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

  • UBC breaks ground on $23 million renewable energy hub

    A new $23 million renewable energy hub will transform an entire city block at the University of British Columbia into a smart energy district, including the province’s first-ever hydrogen refuelling station for light- and heavy-duty vehicles. The energy hub will…

    Read more: UBC breaks ground on $23 million renewable energy hub
  • First Nations Longhouse Expansion

    A development permit application has been received for a one-storey 168 sq. m addition to the First Nations Longhouse. The addition will make use of the existing exposed post and beam log structure at the east side of the building.…

    Read more: First Nations Longhouse Expansion
  • Update on our strategic plan

    In November, I sent an update that highlighted our plan to begin a process of transformational change within the VPFO, following our strategic plan’s focus on renewal and optimization. As we start our new fiscal year, I want to share a…

    Read more: Update on our strategic plan
  • Dawn Irmscher joins UBC as Director of Payroll

    Dawn brings a wealth of experience in finance, operations, technical, and systems implementation to the university, and most recently served as the Director of Finance for the Sooke School District in Victoria, BC.

    Read more: Dawn Irmscher joins UBC as Director of Payroll
  • UBC’s budget for 2021/22 set to bolster EDI, expand student supports, and further the university’s impact

    The UBC Board of Governors has approved the budget for 2021/22, setting spending priorities for the year ahead. In addition to the ongoing recovery from COVID-19, UBC is committed to investing in our students, furthering our academic mandate, and promoting…

    Read more: UBC’s budget for 2021/22 set to bolster EDI, expand student supports, and further the university’s impact

People of the VPFO

  • 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners

    The UBC Facilities Staff Excellence Award Program provides recognition and rewards to staff who have demonstrated excellence consistently in the performance of their work and service to the university. This year, Facilities received over 60 nominations. Congratulations to our 2022…

    Read more: 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners
  • Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022

    Please join UBC Finance in congratulating Wesam Mostadi, Accounts Payable Team Lead in the VP Finance & Operations, and Anas Qartoumeh, Finance Manager in VP Research and Innovation (VPRI) Portfolio in UBC Okanagan on passing their 2022 Common Final Exam…

    Read more: Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022
  • 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…

    Read more: Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
  • 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.

    Read more: Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
  • 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.

    Read more: Making accountability personal