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 Pink Shirt Day 2022

    On Feb 23rd 2022, Peter Smailes addressed the VPFO as part of our annual Pink Shirt Day event. Click though for a transcript of his speech to the team.

    Read more: VPFO Pink Shirt Day 2022
  • Inside the new UBC Arts Student Centre

    In November 2021, UBC Arts Student Centre officially opened its doors. The three-storey, cylindrical building located on East Mall and Walter Gage Road will be a common meeting ground for Arts students to interact across disciplines, with spaces to relax…

    Read more: Inside the new UBC Arts Student Centre
  • T4/T4A Tax Slips and T2200s Forms Will Soon Be Available for Faculty and Staff

    T4/T4A tax slips and T2200S forms will be made available for faculty and staff through the Workday system next week. In the meantime, UBC Finance has created some resources to answer any questions the community may have about their tax…

    Read more: T4/T4A Tax Slips and T2200s Forms Will Soon Be Available for Faculty and Staff
  • Heat recovery chiller and coils successfully commissioned

    The new heat recovery chiller in Chemistry D Block would be capable of providing its forecasted 5000GJ in annual thermal energy savings, saving the university almost $50,000 per year. Chemistry E Block is on track for their predicted energy savings…

    Read more: Heat recovery chiller and coils successfully commissioned
  • New Biomass Boiler going through commissioning at the BRDF 

    The new UBC biomass boiler is going through its commissioning tests at the Bioenergy Research Demonstration Facility (BRDF). As the new boiler’s combustion is fine-tuned, you may notice some grey smoke, accompanied by a campfire scent, from the BRDF on occasion. 

    Read more: New Biomass Boiler going through commissioning at the BRDF 

People of the VPFO

  • Maliheh Oliver, Manager PIA Operations and Engagement and Taylor Bohn, Privacy and Security Advisor join PrISM in Safety & Risk Services

    Privacy & Information Security (PrISM) in Safety & Risk Services is pleased to welcome Maliheh Oliver as Manager PIA Operations and Engagement and Taylor Bohn as Privacy and Security Advisor.

    Read more: Maliheh Oliver, Manager PIA Operations and Engagement and Taylor Bohn, Privacy and Security Advisor join PrISM in Safety & Risk Services
  • In memory of March Cheng

    It is with profound sadness that we have learned of the passing of our dear friend and colleague March Cheng. March consistently made a positive impact on every team she was a part of. Her knowledge of payroll was second…

    Read more: In memory of March Cheng
  • 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners

    The UBC Facilities Staff Excellence Award Program provides recognition and rewards to staff who have demonstrated excellence consistently in the performance of their work and service to the university. This year, Facilities received over 60 nominations. Congratulations to our 2022…

    Read more: 2022 Facilities Staff Excellence Award winners
  • Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022

    Please join UBC Finance in congratulating Wesam Mostadi, Accounts Payable Team Lead in the VP Finance & Operations, and Anas Qartoumeh, Finance Manager in VP Research and Innovation (VPRI) Portfolio in UBC Okanagan on passing their 2022 Common Final Exam…

    Read more: Congratulations to our successful CFE writers for 2022
  • 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