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

  • New contracts available for Executive Search and Recruitment

    The agreements for procurement of Executive Level Search and Recruitment Services with these approved providers will ensure simplified procurement process, access to a prequalified vendor pool of experienced and highly recognized executive search firms in BC, best value, and commitment…

    Read more: New contracts available for Executive Search and Recruitment
  • Changes to UBC Service Levy

    The UBC services levy is used to run the community centres, athletic and cultural facilities, and to maintain public spaces and infrastructure within UBC neighbourhoods. The Services Levy Notices issued in 2022 will be due on August 8, 2022. Read…

    Read more: Changes to UBC Service Levy
  • Vancouver will continue to see warmer than average temperatures

    Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Metro Vancouver for the rest of today June 27, 2022 with inland temperatures reaching 34 degrees. Given the current high temperatures, we wanted to provide some resources and information to help you…

    Read more: Vancouver will continue to see warmer than average temperatures
  • Driving safely on campus

    Driving safely on and around UBC campuses is essential. To help, we have put together some basic safety guidelines to ensure a safe campus, and remember, the pedestrian always has the right of way.

    Read more: Driving safely on campus
  • Pedestrian safety on campus

    Safety practices for walking are just as important as those for riding on a bus or in a car. Click through for some simple road safety guidelines to prevent pedestrian injuries.

    Read more: Pedestrian safety on campus

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