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

  • 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…

    Read more: Sam Stephens transitions into permanent role as Director, Campus Security in Safety & Risk Services
  • 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.

    Read more: Making accountability personal
  • 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.

    Read more: UBC publishes first Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures Report
  • 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…

    Read more: Updated COVID-19 Campus Rules
  • 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…

    Read more: UBC Facilities driving operational efficiency and resilience through the MacLeod Building renewal:

People of the VPFO

  • 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…

    Read more: Nicole Wendt joins the Financial Planning and Analysis team as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis
  • 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…

    Read more: Jimmy Gau joins ISC Service Desk as ISC Service Centre Manager
  • 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.

    Read more: Parm Ubhi promoted to Assistant Chief Engineer in Energy & Water Services
  • 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…

    Read more: Get to know the senior leadership team: Rob Einarson
  • 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…

    Read more: Get to know the senior leadership team: Chris Freek