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

  • Wherever you are, “Drop, Cover, & Hold On!”

    Join us in the annual province-wide earthquake drill, Great BC ShakeOut at 10:21 a.m. on October 21, 2021, and learn more about the risks in our community and what UBC is doing to plan ahead. If you are registered for…

    Read more: Wherever you are, “Drop, Cover, & Hold On!”
  • Preparing for the Big One: UBC research lab to shake, rattle and roll

    UBC’s Earthquake Engineering Research Facility (EERF) will shake, rattle and roll for the public this International ShakeOut Day. EERF will open its doors to the public from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 21, after the shakeout drill…

    Read more: Preparing for the Big One: UBC research lab to shake, rattle and roll
  • Share your feedback on the proposed business expense rules by Nov. 1

    The UBC Board of Governors recently approved an updated Business Expenses Policy and Procedures, which are expected to become effective in early 2022. All members of the UBC community are invited to review the new business expense rules proposed to…

    Read more: Share your feedback on the proposed business expense rules by Nov. 1
  • Safety Awareness Week: Outdoor Event on Safety & Security

    Meet our Campus Security team and community partners (RCMP, Transit Police, SVPRO, ICBC, Crimestoppers, and VFRS), and learn more about their role on campus vs. community partners, as well as tips on maintaining safety and security on campus. Find them at the…

    Read more: Safety Awareness Week: Outdoor Event on Safety & Security
  • Highlighting the hidden: Integrating operational infrastructure into the community

    Recently, infrastructure design has shifted, with more focus on integration of these operational facilities into the urban fabric of our communities. This article by Stantec features UBC’s new Water Pump Station — built to serve the water needs of the…

    Read more: Highlighting the hidden: Integrating operational infrastructure into the community

People of the VPFO

  • Curtis Spencer is promoted to Subhead Electrical Maintenance in Building Operations

    Curtis joined UBC in February 2017 working on campus street lights before moving to the electrical controls crew where he took on both the green and teal zones. Curtis has vast experience in commercial and industrial settings, and has shown…

    Read more: Curtis Spencer is promoted to Subhead Electrical Maintenance in Building Operations
  • Chris Bastien joins as the Finance Services Manager

    As the Finance Services Manager, Chris will play a vital role in leading the Finance Services Team to support our Community in Finance Period End activities, and the improvement of Workday’s processes. Chris comes to us with 20 years of…

    Read more: Chris Bastien joins as the Finance Services Manager
  • Kyle Fenton joins Infrastructure Development as Associate Project Manager

    Kyle’s diverse range of professional skills within project management and project design and construction, coupled with his unique insights into different project roles will be a definite asset to the Project Services team.

    Read more: Kyle Fenton joins Infrastructure Development as Associate Project Manager
  • Bill Liu promoted to Procurement Officer in UBC Financial Operations

    In his new role, Bill will play a key role in leading and completing RFx processes for purchases above $75K. The role is integral to the success of the Procurement Sourcing team by ensuring best procurement practices are being followed.

    Read more: Bill Liu promoted to Procurement Officer in UBC Financial Operations
  • Raymond Lum promoted to Subhead Metal Worker in Building Operations

    Raymond has been in the metal shop at UBC for seven years and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in layout, fabricating, assembling, welding and installation. He was a participant in the Expression of Interest (EOI) program and is…

    Read more: Raymond Lum promoted to Subhead Metal Worker in Building Operations