After working for Service New Brunswick since 2008, James Culligan was appointed vice-president of finance and administration at St. Thomas University. He starts his new position on March 1 and will oversee long-term solutions for STU’s operational deficit.
“I’ve done a lot of research on St. Thomas through the whole interview process, so I know what’s making up that deficit,” he said. “Can I come in on day one and erase it? Probably not, but I do have some thoughts on where St. Thomas can look to better their financial future.”
Culligan was born and raised in New Brunswick and majored in business administration at the University of New Brunswick. Before joining SNB, he worked for Irving Transportation Services. There, he learned about management from his mentors.
Once he made the switch to SNB, he held many roles that included accounting, budgeting and forecasting.
“I looked at that role as a way to help all the [New] Brunswickers achieve the goals of the province.”
In later years, his career expanded to administration, as well as finance. He took more senior positions, becoming the executive director of finance and administration for six years.
“I honed my skills on being a team player – making both those friendships and connections that could move Service New Brunswick or a project forward without any roadblocks.”
He thinks his experience as executive director at SNB will be helpful for this position since it requires communicating with STU’s board of governors, administration, faculty, staff and students.
“I’m also looking forward to working with a wide variety of individuals … towards a common vision for the university and its future.”
Culligan found out about the vacant position when he was contacted by STU while he was working on another project.
The former vice-president of finance and administration, Lily Fraser, retired in December and comptroller, Reg Gallant, filled in for the time being.
“I know [Gallant] has been with St. Thomas for a very long stretch so he knows the ins and outs,” said Culligan. “I’m sure that I’ll be able to learn from him.”
He said he hopes to make a positive difference at STU. He knows the university prides itself on having a low ratio of student to faculty and wants to keep it that way.
“I’m very pleased and excited to be joining St Thomas’ community. It’s a very exciting environment in which to work.”
