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 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.
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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…
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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…
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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.
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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.
People of the VPFO
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Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis
Nicole brings a wealth of experience and over eight years as a dedicated CPA specializing in accounting and auditing. Previously, Nicole served as the Senior Project Accountant for the Integrated Renewal Program at UBC from 2018 to 2021. During her…
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Jimmy Gau joins ISC Service Desk as ISC Service Centre Manager
Jimmy joins the ISC Service Desk team on May 1 to work alongside co-Managers, Liam Murphy and Divya Shetty, and Senior Manager, Veekay Padhi. As a former UBC student and coming from his previous role with IRP Student as a…
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Parm Ubhi promoted to Assistant Chief Engineer in Energy & Water Services
Paramvir Ubhi has been promoted to Assistant Chief Engineer in UBC Facilities’ Energy & Water Services for UBC’s two thermal energy plants as of April 15.
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Get to know the senior leadership team: Rob Einarson
Fostering a culture of purpose driven leadership, get to know Rob Einarson, Associate Vice-President, Finance & Operations, Okanagan, and his leadership vision: “I am a leader who inspires and supports people to develop both professionally and personally so they can…
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Get to know the senior leadership team: Chris Freek
Fostering a culture of purpose driven leadership, get to know Chris Freek, Director, Communications & Engagement, and his leadership vision: “I am a designer, builder and coach who empowers people to move beyond, to achieve a more impactful future than…