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

  • Considering buying from Indigenous businesses?

    UBC faculty and staff can purchase from Indigenous businesses easily and efficiently to help achieve goals laid out in UBC’s Indigenous Strategic Plan. Learn more.

    Read more: Considering buying from Indigenous businesses?
  • Metro Vancouver watering restrictions now in effect

    Stage 1 of Metro Vancouver’s Lawn Watering Regulations are in effect from May 1 to October 15, 2025. Both residential and non-residential watering is only allowed once a week, on a specific day. To find out when you are allowed…

    Read more: Metro Vancouver watering restrictions now in effect
  • VPFO Update – May 5

    The VPFO Update is a weekly snapshot that captures important university updates, work across VPFO departments, and relevant resources. Sent on May 5, 2025.

    Read more: VPFO Update – May 5
  • Celebrating Earth Day in the VPFO

    Over thirty team members from across the VFPO joined forces for the 5th Annual Earth Day Clean up the Campus event, led by the Facilities’ Waste Management team. Together, we collected over 100 lbs. of trash!

    Read more: Celebrating Earth Day in the VPFO
  • Access high-quality medical supplies with an Indigenous-owned social benefit procurement enterprise

    UBC Procurement Programs is proud to form a partnership with MSS Ltd, an Indigenous-owned social benefit procurement enterprise. Learn more.

    Read more: Access high-quality medical supplies with an Indigenous-owned social benefit procurement enterprise

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