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

  • VPFO MONDAY UPDATE – JUNE 5, 2023

    The VPFO Update is a weekly snapshot that captures important university updates, work across VPFO departments, and relevant resources. Sent on June 6, 2023.

    Read more: VPFO MONDAY UPDATE – JUNE 5, 2023
  • Join us in celebrating Pride Month at UBC

    At UBC, we’re proud of our diverse students, faculty and staff. This June, explore the many Pride activities at UBC, connect with your community, help create positive space on and off campus and stand up for sexual orientation and gender identity…

    Read more: Join us in celebrating Pride Month at UBC
  • MOA Great Hall Renewal project featured in Engineers & Geoscientists British Columbia’s Innovation magazine

    The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) Great Hall Renewal project was featured in the annual project highlights issue of Engineers & Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC)’s Innovation magazine, a showcase of innovative and sustainable projects.

    Read more: MOA Great Hall Renewal project featured in Engineers & Geoscientists British Columbia’s Innovation magazine
  • Attend The Centre Health Fair: Heart Health this June

    Brought to you by The Centre for Occupational Health, Safety & Wellbeing in partnership with the UBC Pharmacists Clinic, The Centre Health Fair: Heart Health will provide you with information, awareness, self-assessment, and personalized consultation on your heart health.  

    Read more: Attend The Centre Health Fair: Heart Health this June
  • Thank you for joining the “We are the VPFO” team event

    On May 31, team members from across the VPFO gathered for an in-person event to hear from our new Vice-President Frank Laezza and to connect with each other across the portfolio’s departments, groups, and services. Click through for an event…

    Read more: Thank you for joining the “We are the VPFO” team event

People of the VPFO

  • 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.

    Read more: Erin Kastner, a sustainability champion for twenty years
  • 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…

    Read more: Philip Beck promoted as new Head in Soft Landscape, Municipal Services with Building Operations
  • 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.

    Read more: Kayna Merchant joins UBC as Facilities Architectural Manager with Building Operations
  • 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.

    Read more: Holly Shepherd joins UBC as Tax Manager
  • 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,…

    Read more: Sarah Goold Joins Treasury as Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis