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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Read more: Supply chain impacted due to the state of emergency in BC

Supply chain impacted due to the state of emergency in BC
UBC is working with key internal and external parties to ensure that critical supplies continue to be available to support the campus community. We appreciate your patience as we work through this period of disruption.
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Read more: Avoid slips, trips, and falls this winter with some simple tips

Avoid slips, trips, and falls this winter with some simple tips
Winter is almost here, and with it comes cold weather and a greater risk of slips, trips or falls. Practice safe winter walking to help you stay on your feet this winter, available on the Safety & Risk Services website.
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Read more: Major milestone in the Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility expansion project

Major milestone in the Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility expansion project
The Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility (BRDF) is burning biomass once again! The Energy & Water Services Thermal Operations Team re-lit the biomass gasification system on November 10, 2021, and the BRDF is now producing renewable thermal energy for the Academic…
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Read more: A Common Ground: Arts Student Centre Opens its Doors

A Common Ground: Arts Student Centre Opens its Doors
The Arts Student Centre has officially opened its doors to the UBC community. The three-storey building located on East Mall and Walter Gage Road will be a common meeting ground for Arts students to interact across disciplines, with spaces to…
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Read more: Aligning enhanced safety and reducing risk for the university

Aligning enhanced safety and reducing risk for the university
In alignment with the VPFO and SRS strategic plan, Safety & Risk Services (SRS) is moving to the next step that builds on our strengths and opportunities to continue to align around enhanced safety and reduced risk for faculty, staff,…
People of the VPFO
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Read more: Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
Sam has been a driving force in finding opportunities to build a stronger foundation for our Campus Security teams. His extensive experience in leading projects and teams within Compliance, Security, and Risk Management roles in the public sector will make…
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Read more: Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
In order to enhance their technical expertise in civil engineering, asset stewardship and fleet management, UBC Facilities’ Municipal Services is pleased to welcome two new team members, Fiona Keating, Senior Manager, and Rishi Purohit, Fleet and Asset Manager.
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Read more: Making accountability personal
Making accountability personal
Thomas Straley — with 20 years of experience in Accounts Payable — is one of the lucky people who find their dream job early and build an endlessly rewarding career.
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Read more: Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Since stepping into the Acting role in June 2022, Joanna has played an instrumental in supporting her client areas through a busy quarter-end and the start of the FY23 budget process.
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Read more: Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Mr. Laezza will join us from Murdoch University, Australia, where he is Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for leading the university’s business and finance functions, as well as for the management of its financial and capital resources. Mr. Laezza will…