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.

Learn about the VPFO Strategic Plan

News from the VPFO

  • Safety Awareness Week is September 15–19, 2025

    Let’s start the year off right by learning how to keep yourself and the UBC community safe and secure on campus. During this week, visit UBC Campus Security’s information booths to learn about theft prevention and helpful safety and security…

    Read more: Safety Awareness Week is September 15–19, 2025

  • The Hennings Building Roof Renewal is underway 

    Estimated construction dates: August 25 – October 31, 2025. This project will renew the aging Hennings Building roof systems, remove redundant mechanical systems, and complete localized, minimally invasive seismic improvements.

    Read more: The Hennings Building Roof Renewal is underway 

  • Anthropology and Sociology (ANSO) Renewal set to begin in January 2026

    Currently, the envelope and infrastructure of the Anthropology and Sociology building are at the end of their service life. The building will be fully renewed with new systems, an upgraded envelope, and a revised interior layout to support modern research…

    Read more: Anthropology and Sociology (ANSO) Renewal set to begin in January 2026

  • Staying cool at UBC

    Explore these resources to help stay cool and safe during the heat. Cool off at these air-conditioned UBC Vancouver buildings: Irving K. Barber Learning Centre and Koerner Library. Avoid direct sunlight and drink lots of cool fluids.

    Read more: Staying cool at UBC

  • Read UBC’s 2025 Annual Financial Statements

    The Annual Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2025, are now available.

    Read more: Read UBC’s 2025 Annual Financial Statements

People of the VPFO

  • Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation

    In his new role, Oliver will be responsible for providing strategic financial leadership within the 16 units of the VPRI portfolio. In addition to managing the portfolio budget of $58M, Oliver will support key initiatives that have significant impact on…

    Read more: Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation

  • Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations

    Passionate about contributing to the UBC community, Dimitri is a current shop steward, previous union delegate, and participant in two apprenticeship committees. He was awarded the Kim Nulty award in 2020 for his contributions and excellence in categories like employee…

    Read more: Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations

  • Building a more innovative campus — one project at a time

    A powerful duo in the VPFO, Aletha Utimati, a PMP-certified Project Manager and Sandy Sull, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) bring completely different expertise but share a vision for an innovative campus, a passion for collaboration, and the ability to…

    Read more: Building a more innovative campus — one project at a time

  • Rosanna Ma steps into new role as Facilities Safety Associate

    Rosanna’s experience in the Research Compliance and Occupational Hygiene team in SRS and consulting industry will be extremely beneficial in her new role. She will be transitioning from the Donald Rix office to join the Facilities Safety team in the…

    Read more: Rosanna Ma steps into new role as Facilities Safety Associate

  • Meynardo Villarica steps into new role as Architectural Head in Building Operations

    Meynardo joined Building Operations in September 2012 as a carpenter in the Yellow Zone Carpenter and later became the Sub-head for the Carpenter Shop. Bringing a wealth of trade and customer service experience, Meynardo will help to build out processes…

    Read more: Meynardo Villarica steps into new role as Architectural Head in Building Operations