The Division of Operations, Finance & Support (OF&S) continues to evolve to meet the growing needs of Rice University and support its long-term ambitions. Guided by its strategic focus on operational excellence, customer experience, and community of care, these latest organizational updates are designed to reduce silos, strengthen coordination, and better align teams around shared goals. At their core, these changes reflect a commitment to working more efficiently, collaborating more effectively, and delivering meaningful results for the campus community.
From OIT to Technology Solutions & Services (TSS)
As part of this evolution, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) is transitioning to a new name: Technology Solutions & Services (TSS), led by Terrence Gee, vice president of technology solutions & services and chief information officer.
More than a rebrand, this transition reflects a shift in mindset and operating model. Under Gee’s leadership, TSS is growing into a proactive, strategic partner that works alongside campus stakeholders to anticipate needs and deliver forward-looking solutions.
The transition also brings a stronger emphasis on ownership and outcomes.
“Teams within TSS are focused not only on delivering high-quality services but also on demonstrating measurable impact across the university,” Gee said. “The goal is clear: leverage technology to drive progress and empower students, faculty, and staff in their teaching, learning, and research.”
New Leadership in Facilities, Planning & Capital Construction
OF&S is pleased to announce Brian Lindoerfer as the new associate vice president of facilities, planning & capital construction, beginning April 13.
In this role, Lindoerfer will provide strategic leadership and oversight for campus facilities operations, energy and utilities management, capital planning, capital construction and environmental health and safety initiatives. He will work in close partnership with academic and administrative executives and function as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees’ Buildings and Grounds committee and its associated subcommittees.
“Brian brings extensive experience in facilities, planning, and large-scale construction,” says Kelly Fox, executive vice president for operations, finance and support. “He also has a proven track record of partnering across complex institutions, qualities that will greatly enhance the ambitious work we are already doing here at Rice.”
Refining Operational Excellence & Engagement
As OF&S continues to mature as a division, the Operational Excellence team—led by Michelle Thackray—is sharpening its strategic focus to better serve the enterprise.
As part of this realignment, engagement and communications responsibilities will transition to the Office of the EVP. This shift enhances coordination and ensures more consistent, unified messaging across the division.
“With this transition, the Operational Excellence team can fully dedicate its efforts to advancing high-level strategic initiatives and improving efficiency across university operations,” Thackray said. “By concentrating on enterprise priorities, the team is well-positioned to drive continuous improvement and support the division’s long-term goals.”
By streamlining how work gets done, clarifying roles, and strengthening alignment across teams, OF&S is positioning itself to better support the university and the community it serves. As the division moves forward, its focus remains on building momentum through collaboration, innovation, and delivering exceptional service.