Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio


We are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety, risk management, and assurance across our university community.

The Vice-President Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio provides strategic stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, and leads safety, risk management, and assurance across the university. Guided by the values of innovation, unity, and accountability in the VPFO Strategic Plan and in alignment with the UBC Strategic Plan, the portfolio oversees a budget of over $4 billion, and all facilities across UBC Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The portfolio also manages key relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust and is responsible for strategic development and management of UBC’s real estate assets to support the long-term benefit of the university community. 

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

  • Ildar Altynbaev joins Facilities’ Construction Office as a Project Manager 1

    Ildar Altynbaev joins Facilities’ Construction Office as a Project Manager 1 as of June 3, 2024. Ildar’s role will enhance our collective ability to deliver projects to the campus community, focusing on projects that primarily require the oversight of a…

    Read more: Ildar Altynbaev joins Facilities’ Construction Office as a Project Manager 1
  • Staying safe around coyotes

    Have you seen the coyotes around campus? If you see one, keep your distance, for their safety and yours. Learn more about coyote safety.

    Read more: Staying safe around coyotes
  • Staying safe in the heat

    Get ready for rising temperatures and learn how to identify signs and symptoms, the risks related to heat-related illnesses and how to protect yourself by completing the Heat Stress Awareness course on the WPL website.

    Read more: Staying safe in the heat
  • Connect with us on VPFO Day!

    On Wednesday, June 19, join us for a day of connection as we continue building the VPFO team.

    Read more: Connect with us on VPFO Day!
  • Tania Shepelska joins the Integrated Service Centre as Cross Functional Product Sustainment and Support Manager

    Welcome Tania Shepelska, New Cross Functional Product Sustainment and Support Manager. Tania joins the Integrated Service Centre (ISC) after her five-year experience with IRP Student where she started as Subject Matter Expert in Records & Advising and then served as…

    Read more: Tania Shepelska joins the Integrated Service Centre as Cross Functional Product Sustainment and Support Manager

People of the VPFO

  • Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development

    We are pleased to welcome Anna Panzo as the new Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development in Facilities, effective August 3, 2026. Anna brings a thoughtful, systems‑oriented approach to her work, with experience building operational infrastructure, managing complex workflows, and…

    Read more: Anna Panzo joins as Assistant Manager, Capital Planning & Development
  • Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team

    We are pleased to welcome Alison Mitchell to the Financial Reporting team as a Financial Analyst, starting July 20. Alison brings several years of experience in financial statement analysis, internal controls, and audit, including over four years with MNP, where…

    Read more: Alison Mitchell joins as Financial Analyst, Financial Reporting team
  • David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO

    We are pleased to welcome David Sandoe as the new Senior HR Manager, VPFO, effective July 27, 2026. David brings nearly nine years of human resources leadership experience from the VP Students portfolio, where he developed strong, trusted relationships with…

    Read more: David Sandoe joins as Senior HR Manager, VPFO
  • Angela Ruggles joins as Executive Assistant to the VPFO

    Angela Ruggles will be joining the VPFO portfolio as Executive Assistant to the VP Finance & Operations on Tuesday, May 5. Angela will provide direct support to Frank Laezza, Vice-President, Finance & Operations.

    Read more: Angela Ruggles joins as Executive Assistant to the VPFO
  • Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed steps into new roles

    We are beyond pleased to share that Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed will be stepping into a new roles effective April 20.

    Read more: Cassandra Torres and Mariyam Syed steps into new roles