Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio


We are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety, risk management, and assurance across our university community.

The Vice-President Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio provides strategic stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, and leads safety, risk management, and assurance across the university. Guided by the values of innovation, unity, and accountability in the VPFO Strategic Plan and in alignment with the UBC Strategic Plan, the portfolio oversees a budget of over $4 billion, and all facilities across UBC Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The portfolio also manages key relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust and is responsible for strategic development and management of UBC’s real estate assets to support the long-term benefit of the university community. 

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.

Learn about the VPFO Strategic Plan

News from the VPFO

  • Guided by UBC’s Strategic Directions 2025-30, this process aligns resources with institutional priorities and reinforces UBC’s academic mission.

    UBC continues to take a thoughtful, long-term approach to budgeting, focusing on prudently managing resources for maximum impact. In the fall, the university began its annual, institution-wide budget planning for 2026-27, engaging leaders across faculties and administrative units on both…

    Read more: Guided by UBC’s Strategic Directions 2025-30, this process aligns resources with institutional priorities and reinforces UBC’s academic mission.

  • 🎉 VPFO 2025 Wrapped

    A year of impact, growth, and behind-the-scenes wins. As we wrap up 2025, VPFO teams reflect on a year defined by service, collaboration, and progress. From financial systems and workforce planning to risk management and campus safety, here’s how our…

    Read more: 🎉 VPFO 2025 Wrapped

  • A look back on communications in 2025 

    From launching new websites to sharing stories about our people, our work and even a raccoon rescue, the Communications & Engagement team kept the VPFO informed, engaged, and entertained in 2025.

    Read more: A look back on communications in 2025 

  • Celebrating our achievements: 2025 reflections from John Metras

    As we close out 2025, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an extraordinary year—one filled with growth, challenges, and remarkable achievements. Your dedication and professionalism have strengthened UBC in countless ways, and I am…

    Read more: Celebrating our achievements: 2025 reflections from John Metras

  • Interim leadership announcement for VPFO HR

    To provide senior leadership and support within VPFO HR, I’m pleased to share that Penny Penner has accepted a one-year secondment to the role of Director, HR, effective January 26, 2026, through January 26, 2027. 

    Read more: Interim leadership announcement for VPFO HR

People of the VPFO