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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Active, intentional and ongoing learning for EDI
Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) aren’t milestones — they’re the fundamental components required to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace at UBC. It is hard work that takes active, intentional, and ongoing learning (and unlearning).
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Bold new plans unveiled for UBCO Downtown
Recently published photos and a video show how UBCO Downtown will weave excellence in research and teaching into the cultural, economic and social fabric of Kelowna’s downtown core.
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Announcing the search for a new Vice-President, Finance & Operations
President Santa Ono has launched a search for a new Vice-President, Finance & Operations, and is seeking your views on the qualities you’d like to see in this appointment
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Craig Bissell joins Facilities in Infrastructure Development as Project Manager
In his new role, Craig will work with clients, staff, consultants, and contractors to monitor all work, and manage funds and schedules required for the development and use of the University’s facilities.
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Increase in CRA Prescribed Interest Rate effective July 1, 2022
The CRA Prescribed Interest Rate will increase to 2% effective July 1, 2022. This is the interest rate used to calculate taxable benefits for employees from interest-free and low-interest loans, which will have an effect on future loans made under…
People of the VPFO
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Darren Wong promoted to Project Manager, Project Services with Infrastructure Development
Darren Wong joined UBC in 1998 as a project designer, and has been with Project Services since 2011 as an Associate Project Manager. Over the years, Darren’s portfolio continues to grow, working on various renovations, public art, and accessibility-related projects.
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Aziz Kara joins the Comptroller team as a Portfolio Finance Director, DAE, External Relations and Governance
Aziz is a Certified Professional Accountant who brings 25 years of progressive experience in Healthcare.
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Sandy Liu joins the Comptoller team as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis Operational Excellence
Sandy will be working closely with the Budgeting & Reporting team in support of continuous improvement within Financial Reporting and Financial Planning & Analysis.
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Stephen Li joins Facilites, Building Operations as Mechanical Engineer
Stephen is a Professional Mechanical Engineer and LEED Green Associate with over ten years’ experience in Metro Vancouver’s building consulting industry.
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Raffaela Mendel joins Treasury Team as a Senior Treasury Analyst
Raffaela will support the building and refinement of the long-term corporate financial model, along with providing analytical support for other strategic initiatives across campus.