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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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…
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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…
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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.
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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.
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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.
People of the VPFO
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Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
In order to enhance their technical expertise in civil engineering, asset stewardship and fleet management, UBC Facilities’ Municipal Services is pleased to welcome two new team members, Fiona Keating, Senior Manager, and Rishi Purohit, Fleet and Asset Manager.
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Making accountability personal
Thomas Straley — with 20 years of experience in Accounts Payable — is one of the lucky people who find their dream job early and build an endlessly rewarding career.
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Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Since stepping into the Acting role in June 2022, Joanna has played an instrumental in supporting her client areas through a busy quarter-end and the start of the FY23 budget process.
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Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Mr. Laezza will join us from Murdoch University, Australia, where he is Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for leading the university’s business and finance functions, as well as for the management of its financial and capital resources. Mr. Laezza will…
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Gardenia Honório transitions into new role as Business Operations Manager within Facilities’ Customer Services and Informatics
Gardenia will lead the Facilities Service Centre and Clerical teams and the Staff Records team, support training and other important Facilities initiatives including onboarding, safety training scheduling, IT device management, etc.