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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Read more: Are you earthquake ready? Join a free workshop for UBC Faculty and staff on June 13
Are you earthquake ready? Join a free workshop for UBC Faculty and staff on June 13
In Vancouver, we are at risk of significant emergencies, including large earthquakes. Join a free personal emergency preparedness workshop designed for UBC Faculty and staff on June 13, 12:00–1:30 pm (online).
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Read more: Forest Sciences Centre Elevator Modernization Project to begin on June 23
Forest Sciences Centre Elevator Modernization Project to begin on June 23
Construction on the Forest Sciences Centre Elevator Modernization Project is anticipated to begin on June 23 and estimated to be complete by the end of October 2025. The project will fully upgrade elevators #1, #2, and #3, and renew the…
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Read more: Construction on accessibility upgrades at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health to begin on June 2
Construction on accessibility upgrades at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health to begin on June 2
This project involves accessibility upgrades of a select door at the atrium on Level 3 to provide an accessible path of travel to the L3 lab, meeting rooms, and the administration office. Expect noise from renovation work at door 3410:1,…
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Read more: Pedestrian pathway south of West Parkade closed June 2 until the end of July for construction
Pedestrian pathway south of West Parkade closed June 2 until the end of July for construction
The underground utility construction portion of the West Mall Swing Space conversion from natural gas to the District Energy System is anticipated to begin on June 2. The pedestrian path between the West Parkade and the University Services Building and…
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Read more: VPFO Update – May 26
VPFO Update – May 26
The VPFO Update is a weekly snapshot that captures important university updates, work across VPFO departments, and relevant resources. Sent on May 26, 2025.
People of the VPFO
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Read more: Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
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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Read more: Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
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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Read more: Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager 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.
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Read more: Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager
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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Read more: Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis
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,…