Q&A: CFO Sean O’Neil Provides Updates on Executive Residence and Wyly Hall Renovations, and Michigan Ross Los Angeles

Over the past year, construction has been underway on two important Michigan Ross projects. The first is a major renovation of the Executive Learning and Conference Center, also known as the Executive Residence, and Wyly Hall. The second is a new Michigan Ross campus located in downtown Los Angeles.

Chief Financial Officer Sean O’Neil shares updates on the progress of both projects.

What construction/renovations have taken place in LA?

Construction is moving right along at the Michigan Ross Los Angeles campus, and there’s a real sense of excitement as the space comes together. Each day, approximately 25 people are on-site working to turn the vision into reality. The major groundwork, such as electrical and plumbing, is complete. As the walls go up and the final layouts are completed, we can finally start to see what the space will actually look and feel like.

Approximately when will Michigan Ross Los Angeles be completed?

Construction on Ross LA is on track to be completed in May. 

What is Michigan Ross doing to advertise the Ross LA campus and prepare for its grand opening?

The Ross Marketing and Communications team kicked off an advertising campaign last month, featuring eye-catching billboards, video screens, and digital ads across the Los Angeles area. Additionally, Marketing and Communications is collaborating with Ross Operations to develop custom artwork and installations, designed to create an exciting and innovative learning environment.

On top of that, Aramark, our on-site hospitality and sales partner, is working hard to build connections in LA. They’re reaching out directly to local businesses and organizations that align with the Ross mission; attending LA-based networking events, industry meetups, and community forums; and introducing the campus through friendly conversations and relationship-building.

How far along are the Executive Learning and Conference Center renovations?

Renovations to the Executive Learning and Conference Center are about 50% complete. Progress has been steady, with around 100 workers on-site each day, including carpenters, electricians, plumbers, painters, and more, all working together to bring the renovation to life.

Much of the structural work is now in place. Workers have framed the walls, and the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are nearly complete. Drywall installation is about to begin, and flooring work will kick off in March.

One of the most dramatic transformations is happening in the Executive Dining Room. As the renovation continues, the dining room will showcase one of the most significant visual changes, with colors and furniture inspired by its new name, Azure. The color blue is frequently used in business language to symbolize creativity, innovation, and new opportunities. For instance, “blue sky ideas” refers to imaginative brainstorming, “out of the blue” describes unexpected insights, and “blue oceans” represent unexplored markets. Fun fact: Azure was the original shade of blue chosen for U-M’s colors.

When the renovations for the Executive Learning and Conference Center are completed, what may become of the State Street Campus?

The State Street Campus offers significant benefits for us, including additional workspaces and meeting spaces. However, it also creates additional costs. As we approach the end of our lease, we’ll take a close look at the pros and cons to determine if we can retain the space.