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

  • 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…

    Read more: First steps towards a Finance Data & Reporting Strategy for UBC
  • 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…

    Read more: UBC’s FY2023 Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) now available online
  • 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…

    Read more: Exciting new exhibit in progress for the Pacific Museum of the Earth
  • 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.

    Read more: Explore the stunning new Chung | Lind Gallery
  • 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…

    Read more: Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis

People of the VPFO

  • 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…

    Read more: Frank Laezza — Get to Know UBC’s new Vice-President Finance & Operations
  • 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…

    Read more: Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation
  • 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…

    Read more: Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations
  • 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…

    Read more: Building a more innovative campus — one project at a time
  • 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…

    Read more: Rosanna Ma steps into new role as Facilities Safety Associate