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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Upcoming road closures on UBC Vancouver campus
There is a number of road closures on the UBC Vancouver campus due to construction and events in the coming weeks. Please review the details and plan your routes accordingly.
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Continuing as one VPFO under Karamjeet Heer and John Metras’ leadership
Starting June 1, Karamjeet Heer will begin serving as the Interim Vice-President, Finance, and John Metras will become the Interim Vice-President, Operations following the departure of Peter Smailes, former Vice-President, Finance and Operations.
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May 26 VPFO Town Hall Presentation and Slides
In this VPFO town hall, we reviewed the leadership transition plan, looked back on our accomplishments, and learned about our strategic plan together as one portfolio. The town hall recording and presentation slides are now available.
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Preparing for transition in the VPFO
The hand off starts now. Starting on June 1, Karamjeet Heer will be serving as the Interim Vice-President, Finance, and John Metras will be the Interim Vice-President, Operations.
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tə šxʷhəleləm̓s tə k̓ʷaƛ̓kʷəʔaʔɬ is now occupied
Located adjacent to and infilling around the Walter Gage Residence, the student residence project tə šxʷhəleləm̓s tə k̓ʷaƛ̓kʷəʔaʔɬ will provide a total of 940 housing beds for upper-year students.
People of the VPFO
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Mandy Li is now Manager, Financial Reporting in the office of the Comptroller
Mandy Li has accepted the permanent role of Manager, Financial Reporting, on the Financial Reporting Team in the office of the Comptroller after serving as interim for the past six months. Read more in the Finance Portal [CWL required].
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Congratulations to Nazreen Cameron, recipient of the 2025 President’s Service Award for Excellence
The President’s Service Awards for Excellence are presented to up to five outstanding staff members who have made outstanding contributions to UBC, and who excel in their personal achievements. Congratulations to Nazreen Cameron, Building Service Worker from Custodial Services in…
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Anita McGuinness joins Treasury as Senior Financial Analyst, Contracts, Leases & Housing
Welcome Anita McGuinness as the new Senior Financial Analyst, Contracts, Leases & Housing. In her role, she will be responsible for Housing Loans, Services Levy, and rental agreements. Read more in the Finance Portal [CWL required].
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Lindsay Wyant promoted to Director, Financial Reporting
We are pleased to announce that Lindsay Wyant has officially been selected as Director, Financial Reporting. Please join us in congratulating Lindsay on her well-deserved promotion! Read more in the Finance Portal [CWL required].
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Michael LaPierre joins the Comptroller division as Senior Director of Budget and Financial Planning & Analysis
Michael brings over 20 years of experience in driving financial excellence and leading strategic business transformation. Read more in the Finance Portal [CWL required].