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
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Enhancing seismic resilience at UBC
Since 2012, UBC has invested more than $200 million in seismic upgrades to buildings and infrastructure. Read more on the UBC News website.
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UBC Board of Governors approves balanced operating budget for 2025/26
UBC is projecting a balanced financial position as part of its 2025/26 budget, approved by the university’s Board of Governors this week.
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Considering buying Canadian?
With the recent developments regarding Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs, many questions have been raised regarding purchases at UBC. Visit UBC’s Finance portal for more information regarding supporting Canadian suppliers and navigating U.S. tariffs (CWL Required).
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Building the Future of Finance at UBC
Finance Transformation brings new tools, new roles, and a stronger, more connected Finance Community.
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Re-installation of the “Symbols for Education” mural now complete outside Brock Commons South
With Brock Commons South now complete, the Symbols for Education mural is successfully reinstalled. This effort was led by Pam Troyer, Project Manager, and Victor Wong, Project Coordinator, from Facilities.
People of the VPFO
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Esther Li promoted to Senior Financial Processing Specialist in Treasury
Reporting to Chen Shi, Treasury Accounting Manager, Esther will continue to be responsible for the incoming payments while playing a critical role in more complicated bank reconciliations and other banking side responsibilities.
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Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm
Jen Sheel takes pride in what her team does… and it shows. When you meet Jen, one of the first things you see is her dedication to making UBC a place that invites and builds connections. She fiercely believes that…
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Josephine Shen joins the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team as a Financial Analyst
In her new role, Josephine will play a key role in developing the Strategic Initiatives’ multi-year forecasting model and maintaining various financial models (i.e. Contingency and PAEI) at UBC.
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Celebrating UBC VPFO’s long-serving member inductees in 2022
The VPFO team has a number of long service member inductees this year. This is an amazing personal accomplishment for the individuals and a true testament to their devotion to service at UBC.
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Holly Shepherd promoted to Director, Treasury
Holly Shepherd has been promoted to Director, Treasury with overall responsibility for overseeing tax, contracts, leases & licences, housing loans, payment card industry compliance, service levy and Treasury Accounting.