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

  • UBC’s FY2023 Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) now available online

    In 2018, the Canadian government formally endorsed the adoption of the Task Force on Climate-Related Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations by all Canadian organizations to support Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement. UBC recently published its second annual report for the period…

    Read more: UBC’s FY2023 Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) now available online
  • Exciting new exhibit in progress for the Pacific Museum of the Earth

    Construction has begun on the installation of an interpretive exhibit for the Pacific Museum of the Earth at the Earth Science Building entrance. The exhibit will showcase the wonders of planet Earth and inspire visitors with two magnificent dinosaur skeleton…

    Read more: Exciting new exhibit in progress for the Pacific Museum of the Earth
  • Explore the stunning new Chung | Lind Gallery

    The Chung | Lind Gallery in the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre welcomes visitors to explore BC’s multicultural history. The renovation project was managed by UBC Facilities Project Services with great collaboration with UBC Library.

    Read more: Explore the stunning new Chung | Lind Gallery
  • Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis

    Nicole brings a wealth of experience and over eight years as a dedicated CPA specializing in accounting and auditing. Previously, Nicole served as the Senior Project Accountant for the Integrated Renewal Program at UBC from 2018 to 2021. During her…

    Read more: Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis
  • Upcoming Workday enhancements for June 2024

    The Integrated Service Centre (ISC) continually updates Workday to align with UBC’s evolving needs, incorporating feedback and collaborating with different units, faculties and departments. See some of the planned enhancements for Workday Finance, and HR (HCM) and Payroll, that are…

    Read more: Upcoming Workday enhancements for June 2024

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