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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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.
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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…
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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.
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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.
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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,…