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

  • 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
  • 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…

    Read more: Safety & Risk Services’ PrISM welcomes three new Lead Advisor, Information Security Compliance
  • 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.

    Read more: UBC Power House will begin preparation for demolition in early June 2023
  • 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…

    Read more: Metro Vancouver’s Watering Restrictions come into effect on May 1, 2023
  • 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,…

    Read more: Frontline heroes driving our campus forward

People of the VPFO

  • 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
  • Aaron Mogerman appointed Director, Infrastructure Development in UBC Okanagan

    Aaron will head up the new department as the first Director for UBC Okanagan’s Infrastructure Development. He has been an important part of the Infrastructure Development team in Vancouver for a long time and will bring his solid project management…

    Read more: Aaron Mogerman appointed Director, Infrastructure Development in UBC Okanagan
  • Hoi Ying Yu joins Building Operations as Contract Manager

    Hoi will be responsible for managing Building Operations’ service contracts and oversee internal revenue generating contracts. She will be working closely with the trades, project coordinators, and managers to ensure Building Operations’ Preventative Maintenance and Service contracts continue providing value to…

    Read more: Hoi Ying Yu joins Building Operations as Contract Manager