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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First steps towards a Finance Data & Reporting Strategy for UBC
This week we are introducing new tools and resources for the finance community that expand our ability to manage data and develop reports. The first is Calumo, a financial reporting tool, and the second is Power BI, which we are…
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UBC’s FY2023 Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) now available online
In 2018, the Canadian government formally endorsed the adoption of the Task Force on Climate-Related Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations by all Canadian organizations to support Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement. UBC recently published its second annual report for the period…
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Exciting new exhibit in progress for the Pacific Museum of the Earth
Construction has begun on the installation of an interpretive exhibit for the Pacific Museum of the Earth at the Earth Science Building entrance. The exhibit will showcase the wonders of planet Earth and inspire visitors with two magnificent dinosaur skeleton…
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Explore the stunning new Chung | Lind Gallery
The Chung | Lind Gallery in the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre welcomes visitors to explore BC’s multicultural history. The renovation project was managed by UBC Facilities Project Services with great collaboration with UBC Library.
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Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis
Nicole brings a wealth of experience and over eight years as a dedicated CPA specializing in accounting and auditing. Previously, Nicole served as the Senior Project Accountant for the Integrated Renewal Program at UBC from 2018 to 2021. During her…
People of the VPFO
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Frank Laezza — Get to Know UBC’s new Vice-President Finance & Operations
It would be difficult for anyone to argue that Frank Laezza isn’t willing to go the distance for UBC. Fresh off a flight from Perth, Australia, he quite literally came from the opposite side of the planet to take up…
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Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation
In his new role, Oliver will be responsible for providing strategic financial leadership within the 16 units of the VPRI portfolio. In addition to managing the portfolio budget of $58M, Oliver will support key initiatives that have significant impact on…
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Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations
Passionate about contributing to the UBC community, Dimitri is a current shop steward, previous union delegate, and participant in two apprenticeship committees. He was awarded the Kim Nulty award in 2020 for his contributions and excellence in categories like employee…
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Building a more innovative campus — one project at a time
A powerful duo in the VPFO, Aletha Utimati, a PMP-certified Project Manager and Sandy Sull, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) bring completely different expertise but share a vision for an innovative campus, a passion for collaboration, and the ability to…
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Rosanna Ma steps into new role as Facilities Safety Associate
Rosanna’s experience in the Research Compliance and Occupational Hygiene team in SRS and consulting industry will be extremely beneficial in her new role. She will be transitioning from the Donald Rix office to join the Facilities Safety team in the…