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

  • Upcoming road closures on UBC Vancouver campus as of January 31, 2023

    The following road closures are expected around the UBC Vancouver campus as of January 31, 2023. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

    Read more: Upcoming road closures on UBC Vancouver campus as of January 31, 2023
  • T4/T4A tax slips for faculty and staff expected by February 28

    This year we expect Payroll-related T4 and T4A forms for the 2022 tax year to be published and available in Workday by February 28, 2023. A further announcement will be shared when the tax slips are available. Please ensure that…

    Read more: T4/T4A tax slips for faculty and staff expected by February 28
  • 2023 Soft plastic and styrofoam pick-up schedule is available

    Did you know that plastic bags (a type of soft plastic) and styrofoam are not currently recyclable at UBC’s sort-it stations? There are several collection points across campus for pickup. If you are generating a significant amount of soft plastic…

    Read more: 2023 Soft plastic and styrofoam pick-up schedule is available
  • Deadline for expense/invoice approval is March 30

    The deadline for expensive/invoice approval is Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 2:30 pm. This means supplier invoices and expense reports, including credit card reconciliations, must have completed all the requisite steps/approvals in Workday and be fully approved by then to…

    Read more: Deadline for expense/invoice approval is March 30
  • Balancing safety and innovation

    Janet Hankins leads a team of specialists in biosafety, radiation, and chemical safety and occupational hygiene responsible for the handling of hazardous substances across the university. Learn how Janet resonates with the VPFO’s strategic directions and values, and how her…

    Read more: Balancing safety and innovation

People of the VPFO

  • 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.

    Read more: Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
  • 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…

    Read more: Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
  • 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