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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Have your say! Help define Inclusive Washrooms at UBC
During the month of March and April, we are asking students, faculty, staff, and visitors to share their experiences, challenges, needs, and ideas to help define Inclusive Washrooms at UBC.
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Kishani Gibbons promoted as Director, Customer Services & Informatics with Building Operations
Effective March 5, 2020, Kishani will formally take on the Business Services team, forming the new division Customer Service & Informatics in Building Operations.
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Campus Security Get a New Set of Wheels
To help team members provide an efficient service around campus, Campus Security has invested in a brand new Gem e2 electric vehicle. The vehicle has zero emissions and runs at a fraction of the cost of a traditional gas vehicle.
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VPFO Gathers for Pink Shirt Day 2020
Team members from across the VPFO gathered on February 26 to celebrate Pink Shirt Day 2020, and talk about respect, diversity and inclusion.
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Indian Residential School History & Dialogue Centre wins 2019 North American Copper in Architecture Award
The only winner in Western Canada, UBC’s Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre (IRSHDC) features a standing seam copper roof that embodies the Coast Salish’s idea that the chief’s copper represents dignity.
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,…