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
-
Explore the new UBC Finance website and portal built from your feedback
As of January 6, the UBC finance website (finance.ubc.ca) has transitioned into two platforms. The new platforms will improve navigation, information security, and accessibility.
-
Sabrina Lin joins VPFO as Executive Assistant to the VPFO HR Director and Treasurer
Sabrina Lin joins the VPFO Admin team as an Executive Assistant to the VPFO HR Director and Treasurer. Sabrina brings a wealth of experience in project management, event coordination and client service.
-
University cheque mailing resuming as normal starting December 17
Canada Post has announced it is resuming operations on Tuesday, December 17. All cheques produced for students, employees, and suppliers that were held for pickup at UBC during the postal strike will be mailed out with immediate effect.
-
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.
-
Please be aware of a ‘fake taxi’ scam at UBC Vancouver
Campus Security is aware of three incidents in recent days where members of the UBC community have been financially scammed by a “fake taxi”. If you are approached and asked to pay a fare for a taxi ride, please leave…
People of the VPFO
-
Esther Li promoted to Senior Financial Processing Specialist in Treasury
Reporting to Chen Shi, Treasury Accounting Manager, Esther will continue to be responsible for the incoming payments while playing a critical role in more complicated bank reconciliations and other banking side responsibilities.
-
Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm
Jen Sheel takes pride in what her team does… and it shows. When you meet Jen, one of the first things you see is her dedication to making UBC a place that invites and builds connections. She fiercely believes that…
-
Josephine Shen joins the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team as a Financial Analyst
In her new role, Josephine will play a key role in developing the Strategic Initiatives’ multi-year forecasting model and maintaining various financial models (i.e. Contingency and PAEI) at UBC.
-
Celebrating UBC VPFO’s long-serving member inductees in 2022
The VPFO team has a number of long service member inductees this year. This is an amazing personal accomplishment for the individuals and a true testament to their devotion to service at UBC.
-
Holly Shepherd promoted to Director, Treasury
Holly Shepherd has been promoted to Director, Treasury with overall responsibility for overseeing tax, contracts, leases & licences, housing loans, payment card industry compliance, service levy and Treasury Accounting.