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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Are you earthquake ready? Join a free workshop for UBC Faculty and staff on June 13
In Vancouver, we are at risk of significant emergencies, including large earthquakes. Join a free personal emergency preparedness workshop designed for UBC Faculty and staff on June 13, 12:00–1:30 pm (online).
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Forest Sciences Centre Elevator Modernization Project to begin on June 23
Construction on the Forest Sciences Centre Elevator Modernization Project is anticipated to begin on June 23 and estimated to be complete by the end of October 2025. The project will fully upgrade elevators #1, #2, and #3, and renew the…
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Construction on accessibility upgrades at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health to begin on June 2
This project involves accessibility upgrades of a select door at the atrium on Level 3 to provide an accessible path of travel to the L3 lab, meeting rooms, and the administration office. Expect noise from renovation work at door 3410:1,…
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Pedestrian pathway south of West Parkade closed June 2 until the end of July for construction
The underground utility construction portion of the West Mall Swing Space conversion from natural gas to the District Energy System is anticipated to begin on June 2. The pedestrian path between the West Parkade and the University Services Building and…
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Potential delays to university cheque mailing due to Canada Post job action
Canada Post’s operations are being impacted by strike action as of May 25. While Canada Post continues to operate, users may experience delays in mail delivery, including cheque delivery for payroll and suppliers.
People of the VPFO
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Esther Li promoted to Senior Financial Processing Specialist in Treasury
Reporting to Chen Shi, Treasury Accounting Manager, Esther will continue to be responsible for the incoming payments while playing a critical role in more complicated bank reconciliations and other banking side responsibilities.
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Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm
Jen Sheel takes pride in what her team does… and it shows. When you meet Jen, one of the first things you see is her dedication to making UBC a place that invites and builds connections. She fiercely believes that…
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Josephine Shen joins the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team as a Financial Analyst
In her new role, Josephine will play a key role in developing the Strategic Initiatives’ multi-year forecasting model and maintaining various financial models (i.e. Contingency and PAEI) at UBC.
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Celebrating UBC VPFO’s long-serving member inductees in 2022
The VPFO team has a number of long service member inductees this year. This is an amazing personal accomplishment for the individuals and a true testament to their devotion to service at UBC.
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Holly Shepherd promoted to Director, Treasury
Holly Shepherd has been promoted to Director, Treasury with overall responsibility for overseeing tax, contracts, leases & licences, housing loans, payment card industry compliance, service levy and Treasury Accounting.