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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Read more: Keep our shared spaces clean and welcoming: Check out the Classroom Usage Guidelines

Keep our shared spaces clean and welcoming: Check out the Classroom Usage Guidelines
Classrooms can be used as a study space when classes or other events are not in session. Please give priority to classes and room bookings. Follow the Classroom Usage Guidelines.
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Read more: University Services Building (USB) Lighting Renewal: Exterior work occurring October 6–8

University Services Building (USB) Lighting Renewal: Exterior work occurring October 6–8
Exterior lighting work is scheduled to begin this Monday, October 6. The west sidewalk on West Mall will be closed to pedestrian traffic. On October 8, work will begin on the north side of USB.
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Read more: New Monday yoga classes starting October 20 at the Centre

New Monday yoga classes starting October 20 at the Centre
Starting October 20, we will be adding an additional yoga class to the Centre’s group class schedule! Sessions will be held on Mondays at 4:00 pm, offering a great way to relieve body tension and improve strength, flexibility and balance at…
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Read more: Are you prepared for an earthquake? ShakeOut and UBC Alert testing will take place on October 16

Are you prepared for an earthquake? ShakeOut and UBC Alert testing will take place on October 16
On October 16, 2025, practice how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On at 10:16 am during the annual Great BC ShakeOut. As part of ShakeOut, UBC will be testing its emergency notification system, UBC Alert. Learn more about how you…
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Read more: Help keep the Centre for Occupational Health, Safety & Wellbeing organized and welcoming

Help keep the Centre for Occupational Health, Safety & Wellbeing organized and welcoming
Please return fitness equipment to their proper location after use. Our multi-purpose rooms are also used for in-person training sessions, so keeping the space clear and tidy ensures it’s safe and ready for everyone to use.
People of the VPFO
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Read more: Valerie Nichol appointed UBCO’s Director of Integrated Planning and Chief Budget Officer as of July 1, 2023
Valerie Nichol appointed UBCO’s Director of Integrated Planning and Chief Budget Officer as of July 1, 2023
Valerie brings seven years of valuable experience within UBC Okanagan, along with a significant tenure in various other organizations, which she will leverage to enhance our finance team.
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Read more: Samuel Akindele joins Facilities’ Municipal Services as Trades 3 Mechanic
Samuel Akindele joins Facilities’ Municipal Services as Trades 3 Mechanic
Samuel has over 15 years of experience as Heavy Duty Mechanic. He joins UBC most recently from BC Ferries where he worked as Marine Engine Mechanic, and was responsible for Engine Overhauling, Rad Drives, and Pumps.
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Read more: Forecasting for a solid future
Forecasting for a solid future
Raffaela works with her team to ensure a sound financial position for UBC for generations to come. Read more about what it’s like working in a team as diverse as Treasury, what respect means to her professionally, and how she…
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Read more: Bringing teams together over good food and good laughs
Bringing teams together over good food and good laughs
“Food brings people together,” explains Bryan Antenor, Customer Support Manager in Financial Operations. “Connecting over potlucks, having a few good laughs and participating in highly competitive Mario Kart Switch tournaments are just some of the simple yet effective ways we…
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Read more: Helen Yung — Get to Know UBC’s New Comptroller
Helen Yung — Get to Know UBC’s New Comptroller
Fresh onto campus, we’ve taken the opportunity to ask Helen more about herself, her views on leadership, and what excites her about working with the VPFO and UBC.