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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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!
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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.
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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…
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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,…
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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!
People of the VPFO
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Esther Li promoted to Senior Financial Processing Specialist in Treasury
Reporting to Chen Shi, Treasury Accounting Manager, Esther will continue to be responsible for the incoming payments while playing a critical role in more complicated bank reconciliations and other banking side responsibilities.
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Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm
Jen Sheel takes pride in what her team does… and it shows. When you meet Jen, one of the first things you see is her dedication to making UBC a place that invites and builds connections. She fiercely believes that…
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Josephine Shen joins the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team as a Financial Analyst
In her new role, Josephine will play a key role in developing the Strategic Initiatives’ multi-year forecasting model and maintaining various financial models (i.e. Contingency and PAEI) at UBC.
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Celebrating UBC VPFO’s long-serving member inductees in 2022
The VPFO team has a number of long service member inductees this year. This is an amazing personal accomplishment for the individuals and a true testament to their devotion to service at UBC.
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Holly Shepherd promoted to Director, Treasury
Holly Shepherd has been promoted to Director, Treasury with overall responsibility for overseeing tax, contracts, leases & licences, housing loans, payment card industry compliance, service levy and Treasury Accounting.