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

  • MOA Great Hall Renewal project is coming together

    Over the last 6 months, the Museum of Anthropology (MOA): Great Hall Renewal project team has been working on foundations, pre-cast and cast in place structures. Once the structure has been completed, skylights and vertical glazing will be ready for…

    Read more: MOA Great Hall Renewal project is coming together
  • Newly installed Musqueam art pieces at Henry Angus Building

    Facilities recently coordinated the installation of three Musqueam Art pieces created by Susan Point, a Coast Salish artist from Musqueam and a First Nation in Vancouver, British Columbia, in the atrium of the Henry Angus Building.

    Read more: Newly installed Musqueam art pieces at Henry Angus Building
  • UBC’s transition out of the COVID-19 pandemic

    As of today (May 15), the university has disestablished the COVID-19 Campus Rules which provided vital guidance for our community during the pandemic. In addition, previous COVID-19 resources such as the main websites, FAQS and signage will be removed or…

    Read more: UBC’s transition out of the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Successful bike recovery: a collaboration between Campus Security, partners and the community

    A success story of a good samaritan working with Campus Security and partners to recover a stolen bike. To tackle bike theft on campus, UBC has partnered with Project 529, a community-based bike registration and recovery service. It only takes…

    Read more: Successful bike recovery: a collaboration between Campus Security, partners and the community
  • Monitoring UBC’s hot water district energy system for leaks

    The Academic District Energy System (ADES) is fitted with a leak detection system which alarms against both hot water and ground water leaks through a protective insulation jacket. The system is monitored 24/7 by the Facilities team and enables the…

    Read more: Monitoring UBC’s hot water district energy system for leaks

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