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

  • UBC publishes first Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures Report

    UBC endorses the adoption of Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations and is committed to producing annual TCFD disclosures alongside supporting TCFD’s global mission of market transparency.

    Read more: UBC publishes first Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures Report
  • Updated COVID-19 Campus Rules

    UBC has updated the COVID-19 Campus Rules to reflect the recent Provincial Health Orders. There are currently no province-wide restrictions at this time. All students, faculty, staff, and others must check themselves for COVID-19 symptoms prior to engaging in in-person…

    Read more: Updated COVID-19 Campus Rules
  • UBC Facilities driving operational efficiency and resilience through the MacLeod Building renewal:

    “This was an incredible opportunity for our teams to come together and transform a historical building into a more efficient and sustainable facility that aligns with our university’s strategic goals,” notes Noel McNally, Project Manager in Project Services within UBC…

    Read more: UBC Facilities driving operational efficiency and resilience through the MacLeod Building renewal:
  • Welcoming Frank Laezza, our new VP Finance & Operations

    We are pleased to share the appointment of Frank Laezza as UBC’s new Vice-President, Finance and Operations. Mr. Laezza will be starting in his new role here in the VPFO early in the spring of 2023.

    Read more: Welcoming Frank Laezza, our new VP Finance & Operations
  • UBC Parking Alert – Rose Garden Parkade Closure for UBC Graduation

    A reminder to all permit holders that UBC Parking permits will not be valid at Rose Garden parkade on UBC Graduation dates (weekdays from November 15 to 25) from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm.

    Read more: UBC Parking Alert – Rose Garden Parkade Closure for UBC Graduation

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