Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio


We are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety, risk management, and assurance across our university community.

The Vice-President Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio provides strategic stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, and leads safety, risk management, and assurance across the university. Guided by the values of innovation, unity, and accountability in the VPFO Strategic Plan and in alignment with the UBC Strategic Plan, the portfolio oversees a budget of over $4 billion, and all facilities across UBC Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The portfolio also manages key relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust and is responsible for strategic development and management of UBC’s real estate assets to support the long-term benefit of the university community. 

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

  • Browse the refreshed VPFO Update archive

    The archive section of our VPFO newsletter just got a refresh! Browse through the VPFO Update archive to find a past newsletter or update from the portfolio!

    Read more: Browse the refreshed VPFO Update archive
  • UBC’s newest state-of-the art fitness centre opens

    UBC Vancouver has tripled indoor fitness and recreation space with the opening of Recreation Centre North (RCN). The soft opening of the facility began on June 23 and will continue through June 29.

    Read more: UBC’s newest state-of-the art fitness centre opens
  • Preparing for your first visit to the Rec North Fitness Centre

    The Rec North Fitness Centre is spread across four floors so we’ve put together a few tools to help you familiarize yourself with the space before you visit. Learn more about the Fitness Centre through a floor-by-floor equipment guide, tips…

    Read more: Preparing for your first visit to the Rec North Fitness Centre
  • Campus Security report to our community is now available

    The 2024 Campus Security annual report to our community is now available, offering a comprehensive look at the department’s progress, priorities, and future direction. Aligned with the VP Finance & Operations’ Strategic Plan and Safety & Risk Services Business Plan,…

    Read more: Campus Security report to our community is now available
  • Two UBC projects featured in the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Innovation magazine

    The UBC Pharmacy Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) System was featured for its innovative approach to energy efficiency. Congratulations to our UBC Facilities team and everyone involved in this project!

    Read more: Two UBC projects featured in the Engineers and Geoscientists BC Innovation magazine

People of the VPFO

  • Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development

    We are pleased to welcome Anna Panzo as the new Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development in Facilities, effective August 3, 2026. Anna brings a thoughtful, systems‑oriented approach to her work, with experience building operational infrastructure, managing complex workflows, and…

    Read more: Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development
  • Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team

    We are pleased to welcome Alison Mitchell to the Financial Reporting team as a Financial Analyst, starting July 20. Alison brings several years of experience in financial statement analysis, internal controls, and audit, including over four years with MNP, where…

    Read more: Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team
  • David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO

    We are pleased to welcome David Sandoe as the new Senior HR Manager, VPFO, effective July 27, 2026. David brings nearly nine years of human resources leadership experience from the VP Students portfolio, where he developed strong, trusted relationships with…

    Read more: David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO
  • Angela Ruggles joins as Executive Assistant to the VPFO

    Angela Ruggles will be joining the VPFO portfolio as Executive Assistant to the VP Finance & Operations on Tuesday, May 5. Angela will provide direct support to Frank Laezza, Vice-President, Finance & Operations.

    Read more: Angela Ruggles joins as Executive Assistant to the VPFO
  • Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed steps into new roles

    We are beyond pleased to share that Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed will be stepping into a new roles effective April 20.

    Read more: Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed steps into new roles