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

  • Grab a sweater and prepare for a cooler campus

    The temperatures have dropped and winter conditions are coming to our campus. A reminder to bundle up and dress appropriately to stay warm and safe from the winter elements.

    Read more: Grab a sweater and prepare for a cooler campus
  • Custodial Services realignment

    Effective November 7, UBC Facilities is implementing the new simplified Custodial Services staffing model to provide all staff with full-time opportunities and facilitate professional development and increased opportunities for improvement. Due to the new staffing model, the Building Service Worker…

    Read more: Custodial Services realignment
  • Review the 2022 Financial Information Act Report

    The 2022 Financial Information Act Report is now available on the UBC Finance website. The annual report includes payments to suppliers in excess of $25,000, employee salaries above $75,000, remuneration for our Board of Governors, and details of outstanding debt.

    Read more: Review the 2022 Financial Information Act Report
  • Working together to ensure proper and timely payments to payees

    Fair and timely processing of payments to payees, including vendors and suppliers, is a priority of the Accounts Payable (AP) team in UBC Finance. This guide includes some steps UBC staff and payees can take to ensure accurate and timely…

    Read more: Working together to ensure proper and timely payments to payees
  • Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm

    Jen Sheel takes pride in what her team does… and it shows. When you meet Jen, one of the first things you see is her dedication to making UBC a place that invites and builds connections. She fiercely believes that…

    Read more: Creating inclusive spaces beyond the public realm

People of the VPFO

  • Gardenia Honorio joins Facilities as Manager, Business and Support Services

    Gardenia will take on this temporary 18 month position while Joey-Lee Rebelo fills in for Deb Capps’ maternity leave. She brings a wealth of career experience between her previous positions in both Brazil and Canada, including nearly a year spent…

    Read more: Gardenia Honorio joins Facilities as Manager, Business and Support Services
  • Django Lehner is promoted to People & Process Manager in Building Operations

    During his time at UBC, Django has shown extensive knowledge of complex mechanical systems and mechanical trade operations. He has garnered the respect of his peers and co-workers across the department with his strong communication skills and demeanor.

    Read more: Django Lehner is promoted to People & Process Manager in Building Operations
  • Anthony Boyce promoted to Head Metal Worker in Building Operations

    Tony joined UBC in 2017, and progressed his way through the Metal Shop in Trades within Building Operations, and most recently as the Sub-Head for the past 18 months. He has over 35 years experience in the sheet metal industry…

    Read more: Anthony Boyce promoted to Head Metal Worker in Building Operations
  • Bert Tempel joins Infrastructure Development as Project Coordinator

    Bert joined UBC in 2001 with a sheet metal trades certification. He has spent 20 years in Building Operations’ Sheet Metal Shop where he developed extensive experience and knowledge in the construction of mechanical systems, building maintenance, HVAC systems renewal,…

    Read more: Bert Tempel joins Infrastructure Development as Project Coordinator
  • Carolyn Rhee-Thompson joins UBC as Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR

    Carolyn is a CPA with over 10 years of financial leadership experience supporting a broad group of internal clients. As Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR, Carolyn will bring financial leadership and strategic expertise to the portfolio.

    Read more: Carolyn Rhee-Thompson joins UBC as Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR