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

  • UBC Board of Governors approves balanced operating budget for 2024/25

    UBC is reporting a healthy financial position as part of its 2024/25 budget, approved by the Board of Governors this week.

    Read more: UBC Board of Governors approves balanced operating budget for 2024/25
  • Do your part and Sort It Out

    As we continue our commitment to sustainability, we want to take a moment to remind everyone of the importance of recycling and waste sorting and to continue to sort their personal deskside waste. Learn more.

    Read more: Do your part and Sort It Out
  • Contacting your Direct Travel Advisor

    Direct Travel Advisors can be used for UBC related or personal travel and are able to provide general advice on your travel planning, bookings, and travel cancellation insurances. Learn more on the UBC Finance travel booking page.

    Read more: Contacting your Direct Travel Advisor
  • UBC employees get discounts for rail services between Pearson Airport and Downtown Toronto

    As part of the UBC Travel Program, a 25% discount is now available for UBC employees who sign up with UP Express using their UBC email address for rail services between Pearson Airport and Downtown Toronto for any business-related travels.

    Read more: UBC employees get discounts for rail services between Pearson Airport and Downtown Toronto
  • UBC Launches Workday Assistant Chat Tool

    The Office of the Chief Information Officer and VP Finance & Operations are pleased to announce the launch of Workday Assistant in Workday. Workday Assistant is a conversational chatbot tool for faculty, staff and student employees to optionally use when…

    Read more: UBC Launches Workday Assistant Chat Tool

People of the VPFO

  • 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.

    Read more: Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
  • 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…

    Read more: Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
  • 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.

    Read more: Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations
  • 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.

    Read more: Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager
  • Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis

    A UBC Alumna, Sarah will partner with departments across the university to assist and monitor the main drivers of revenue and expenses at UBC. She will also develop and evaluate strategic options and alternatives on financial decisions that impact the university,…

    Read more: Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis