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

  • University cheque mailing disrupted due to Canada Post strike

    Canada Post’s operations have shut down as of November 15, due to a national strike. Please expect delays in mail delivery, including cheque delivery for payroll and suppliers.

    Read more: University cheque mailing disrupted due to Canada Post strike
  • Learn more about our Campus Security Road Map

    Campus Security’s roadmap highlights a series of interconnected projects and essential changes within the department’s organization, services, operations, infrastructure, processes, and culture, all aimed at fostering stronger alignment with the community.

    Read more: Learn more about our Campus Security Road Map
  • Stay visible and safe during the fall and winter

    Shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather conditions are common during the fall and winter. Be sure to prioritize safety both on and off the road during these darker months.

    Read more: Stay visible and safe during the fall and winter
  • International Fraud Awareness Week is November 17-23

    See something? Do something. As part of International Fraud Awareness Week, VP Finance & Operations’ Finance & Integrated Services and Enterprise Risk & Assurance (ERA) have partnered to raise awareness about the importance of fraud prevention. Learn more on the…

    Read more: International Fraud Awareness Week is November 17-23
  • Upcoming payroll will be scheduled one day earlier

    UBC is transitioning our banking services to RBC as part of the HSBC Canada sale to RBC. Included in this transition is how employee pay is distributed to employee bank accounts. As a result, the upcoming original UBC pay date…

    Read more: Upcoming payroll will be scheduled one day earlier

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