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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Enabling excellence at UBC: Here’s the overview of the VPFO Strategic Plan
Having a strategic plan gives us a clear path, keeping everyone on the same page. Here is where we’re going next—and how we plan to get there.
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Ildar Altynbaev joins Facilities’ Construction Office as a Project Manager 1
Ildar Altynbaev joins Facilities’ Construction Office as a Project Manager 1 as of June 3, 2024. Ildar’s role will enhance our collective ability to deliver projects to the campus community, focusing on projects that primarily require the oversight of a…
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Staying safe around coyotes
Have you seen the coyotes around campus? If you see one, keep your distance, for their safety and yours. Learn more about coyote safety.
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Staying safe in the heat
Get ready for rising temperatures and learn how to identify signs and symptoms, the risks related to heat-related illnesses and how to protect yourself by completing the Heat Stress Awareness course on the WPL website.
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Connect with us on VPFO Day!
On Wednesday, June 19, join us for a day of connection as we continue building the VPFO team.
People of the VPFO
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Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
Sam has been a driving force in finding opportunities to build a stronger foundation for our Campus Security teams. His extensive experience in leading projects and teams within Compliance, Security, and Risk Management roles in the public sector will make…
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Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
In order to enhance their technical expertise in civil engineering, asset stewardship and fleet management, UBC Facilities’ Municipal Services is pleased to welcome two new team members, Fiona Keating, Senior Manager, and Rishi Purohit, Fleet and Asset Manager.
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Making accountability personal
Thomas Straley — with 20 years of experience in Accounts Payable — is one of the lucky people who find their dream job early and build an endlessly rewarding career.
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Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Since stepping into the Acting role in June 2022, Joanna has played an instrumental in supporting her client areas through a busy quarter-end and the start of the FY23 budget process.
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Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Mr. Laezza will join us from Murdoch University, Australia, where he is Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for leading the university’s business and finance functions, as well as for the management of its financial and capital resources. Mr. Laezza will…