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: Nick Steel promoted to Senior Advisor, Faculty of Medicine in Safety & Risk Services
Nick Steel promoted to Senior Advisor, Faculty of Medicine in Safety & Risk Services
In his new role as Senior Advisor, Faculty of Medicine within the Occupational Health & Safety, Nick will lead a team to continue to develop, promote and implement the occupational health and safety program for the Faculty of Medicine.
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Read more: Lubna Shawwa joins Operational Excellence as Continuous Improvement Program Manager
Lubna Shawwa joins Operational Excellence as Continuous Improvement Program Manager
Leveraging her robust experience in continuous improvement and problem solving, in addition to her passion for driving efficiency and collaboration, Lubna will play a key role in enhancing and delivering continuous improvement projects across UBC.
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Read more: Cristine Estrada joins UBC’s Financial Operations as Procurement Sourcing Manager
Cristine Estrada joins UBC’s Financial Operations as Procurement Sourcing Manager
As Procurement Sourcing Manager, Cristine will play a vital role in leading the Procurement Sourcing team to support our community in meeting their needs through the competitive bidding process, leveraging Bonfire and Workday processes.
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Read more: James Woo promoted to Project Manager in Facilities’ Infrastructure Development
James Woo promoted to Project Manager in Facilities’ Infrastructure Development
Since joining Project Services in March 2020, James has continually built his expertise on UBC’s high standards and technical guidelines while building trusting relationships with UBC clients and stakeholders.
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Read more: Polina Sefin joins as Service Centre Coordinator within Customer Services & Informatics, Facilities
Polina Sefin joins as Service Centre Coordinator within Customer Services & Informatics, Facilities
When dealing with inquiries and supply chain-related issues, Polina’s approach is to always work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and aim for the best outcome of each request received. Her robust customer service skills and experience working in complex organizations in…