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

  • Changes to credit card issuance

    As part of closing the front counter reception on the fifth floor of Technology Enterprise Facility 3 (TEF 3), new UBC Visa cards and card renewals will be mailed out. Card pickup will no longer be an option. For ongoing…

    Read more: Changes to credit card issuance
  • Adopting a new Facilities service delivery model

    Starting April 1, Facilities will be transitioning to a more streamlined and sustainable service model, and the 15-hour non-billable labour limit for customer-funded services will be discontinued.

    Read more: Adopting a new Facilities service delivery model
  • Join the conversation: Get ready for VPFO Day on May 12

    On Monday, May 12, join us for a time of connection to talk about our work, our values and the culture we’re building within the VPFO.

    Read more: Join the conversation: Get ready for VPFO Day on May 12
  • Shifting our UBC Travel Program services

    Over the years, there has been a significant shift in the way the community books travel, moving away from the services offered through the University-related travel page. As such, we are shifting and streamlining our contract management and support for…

    Read more: Shifting our UBC Travel Program services
  • Closing the front counter reception on the fifth floor of TEF 3

    Effective February 28, the front counter reception on the fifth floor of Technology Enterprise Facility 3 (TEF 3) will be closed. This closure is part of our ongoing review of resources, programs, and processes to improve efficiencies and continuous improvement.

    Read more: Closing the front counter reception on the fifth floor of TEF 3

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