The VP Finance & Operations Portfolio Provides Strategic Leadership and Support for UBC’s Academic Vision through Financial and Operational Management Excellence
The eight units of the VP Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets. We oversee a $2.8 billion budget, a $1.2 billion endowment, and all university facilities. The VPFO also manages the university’s relationships with the UBC Investment Management Trust (IMANT) and UBC Properties Trust. In all the portfolio’s responsibilities, we are committed to the values of accountability and transparency.
News From the VPFO
August 19, 2019
BRDF, UBC’s innovative heat and power facility boosted by federal investment
A $20.4 million expansion of UBC’s innovative Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility (BRDF) will receive up to $7.6 million in support from the federal government’s low-carbon economy fund.
The new Exchange Residence at Gage South & UBC Bus Exchange featured in August issue of Award
Resulting from a partnership between the University of British Columbia and TransLink, the new Exchange Residence at Gage South & UBC Bus Exchange demonstrates how one site can comfortably serve a full range of purposes.
Pearle Lundeen and Stephanie Friesen from Building Operations modernize ageing file-server
This summer, Pearle Lundeen, Functional Analyst from Building Operations, and Arts Co-op and MAS student Stephanie Friesen successfully facilitated in the modernization of UBC Facilities' (Infrastructure Development, Energy & Water Services, and Building Operations) ageing file-server which consisted of 900 user accounts and 6.7 terabytes of information.
IRP hosts first Workday Demonstration for HR and Finance Systems
On July 30, the Integrated Renewal Program (IRP) hosted a major Workday demonstration and live streaming event. Over 800 individuals registered, and a further 300+ joined via livestream, all to get a first-hand view of some of Workday’s features and functionality, and the enhanced user experience derived from implementing the new integrated workplace solution.
Building Operations and Campus Security help UBC Studios update the Vancouver Campus Google Street View
The UBC Vancouver campus' Google Street View has been long outdated, mostly due to the campus not being open to private vehicles. We helped UBC Studios fix that — capturing over 15,000 8K 360 photos in the process. Watch the video and see how its done.
People of the VPFO
August 6, 2019
Get to know Peter Smailes, Vice-President, Finance & Operations
For almost 20 years, Peter has brought innovative leadership to UBC. From his early career on Bay Street to high adventure around the world, Peter is known for his ability to choose smart risk and walk though doors others may miss.
Chantal Bobyn joins Infrastructure Development as Senior Facilities Planner with Facilities Planning
Chantal is a registered Architect (AIBC) with over 10 years of experience working on a variety of projects from high-rise buildings to tenant improvements and renovations.
David Pepin joins Building Operations as Continuous Improvement Project Manager
David has over 15 years of experience working in change management, continuous improvement and Lean Management. He has served several organizations in creating coaching plans, continuous improvement training.
Get to know James Heth, Assistant Treasurer, Contracts and Leases in the Treasury Department
From a distant log cabin on a mountain, James is ready to join the adventure and take on any challenge that Treasury can imagine.
Announcing Nikii Hoglund as Director, Asset Replacement and Improvements in Building Operations
Building Operations is pleased to announce Nikii Hoglund as the successful applicant for Director, Asset Replacement and Improvements position effective July 8, 2019.