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 supplier tax forms for 2024

    UBC mails out a copy of the tax forms (T4A and T5) every year by early February. Suppliers can also download tax forms directly from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website.

    Read more: UBC supplier tax forms for 2024
  • Masks required in health care facilities

    As of January 6, medical mask-wearing is required in all health care facilities in British Columbia where active patient care is being provided. 

    Read more: Masks required in health care facilities
  • HSBC Global Disbursements transitions to RBC International Pay

    As part of the HSBC-RBC transition, UBC is transitioning to RBC’s International Pay on January 17, 2025.  Please note there is a difference in the level of supported currencies between RBC’s International Pay and the previous platform HSBC Global Disbursement.

    Read more: HSBC Global Disbursements transitions to RBC International Pay
  • Find the room you need with the new Find a Space tool!

    The updated Find a Space tool on the Learning Spaces website is now live and ready for use! This upgraded tool provides advanced search options for buildings, classrooms, and spaces related to teaching and learning.

    Read more: Find the room you need with the new Find a Space tool!
  • UBC Alert testing on January 17 — are you in the loop?

    UBC Alert will be sending out a test notification to UBC Vancouver and Okanagan students, faculty, and staff via a phone call and text message on Friday, January 17, 2025. Make sure your mobile number is up to date on Workday.

    Read more: UBC Alert testing on January 17 — are you in the loop?

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