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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Welcome to Helen Yung, UBC’s new Comptroller
Helen Yung joins UBC today as the university’s new Comptroller, with responsibility for delivering financial intelligence, planning, and reporting to facilitate decision-making.
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Take part in the Mass Care Open House & Preparedness Fair to become better prepared for emergencies
Safety & Risk Services’ Emergency Management team will be hosting a Mass Care Open House on June 28, 2023. This event is an opportunity for key responding staff to familiarize and problem-solve the mass care planning done to date. Mass…
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Matheus Thom Vasconcelos joins Treasury as Senior Treasury Analyst
In his new position, Matheus will assist the team in delivering analytical support for strategic initiatives across campus as well as supporting UBC’s cash forecasting and liquidity analysis.
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Realignment of roles within Financial Service & Strategic Procurement
Over the years, Financial Service & Strategic Procurement within Finance & Operational Excellence have been working with faculties and administrative units to look for opportunities to improve levels of service across the university. In order to improve our service level…
People of the VPFO
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Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sustainability Coordinator program, Campus & Community Planning spoke to Erin Kastner, Geospatial Information Manager with Energy & Water Services, on her commitment to sustainability at UBC.
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Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
Philip Beck is the successful candidate for the new Soft Landscape head position that was introduced to support Chris Longford, head of the Soft Landscape team. Chris and Phil will work closely together to manage a growing team of over…
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Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations
In this new role, Kayna will be working closely with the Architectural Trades Team to gain a fulsome understanding of architectural maintenance considerations to provide a better balance of the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders within UBC.
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Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager
Holly is joining the Treasury group as the university’s new Tax Manager, supporting the community with advising for tax-related matters, as well as general oversight of UBC’s tax strategies.
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Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis
A UBC Alumna, Sarah will partner with departments across the university to assist and monitor the main drivers of revenue and expenses at UBC. She will also develop and evaluate strategic options and alternatives on financial decisions that impact the university,…