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 Board of Governors approves balanced operating budget for 2025/26
UBC is projecting a balanced financial position as part of its 2025/26 budget, approved by the university’s Board of Governors this week.
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Considering buying Canadian?
With the recent developments regarding Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs, many questions have been raised regarding purchases at UBC. Visit UBC’s Finance portal for more information regarding supporting Canadian suppliers and navigating U.S. tariffs (CWL Required).
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Building the Future of Finance at UBC
Finance Transformation brings new tools, new roles, and a stronger, more connected Finance Community.
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Re-installation of the “Symbols for Education” mural now complete outside Brock Commons South
With Brock Commons South now complete, the Symbols for Education mural is successfully reinstalled. This effort was led by Pam Troyer, Project Manager, and Victor Wong, Project Coordinator, from Facilities.
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A new Utility Portal is coming your way!
The new UBC Utility Portal will be launching in Summer 2025. This portal will improve utility customers’ ability to manage their utility accounts and let them receive invoices online and go paperless!
People of the VPFO
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Strengthening Municipal Services’ Asset and Fleet Management Services within Facilities
In order to enhance their technical expertise in civil engineering, asset stewardship and fleet management, UBC Facilities’ Municipal Services is pleased to welcome two new team members, Fiona Keating, Senior Manager, and Rishi Purohit, Fleet and Asset Manager.
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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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Joanna Huang steps into Finance Manager role supporting the VPHR and VPFO Admin portfolios
Since stepping into the Acting role in June 2022, Joanna has played an instrumental in supporting her client areas through a busy quarter-end and the start of the FY23 budget process.
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Frank Laezza appointed Vice-President, Finance and Operations
Mr. Laezza will join us from Murdoch University, Australia, where he is Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for leading the university’s business and finance functions, as well as for the management of its financial and capital resources. Mr. Laezza will…
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Gardenia Honório transitions into new role as Business Operations Manager within Facilities’ Customer Services and Informatics
Gardenia will lead the Facilities Service Centre and Clerical teams and the Staff Records team, support training and other important Facilities initiatives including onboarding, safety training scheduling, IT device management, etc.