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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Metro Vancouver’s Watering Restrictions come into effect on May 1, 2022
Stage one of Metro Vancouver’s Lawn Watering Regulations will be in effect from May 1, 2022 to October 15, 2022, as outlined in Metro Vancouver’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan. This year, both residential and non-residential watering is only allowed once a…
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UBC Road Closure on May 1 due to the BMO Vancouver Marathon
The BMO Vancouver Marathon is coming through UBC – road closures will occur on Sunday, May 1st from 8:00am – 12:00pm.
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Clayton Mullen joins Facilities as Senior Manager of Thermal Utilities in Energy & Water Services
As Senior Manager of Thermal Utilities, Clayton will bring thermal utility managerial and operational experience. He will be leading the Thermal Utilities team to improve practices and processes.
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UBC Flags lowered for National Day of Mourning
Flags on both UBC campuses are to be lowered in recognition of the National Day of Mourning, to remember lives lost in the workplace and resolve to prevent future tragedies.
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UBC Okanagan Skeena Residence becomes the first Passive House-certified student residence in Canada
UBC Okanagan Skeena Residence has successfully earned its Passive House Certification, making it the first student residence in Canada and second in North America to receive this certification.
People of the VPFO
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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.
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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…
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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.
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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.
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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,…