V.P. Finance and Operations

Shyam Patel

Shyam Patel

Hey McGillians,

After serving as the SSMU Funding Coordinator last year, it is my utmost pleasure and honour to be this year’s Vice-President Finance & Operations. Although it may sound cliché, the most fulfilling experiences are encountered outside of the classroom, when students are able to apply knowledge and integrate their ideas to a more realistic setting. I hope, over the course of my term, that the SSMU can provide students an opportunity to become more engaged in providing these essential skill sets that are essential in creating proactive student thinkers and leaders.

Here are some ‘fun’ facts about me:
- It is my third year being a vegetarian
- I can rock a suit like no other
- Born and raised in Montréal

What are my priorities for the year?
- Rock and roll at Council (literally)
- Be “titled” the best dressed executive
- Not have a nervous breakdown
- Put funding for student groups at the forefront (you come first); ensuring that there are enough funds available for the diverse activities and events planned by student groups that rely on the SSMU’s support
- Get ready for the Gerts renovations happening over the summer of 2012
- Assist the Mini Courses team in creating a new marketing strategy
- Create an ethical investment plan and integrate socially responsible investing
- Ensure the SSMU clubs receive support for completing their year-end club audits by working with them at the beginning of the fiscal year
- Increase student interaction with the portfolio by making my committees more active; creating a new communication strategy for the student body to understand the SSMU’s budget and financial integrity

Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Let no man pull you low enough to hate him.” Regardless of the various political differences, occasional arguments, and petty quarrels, the passion that we each put into our respective responsibilities is innumerable and, in the end, that makes this process more enriching.

If you have any questions, concerns, or just want to chat, drop by the SSMU office or send me an e-mail at fops@ssmu.mcgill.ca.

You are also welcome to drop by the office during my office hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m or by appointment.

Looking forward to meeting you,

Shyam Patel

The Vice-President Finance & Operations (VP FOPS) is the chief financial officer of the Society. This individual overseeas the Gerts & Mini Courses operations, in addition to setting forth the SSMU's annual budget and providing the Legislative Council presentations on revisions of the budget. Furthermore, this VP closely works with the six Executives, Clubs, Services, and student groups on budgeting, financial planning, and funding.

Other Executive Members