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

  • Thank you for your warm welcome from our new VP, Frank Laezza 

    Time is flying, it’s hard to believe a month has passed already since I joined the portfolio. I’m so impressed with the work I’m seeing across the team — most recently with our finance folks in finalizing UBC’s 2023/24 budget. My thanks to everyone…

    Read more: Thank you for your warm welcome from our new VP, Frank Laezza 
  • Update on UBC’s budget for the 2023/24 fiscal year

    UBC’s Board of Governors has approved the 2023/2024 budget, setting out the university’s spending priorities for the year ahead. Thank you to all those who helped create this report. Read UBC’s 2023/24 Budget Report on the UBC Finance website.

    Read more: Update on UBC’s budget for the 2023/24 fiscal year
  • UBC launches Agency Fund Guidelines (FD950)

    The Agency Fund Guidelines have been developed to provide the UBC finance community clarity on the requirements for the appropriate usage of the Agency Fund (FD950).

    Read more: UBC launches Agency Fund Guidelines (FD950)
  • UBC launches fifth year of the UniForum program

    This year we are launching year 5 of the program, and from May 29 to June 30 we will be collecting data relating to all professional staff at UBC, to better understand the types of activities they perform on a…

    Read more: UBC launches fifth year of the UniForum program
  • Update: Purchases under $3,500

    Learn more about the three options available for faculties, departments and units for purchases of goods and/or services up to $3,500 Canadian Dollars in value inclusive of taxes per person.

    Read more: Update: Purchases under $3,500

People of the VPFO

  • 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners

    The UBC Facilities Staff Excellence Award Program provides recognition and rewards to staff who have demonstrated excellence consistently in the performance of their work and service to the university. This year, Facilities received over 60 nominations. Congratulations to our 2022…

    Read more: 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners
  • Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022

    Please join UBC Finance in congratulating Wesam Mostadi, Accounts Payable Team Lead in the VP Finance & Operations, and Anas Qartoumeh, Finance Manager in VP Research and Innovation (VPRI) Portfolio in UBC Okanagan on passing their 2022 Common Final Exam…

    Read more: Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022
  • 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…

    Read more: Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
  • 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.

    Read more: Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
  • 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.

    Read more: Making accountability personal