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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Jay Hiscox appointed Director, Project Services with Infrastructure Development
Jay has been part of the Infrastructure Development family since joining UBC in November 2016. He joined Project Services as Senior Project Manager, and was later promoted to Senior Manager and then Associate Director.
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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.
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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…
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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.
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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.