Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio
We are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety, risk management, and assurance across our university community.
The Vice-President Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio provides strategic stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, and leads safety, risk management, and assurance across the university. Guided by the values of innovation, unity, and accountability in the VPFO Strategic Plan and in alignment with the UBC Strategic Plan, the portfolio oversees a budget of over $4 billion, and all facilities across UBC Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The portfolio also manages key relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust and is responsible for strategic development and management of UBC’s real estate assets to support the long-term benefit of the university community.
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
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Read more: A look back on communications in 2025
A look back on communications in 2025
From launching new websites to sharing stories about our people, our work and even a raccoon rescue, the Communications & Engagement team kept the VPFO informed, engaged, and entertained in 2025.
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Read more: Celebrating our achievements: 2025 reflections from John Metras
Celebrating our achievements: 2025 reflections from John Metras
As we close out 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an extraordinary year—one filled with growth, challenges, and remarkable achievements. Your dedication and professionalism have strengthened UBC in countless ways, and I am…
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Read more: Interim leadership announcement for VPFO HR
Interim leadership announcement for VPFO HR
To provide senior leadership and support within VPFO HR, I’m pleased to share that Penny Penner has accepted a one-year secondment to the role of Director, HR, effective January 26, 2026, through January 26, 2027.
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Read more: Holiday safety & security tips from UBC Campus Security
Holiday safety & security tips from UBC Campus Security
Before you head off to enjoy time with loved ones, please take a few moments to help keep our campus secure and yourself safe during the holiday closure.
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Read more: 2026 payroll calendar now available
2026 payroll calendar now available
The 2026 payroll calendar is now available in the UBC Finance Portal. View more important payroll dates on the Your Pay & Taxes page.
People of the VPFO
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Read more: Katherine Du joins as HR Coordinator, VPFO
Katherine Du joins as HR Coordinator, VPFO
We are pleased to welcome Katherine Du to the VPFO as an HR Coordinator, effective August 24, 2026. Katherine brings a strong background in human resources administration from her role as an HR Assistant with UBC’s School of Population and…
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Read more: Chris Baber joins as Director, Energy & Water Services
Chris Baber joins as Director, Energy & Water Services
We are pleased to announce that Chris Baber, P.Eng. will be joining the UBC Facilities team as the new Director, Energy & Water Services (EWS) starting on August 10. Chris is taking over the EWS leadership role from Siu Tse who will be…
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Read more: Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development
Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development
We are pleased to welcome Anna Panzo as the new Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development in Facilities, effective August 3, 2026. Anna brings a thoughtful, systems‑oriented approach to her work, with experience building operational infrastructure, managing complex workflows, and…
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Read more: Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team
Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team
We are pleased to welcome Alison Mitchell to the Financial Reporting team as a Financial Analyst, starting July 20. Alison brings several years of experience in financial statement analysis, internal controls, and audit, including over four years with MNP, where…
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Read more: David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO
David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO
We are pleased to welcome David Sandoe as the new Senior HR Manager, VPFO, effective July 27, 2026. David brings nearly nine years of human resources leadership experience from the VP Students portfolio, where he developed strong, trusted relationships with…