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

  • A warm thank you for an impressive 2024

    As we approach the holiday season, I want to take a moment to express my sincere thanks for your incredible efforts and reflect on what the VPFO team has achieved in 2024.

    Read more: A warm thank you for an impressive 2024
  • Why your net pay may be lower in January

    Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI) deductions have a yearly maximum earnings limit. Once these limits are reached during the calendar year, the deductions stop for the rest of the calendar year. Learn more on the Finance website.

    Read more: Why your net pay may be lower in January
  • Metro Vancouver water crews conducting planned maintenance

    Metro Vancouver water crews are working within the City of Vancouver December 3–5, which may cause cloudy water. The water is still safe for consumption and use.

    Read more: Metro Vancouver water crews conducting planned maintenance
  • 2024 tax information and what to expect for 2025

    2024 T4 and T4A tax slips will be available on or before February 28, 2025. A Workday Announcement (shared on the home page of your Workday account) will advise you when they are available for you to download. More information…

    Read more: 2024 tax information and what to expect for 2025
  • Fixing campus infrastructure breaks, spills, and leaks

    Addressing leaks is vital to maintaining campus infrastructure and supporting the VPFO’s campus excellence and sustainability goals. The UBC Facilities team has shown their dedication, expertise, and quick-thinking while responding to leaks over the past few weeks.

    Read more: Fixing campus infrastructure breaks, spills, and leaks

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