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

  • The VP Finance & Operations is expanding with the addition of UBC’s Enterprise Risk & Assurance

    Effective January 15, 2024, the VP Finance & Operations (VPFO) will be welcoming UBC’s Enterprise Risk & Assurance (ERA) team to the portfolio. This strategic transition is part of our ongoing efforts to optimize the university’s organizational structure, enhance operational…

    Read more: The VP Finance & Operations is expanding with the addition of UBC’s Enterprise Risk & Assurance
  • Construction begins on the Laboratory of Archeology – Iona Building

    Construction has begun on the new Community Research Centre in the Laboratory of Archeology at the Iona Building. This project aims to create a new space for housing archaeological collections recovered from ancient villages and other archaeological sites around the…

    Read more: Construction begins on the Laboratory of Archeology – Iona Building
  • UBC launches Zero Waste Market to promote sustainability

    UBC’s Furniture Reuse program featured in the Ubyssey. The initiative, lead by the UBC facilities department, aims to reduce waste on campus by promoting the reuse of furniture, electronics and other items.

    Read more: UBC launches Zero Waste Market to promote sustainability
  • Here Is Why Your Net Pay May Be Lower in January

    Find out why your net pay may be lower in January, how it affects your personal credit return, and how to get support on updating your tax elections.

    Read more: Here Is Why Your Net Pay May Be Lower in January
  • Delay in ordering UBC Visa cards

    Due to office closure over the holiday season, UBC’s Credit Card team will hold off on ordering new UBC Visa cards starting from Wednesday, December 13, 2023, until Tuesday, January 2, 2024.

    Read more: Delay in ordering UBC Visa cards

People of the VPFO

  • Denise Brown joins Infrastructure Development as Director, Capital Planning

    Denise comes to UBC with over 15 years of experience as an owner’s representative in construction capital and operations projects and a passion for creating sustainable and innovative spaces that enhance the quality of life and learning for students and…

    Read more: Denise Brown joins Infrastructure Development as Director, Capital Planning
  • Wendy Lam joins Customer Services & Informatics in Facilities as Clerk

    Through supporting engagement and communication activities, Wendy will enhance the team’s ability to make data readily available to staff managers.

    Read more: Wendy Lam joins Customer Services & Informatics in Facilities as Clerk
  • Custodial Services celebrates Vaisakhi  

    Custodial Services’ staff celebrated Vaisakhi on Friday morning at the start of the shift in the UBC Life Building Custodial deployment office. Special thanks to Balvir Bains and Charanjit Bains for organizing this celebration!

    Read more: Custodial Services celebrates Vaisakhi  
  • UBC Emergency Management welcomes two new team members, Mariyam Syed and Alicia Head

    Mariyam Syed, Emergency Management & Continuity Planning Advisor, will spearhead UBC’s Continuity Planning Program while also providing expertise to numerous other program elements, and Alicia Head, Emergency Management & Continuity Planning Associate, will have a broad support role on the…

    Read more: UBC Emergency Management welcomes two new team members, Mariyam Syed and Alicia Head
  • “What are we doing? Where can we improve?” Continuous improvement in action

    Adam started at UBC as a Warehouse Clerk for UBC Bookstore in 2011 and moved into the role of Storeperson at Stores in UBC Facilities in 2016. Since then, through learning continuously, developing strong relationships and providing leadership, Adam has…

    Read more: “What are we doing? Where can we improve?” Continuous improvement in action