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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UBC opens Gordon B. Shrum Building, Canada’s first purpose-built biomedical engineering facility
New home of UBC’s School of Biomedical Engineering will advance health solutions and grow Canada’s biotech sector. As Canada’s first purpose-built facility for biomedical engineering, the new building brings together researchers, students, and industry partners under one roof.
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UBC Third Quarter 2024/25 Financial Report is now available
The university’s third quarter 2024/25 financial report is now available on the UBC Finance portal.
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Update on UBC’s and UBCIM Responsible Investing Commitments
The University is committed to continually advancing its responsible investing practices and enhancing existing important work in this area. At this time, we are particularly focused on further integration of social factors, including human rights, in a manner that is…
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UBC Facilities roadmap: Strengthening service for a growing campus
Guided by UBC’s Strategic Plan and the VPFO Strategic Plan—specifically the focus on Collaboration, Customer Service & Engagement, the UBC Facilities Roadmap drives meaningful improvements in how we connect with customers, streamline operations, and elevate the service experience for the…
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Enhancing seismic resilience at UBC
Since 2012, UBC has invested more than $200 million in seismic upgrades to buildings and infrastructure. Read more on the UBC News website.
People of the VPFO
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Frank Laezza — Get to Know UBC’s new Vice-President Finance & Operations
It would be difficult for anyone to argue that Frank Laezza isn’t willing to go the distance for UBC. Fresh off a flight from Perth, Australia, he quite literally came from the opposite side of the planet to take up…
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Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation
In his new role, Oliver will be responsible for providing strategic financial leadership within the 16 units of the VPRI portfolio. In addition to managing the portfolio budget of $58M, Oliver will support key initiatives that have significant impact on…
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Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations
Passionate about contributing to the UBC community, Dimitri is a current shop steward, previous union delegate, and participant in two apprenticeship committees. He was awarded the Kim Nulty award in 2020 for his contributions and excellence in categories like employee…
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Building a more innovative campus — one project at a time
A powerful duo in the VPFO, Aletha Utimati, a PMP-certified Project Manager and Sandy Sull, a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) bring completely different expertise but share a vision for an innovative campus, a passion for collaboration, and the ability to…
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Rosanna Ma steps into new role as Facilities Safety Associate
Rosanna’s experience in the Research Compliance and Occupational Hygiene team in SRS and consulting industry will be extremely beneficial in her new role. She will be transitioning from the Donald Rix office to join the Facilities Safety team in the…