Signing Authority (Policy)

Topic: Financial and Operations
Approval Authority: Board of Governors
Approval Date: Reviewed by UEC: May 4/2005; FSR: May 24/2005. Approved by Board: June 20, 2005.; Effective, June 20, 2005; Revisions approved by Board February 25, 2025
Effective Date: June 20, 2005
Last Revised: February 25, 2025

1. Pupose

This Policy refers to the authority required to execute documents that may be entered into on behalf of the University. This Policy has associated Procedure and Guidelines.

2. Scope

This Policy shall apply to all operating, capital, ancillary, and research contracts entered into on behalf of York University.

3. Definitions

For the purposes of this Policy:

Contract: Includes, but is not limited to, any written agreement, contract, subcontract, letter of intent, memorandum of understanding, memorandum of agreement, lease, deed, transfer, instrument, assignment, obligation, certificate, order forms or other document, the provisions of which may be binding upon the University and which relate to the day-to-day operations. The entire contract includes initial term and any optional renewal terms.

4. Policy

4.1 The powers to execute a contract, document or any instrument in writing shall be in accordance with the By-Laws of York University.

4.2 The Board of Governors hereby delegates its authority as provided in the By-Law to the extent provided to the President of the University and authorizes the President to further delegate her/his authority to designated officers for the purposes of the ordinary course of business of the University.

4.3 The nature, scope and bounds of delegated authority shall be defined in Guidelines and Procedures on Signing Authority, which shall be issued from time to time by the President.

4.4 All persons exercising delegated authority shall use such authority solely as outlined in this Policy and the Signing Authority Guideline.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

The Vice-President Finance and Administration will be responsible for the implementation of this policy and has the authority to develop procedures to that effect.

6. Review

This policy will be reviewed every 5 years at a minimum. During the review, the policy will remain in full force and effect.

Legislative History: Reviewed by UEC: May 4/2005; FSR: May 24/2005.  Approved by Board: June 20, 2005; Revisions approved by Board: February 25, 2025
Date of Next Review: 2030
Related Policies, Procedures and Guidelines: