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

  • Shaping the portfolio at VPFO Day

    Over the past two weeks, our portfolio hosted five VPFO Day events (UBCV main; UBCV morning, night, and evening shifts; and UBCO) to create opportunities for our diverse teams to meet, connect and learn about our portfolio’s direction.

    Read more: Shaping the portfolio at VPFO Day
  • The Centre welcomes new yoga instructor Tania Clarke

    Starting Wednesday, July 2, Tania Clarke will join The Centre as our new yoga instructor. It is Tania’s mission to help guide you towards a pain free life and a better relationship with pain management and prevention.

    Read more: The Centre welcomes new yoga instructor Tania Clarke
  • UBC’s first report on fighting against forced labor and child labor in Supply Chains now available

    UBC is proud to release its inaugural report under the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act. Read the full report to support our commitment to human rights and fundamental freedoms. This report will be updated…

    Read more: UBC’s first report on fighting against forced labor and child labor in Supply Chains now available
  • Understanding how operations and maintenance are funded at UBC

    Over the past decade, UBC has grown considerably and now is similar to a city or town, in addition to being a university campus. With a dynamic and growing population, UBC Facilities recognizes the need to provide transparency on how…

    Read more: Understanding how operations and maintenance are funded at UBC
  • Collaborating across UBC to prepare campus for climate-change emergencies

    We have seen the harmful effects of extreme heat, extreme rainfall, and wildfire events in BC over the past few years. To help UBC prepare for climate change-related emergencies, Safety & Risk Services’ Emergency Management alongside faculty partners created the…

    Read more: Collaborating across UBC to prepare campus for climate-change emergencies

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