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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Access card only for 5th floor of Technology Enterprise Facility 3 (TEF 3)
Effective May 1, the fifth floor of Technology Enterprise Facility 3 (TEF 3) will be restricted to card access only. Elevators to the fifth floor will be locked and restricted from public access. Learn more.
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Emergency Preparedness Week is May 4–10, 2025
Join us during Emergency Preparedness Week (EP Week) to increase our community’s resilience by learning about emergency preparedness. Start by getting informed on the risks in your community, make a plan, and then build a kit.
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Staples orders placed through Workday and Eway.ca
Staples Professional Inc. and Staples Canada ULC recently completed a legal amalgamation on March 9, 2025. UBC will be moving to a new supplier configuration on Workday under the name Staples Canada ULC from April 30 at 4:01 pm to…
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Ant season is here: Help keep pests away
Ants are one of the most common structural pests, capable of quickly turning from a minor nuisance into a persistent problem. If you notice any ants at your work space or building, submit a pest control service request in Planon!
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Energizing the future: SHED project wins 2025 SAB Award
The Smart Hydrogen Energy District (SHED) – Hydrogen Generation and Fueling Station won a prestigious 2025 SAB Green Building Award for its excellence in energy innovation and environmental impact. This project is a unique partnership between industry and government to…
People of the VPFO
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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.
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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…
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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.
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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.
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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,…