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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Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
Sam has been a driving force in finding opportunities to build a stronger foundation for our Campus Security teams. His extensive experience in leading projects and teams within Compliance, Security, and Risk Management roles in the public sector will make…
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Making accountability personal
Thomas Straley — with 20 years of experience in Accounts Payable — is one of the lucky people who find their dream job early and build an endlessly rewarding career.
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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…
People of the VPFO
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Sean Lynch steps into role as Acting Director, Custodial Service in Facilities
Starting June 6, Sean Lynch will be Acting Director, Custodial Service in Facilities. He joined UBC in 2011 in Student Housing & Community Services and joined Custodial Services as Operations Manager in 2017.
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Caroline Macleod promoted to Executive Assistant to Associate Vice-President, Facilities
Caroline brings a wealth of experience to this role and will be responsible for liaising with the wider University community and fostering working relationships with Senior Executives across the University. Caroline will be the primary contact person for John Metras,…
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Changes in the VPFO HR team
We are pleased to announce a number of positive changes on the VPFO Human Resources team. We have prepared a service map to help you navigate these changes and understand the roles and assigned departments of our team members.
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Ernesto Castano joins UBC’s Financial Operations group as the Associate Director, Procurement
Ernesto will play a vital role in leading the Procurement function to support our community in meeting their needs through the procurement and competitive bidding processes, leveraging Workday and Planon.
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Joan Mar and Entela Ifti step into new positions in the Financial Planning & Analysis team
In their new roles, Joan and Entela will work with the Assistant Comptroller to lead the FP&A team and support our partners across the university. Joan Mar will be joining as Director, Financial Planning & Analysis on June 16, and…