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.
News from the VPFO
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Read more: Using UBC’s purchasing power for good
Using UBC’s purchasing power for good
UBC’s inclusive procurement resources are designed to help faculty and staff make purchasing decisions that reflect our institutional values while meeting academic, operational, and budget needs. Read more on the Finance Portal [CWL required].
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Read more: 2026 Styrofoam Pick-up Calendar now available
2026 Styrofoam Pick-up Calendar now available
The 2026 Styrofoam Pick-up Calendar is now available. Municipal Services provides Styrofoam collection on every other Wednesday at select locations on campus where generation of Styrofoam waste is significant.
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Read more: Guided by UBC’s Strategic Directions 2025-30, this process aligns resources with institutional priorities and reinforces UBC’s academic mission.
Guided by UBC’s Strategic Directions 2025-30, this process aligns resources with institutional priorities and reinforces UBC’s academic mission.
UBC continues to take a thoughtful, long-term approach to budgeting, focusing on prudently managing resources for maximum impact. In the fall, the university began its annual, institution-wide budget planning for 2026-27, engaging leaders across faculties and administrative units on both…
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Read more: 🎉 VPFO 2025 Wrapped
🎉 VPFO 2025 Wrapped
A year of impact, growth, and behind-the-scenes wins. As we wrap up 2025, VPFO teams reflect on a year defined by service, collaboration, and progress. From financial systems and workforce planning to risk management and campus safety, here’s how our…
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Read more: A look back on communications in 2025
A look back on communications in 2025
From launching new websites to sharing stories about our people, our work and even a raccoon rescue, the Communications & Engagement team kept the VPFO informed, engaged, and entertained in 2025.
People of the VPFO
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Read more: Growing our capabilities and strengthening the Treasury team
Growing our capabilities and strengthening the Treasury team
With the transition of Holly’s maternity leave, Treasury has taken this as an opportunity to grow the capabilities and knowledge of the Treasury team, and strengthen the team’s ability to provide value-added service and advice across UBC. Please join us…
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Read more: Pera Hardy joins the Facilities Planning team in Infrastructure Development as Senior Facilities Planner
Pera Hardy joins the Facilities Planning team in Infrastructure Development as Senior Facilities Planner
Pera is a registered architect (AIBC) and LEED Green Associate, Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC). Her programming, planning, design and construction experience in K-12 schools and post-secondary projects will be very beneficial to facilities planning work on campus.
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Read more: Frank Laezza — Get to Know UBC’s new Vice-President Finance & Operations
Frank Laezza — Get to Know UBC’s new Vice-President Finance & Operations
It would be difficult for anyone to argue that Frank Laezza isn’t willing to go the distance for UBC. Fresh off a flight from Perth, Australia, he quite literally came from the opposite side of the planet to take up…
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Read more: Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation
Oliver Choo joins as Finance Director, Vice President Research and Innovation
In his new role, Oliver will be responsible for providing strategic financial leadership within the 16 units of the VPRI portfolio. In addition to managing the portfolio budget of $58M, Oliver will support key initiatives that have significant impact on…
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Read more: Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations
Dimitri Kavouras steps into new role as Subhead Controls Electrician in Building Operations
Passionate about contributing to the UBC community, Dimitri is a current shop steward, previous union delegate, and participant in two apprenticeship committees. He was awarded the Kim Nulty award in 2020 for his contributions and excellence in categories like employee…