Vice-President, University Relations

Sandra G. Banks, Vice-President, University Relations  

Sandra Banks joined the University of Waterloo as Vice-President, University Relations in April 2015 bringing with her extensive experience across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. At Waterloo, Banks leads the University’s broad range of Marketing, Communications, Government Relations and Community Relations initiatives.

In this role, Banks is committed to building strong internal and external relationships and a positive public profile that supports the University’s ambition to be one of the most innovative universities in the World.

As chief executive officer of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Banks led a three-year strategy of renewal and growth for this prestigious national showcase of world-class agricultural and equine competitions.

Banks spent 15 years at Coca-Cola Canada as vice-president, Public Affairs and Communications and was responsible for the company’s brand communications, stakeholder, media and government relations, corporate social responsibility and internal communications.

Banks also worked in the public sector, serving as assistant deputy minister in the food industry division of Ontario’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in 1996 and 1997, and as press secretary in the Office of the Minister of State for the Canadian Wheat Board in Ottawa.  

Banks has served on a variety of public and private boards and co-chaired the 2014 Toronto Garrison Ball.

A graduate of Carleton University, Banks holds a Bachelor of Arts (Mass Communications).