Welcome to the VP Finance & Operations portfolio


We are responsible for the stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, as well as safety, risk management, and assurance across our university community.

The portfolio 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.

Learn about the VPFO Strategic Plan

News from the VPFO

  • Updated Credit Card Request Forms in Workday

    Financial Operations and the ISC have recently updated two Credit Card request forms in Workday: Credit Card Request | Limit Change and Credit Card Request | Application, to improve clarity and guidance as well as help reduce the number of…

    Read more: Updated Credit Card Request Forms in Workday

  • 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.

    Read more: Upcoming road closures on UBC Vancouver campus

  • 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.

    Read more: Continuing as one VPFO under Karamjeet Heer and John Metras’ leadership  

  • 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.

    Read more: May 26 VPFO Town Hall Presentation and Slides

  • 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.

    Read more: Preparing for transition in the VPFO

People of the VPFO