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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Regular testing and maintenance lead to quick action in an emergency
Fire alarms are the first line of defence against the effects of fire, providing early warning to occupants and enabling swift action to mitigate property damage. Thank you to all our teams and crews for the swift response and all…
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Visit our VPFO booths at UBC’s Welcome Back BBQ
Campus Security and Emergency Management from Safety & Risk Services, and Procurement Programs from Finance & Integrated Services will all have a booth at the UBC Welcome Back Staff and Faculty BBQ on September 11. Stop by, come say hello…
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Brock Commons South opens to welcome its first cohort of students
With construction now complete for Brock Commons South, UBC expands its Vancouver campus with the new residence. We extend our gratitude to all our teams who contributed in making this project a reality. The new facility serves not only as…
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Hailey Maxwell steps into new role as Director, Emergency Management & Continuity Planning
Starting September 3, Hailey Maxwell will be stepping into her new role as Director, Emergency Management & Continuity Planning. In this new role, Hailey will also be joining the Safety & Risk Services leadership team.
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Safety Awareness Week is September 9–13, 2024
September 9–13 is Safety Awareness Week. Let’s start the year off right by learning how to keep yourself and the UBC community safe and secure on campus.
People of the VPFO
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Lubna Shawwa joins Operational Excellence as Continuous Improvement Program Manager
Leveraging her robust experience in continuous improvement and problem solving, in addition to her passion for driving efficiency and collaboration, Lubna will play a key role in enhancing and delivering continuous improvement projects across UBC.
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Cristine Estrada joins UBC’s Financial Operations as Procurement Sourcing Manager
As Procurement Sourcing Manager, Cristine will play a vital role in leading the Procurement Sourcing team to support our community in meeting their needs through the competitive bidding process, leveraging Bonfire and Workday processes.
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James Woo promoted to Project Manager in Facilities’ Infrastructure Development
Since joining Project Services in March 2020, James has continually built his expertise on UBC’s high standards and technical guidelines while building trusting relationships with UBC clients and stakeholders.
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Polina Sefin joins as Service Centre Coordinator within Customer Services & Informatics, Facilities
When dealing with inquiries and supply chain-related issues, Polina’s approach is to always work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and aim for the best outcome of each request received. Her robust customer service skills and experience working in complex organizations in…
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Conor Hourigan promoted to Subhead Millwright in Building Operations
Conor’s expertise in troubleshooting and maintaining various mechanical equipment throughout campus has enabled him to excel in the Millwright team. He has also provided strong leadership and support as the temporary fill-in subhead and head role.