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

  • Who wants a hug from a bug? Get your free flu shot!

    Boost your wellbeing and promote a healthy campus by getting your free flu shot at the UBC Flu Clinic — it’s your best protection against the flu.

    Read more: Who wants a hug from a bug? Get your free flu shot!
  • Get ready to ShakeOut

    This October, practice the Great BC Shakeout, an annual province-wide earthquake drill for everyone to practice how to protect themselves and to be better prepared in the event of an earthquake.

    Read more: Get ready to ShakeOut
  • Join UBC in the 2019 United Way Campaign

    Every year, almost 800 of UBC staff and faculty donate to the UBC United Way campaign. Starting on Monday, Oct. 7, you can support the university’s only board-approved charity by becoming a UBC United Way donor.

    Read more: Join UBC in the 2019 United Way Campaign
  • Living and Breathing Service: Recognizing the People of the VPFO

    VPFO strategic plan asks us to inspire great people. There’s nothing more inspiring than our Presidential Award-winning co-workers and how their dedication and service makes a daily difference at UBC.

    Read more: Living and Breathing Service: Recognizing the People of the VPFO
  • Safety Practices and Awareness

    This week’s incident at the West Parkade has left some of us reflecting on our safety practices and awareness. I would like to remind our VPFO community about some resources on campus to help you refresh your sense of safety.

    Read more: Safety Practices and Awareness

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