manages key projects that enhance institutional effectiveness, ensuring alignment with the university's overarching mission. This leadership role involves coordinating efforts between various departments to streamline processes and optimize resource allocation. By fostering collaboration, Eric Rennie supports the seamless execution of university-wide programs and policies. The Chief of Staff ensures that administrative operations effectively support the academic and research endeavors of the institution, contributing to UC Santa Barbara's standing as a premier research university.

    Julianna Flores - Chief Technology Officer, Presidents Office

    Julianna Flores, the Chief Technology Officer, Presidents Office at UC Santa Barbara, drives technological innovation and digital transformation initiatives. Flores directs the strategic implementation of advanced technologies to enhance academic, research, and administrative operations. This leadership position involves overseeing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and the development of digital solutions that support the university's mission. By championing new technological approaches, Julianna Flores ensures UC Santa Barbara remains at the forefront of digital advancements in higher education. The Chief Technology Officer's expertise is vital for modernizing systems and creating a robust technological environment that empowers faculty, staff, and students.

    Joe Sabado - Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer

    Joe Sabado, the Deputy Chief Information Officer & Chief Information Officer at UC Santa Barbara, spearheads the university's information technology strategy and operations. Sabado directs the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring secure and efficient access to digital resources for the entire campus community. This leadership position involves overseeing all aspects of information technology, from network management to data security and user support, directly impacting academic and research capabilities. By driving technological advancements, Joe Sabado ensures UC Santa Barbara maintains a competitive edge in digital innovation. The Chief Information Officer's vision is crucial for supporting the university's mission through cutting-edge technology solutions.
    Joe Sabado

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding UC Santa Barbara Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads UC Santa Barbara?
    UC Santa Barbara is led by Eric Sonquist (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kerry Bierman (Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer) and Jennifer Moss (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor).
    Who is part of UC Santa Barbara’s executive team?
    The executive team of UC Santa Barbara includes leaders such as Eric Sonquist (Chief Financial Officer), Kerry Bierman (Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer), Jennifer Moss (Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does UC Santa Barbara have?
    UC Santa Barbara has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in UC Santa Barbara’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of UC Santa Barbara includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer & Office of The For Administrative Services Vice Chancellor, Science Communication Club Co-Founder & President, President.