Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio


The nine divisions of the VPFO are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety and risk management for our university community.

We oversee a $3.98 billion budget, a $3.38 billion endowment, and all facilities on both campuses, as well as managing the university’s relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust. In all the portfolio’s responsibilities, we are committed to the values of innovation, unity and accountability.

VPFO Strategic Plan 2024–2027

Having a strategic plan gives us a clear path, keeping everyone on the same page. Learn more about where we’re going next and how we plan to get there.

News from the VPFO

  • VPFO Monday Update – June 9, 2025

    The VPFO Update is a weekly snapshot that captures important university updates, work across VPFO departments, and relevant resources. Sent on June 9, 2025.

    Read more: VPFO Monday Update – June 9, 2025
  • Do you know the signs and symptoms of heat stress?

    Get ready for rising temperatures, and learn how to identify signs and symptoms, the risks related to heat-related illnesses and how to protect yourself by completing the Heat Stress Awareness course on the WPL website. When a worker is hot…

    Read more: Do you know the signs and symptoms of heat stress?
  • Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic closing University Services Building location

    The Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic located within the Centre for Occupational Health, Safety and Wellbeing at USB will be phasing out their services for the location. As of June 30, 2025, physiotherapy services will be relocating to the nearby…

    Read more: Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic closing University Services Building location
  • Understand your safety role at UBC, whether you’re a student, faculty, staff, or volunteer

    All members of the UBC community have a role to play in supporting the University’s Safety Accountability structure. Whether you are supervising others, conducting research, providing services, or participating in academic activities, understanding your responsibilities are essential to maintaining a…

    Read more: Understand your safety role at UBC, whether you’re a student, faculty, staff, or volunteer
  • Joining the conversation at VPFO Day

    On May 12, 2025, the VPFO portfolio came together to explore how our values of innovation, unity, and accountability, empower us to shape the future of our portfolio and support UBC. Relive the moments from VPFO Day through our event recordings…

    Read more: Joining the conversation at VPFO Day

People of the VPFO

  • Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years

    To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sustainability Coordinator program, Campus & Community Planning spoke to Erin Kastner, Geospatial Information Manager with Energy & Water Services, on her commitment to sustainability at UBC.

    Read more: Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
  • Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations

    Philip Beck is the successful candidate for the new Soft Landscape head position that was introduced to support Chris Longford, head of the Soft Landscape team. Chris and Phil will work closely together to manage a growing team of over…

    Read more: Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
  • Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations

    In this new role, Kayna will be working closely with the Architectural Trades Team to gain a fulsome understanding of architectural maintenance considerations to provide a better balance of the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders within UBC.

    Read more: Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations
  • Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager

    Holly is joining the Treasury group as the university’s new Tax Manager, supporting the community with advising for tax-related matters, as well as general oversight of UBC’s tax strategies.

    Read more: Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager
  • Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis

    A UBC Alumna, Sarah will partner with departments across the university to assist and monitor the main drivers of revenue and expenses at UBC. She will also develop and evaluate strategic options and alternatives on financial decisions that impact the university,…

    Read more: Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis