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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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…
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Safety & Risk Services’ PrISM welcomes three new Lead Advisor, Information Security Compliance
Jack Wong, Tom Powers, and Jeff de Castro joins PrISM as part of the Compliance Support Program. In their new role, they will each be taking on various challenges and find areas of improvement to support UBC’s mission as a…
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UBC Power House will begin preparation for demolition in early June 2023
In early June, the UBC Power House will begin preparation for demolition for the development of the new UBC Sauder School of Business expansion. During this project, there will be various levels of disruption and road closures.
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Metro Vancouver’s Watering Restrictions come into effect on May 1, 2023
Stage 1 of Metro Vancouver’s Lawn Watering Regulations will be in effect from May 1 to October 15, 2023, as outlined in Metro Vancouver’s Drinking Water Conservation Plan. The region wide watering regulations are an effective way to help us use…
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Frontline heroes driving our campus forward
When you talk to Jeff or Amber, one of the first things you will notice is their genuine care for our beautiful campus and diverse community. Both professionals in their fields, Jeff and Amber work hard to ensure a safe,…
People of the VPFO
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Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
Sam has been a driving force in finding opportunities to build a stronger foundation for our Campus Security teams. His extensive experience in leading projects and teams within Compliance, Security, and Risk Management roles in the public sector will make…
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Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
In order to enhance their technical expertise in civil engineering, asset stewardship and fleet management, UBC Facilities’ Municipal Services is pleased to welcome two new team members, Fiona Keating, Senior Manager, and Rishi Purohit, Fleet and Asset Manager.
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Making accountability personal
Thomas Straley — with 20 years of experience in Accounts Payable — is one of the lucky people who find their dream job early and build an endlessly rewarding career.
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Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Since stepping into the Acting role in June 2022, Joanna has played an instrumental in supporting her client areas through a busy quarter-end and the start of the FY23 budget process.
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Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Mr. Laezza will join us from Murdoch University, Australia, where he is Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for leading the university’s business and finance functions, as well as for the management of its financial and capital resources. Mr. Laezza will…