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 Vice-President Finance & Operations (VPFO) portfolio provides strategic stewardship of UBC’s physical and financial assets, and leads safety, risk management, and assurance across the university. Guided by the values of innovation, unity, and accountability in the VPFO Strategic Plan and in alignment with the UBC Strategic Plan, the portfolio oversees a budget of over $4 billion, and all facilities across UBC Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. The portfolio also manages key relationships with UBC Investment Management and UBC Properties Trust and is responsible for strategic development and management of UBC’s real estate assets to support the long-term benefit of the university community. 

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

  • Rowena Yang appointed Associate Vice-President, Finance

    I am pleased to share that Rowena Yang has been appointed as Associate Vice-President, Finance, effective September 10, reporting to the Chief Financial Officer pro tem.

    Read more: Rowena Yang appointed Associate Vice-President, Finance
  • Koerner Library floor 2 renovations between August 19 to October 28

    Renovation work is underway for floor 2 of the Koerner Library from August 19 to October 28, 2026. Construction noise will be noticeable throughout the building, with some activities causing additional vibration and disruption.

    Read more: Koerner Library floor 2 renovations between August 19 to October 28
  • Associate Vice-President, Finance Announcement

    I am pleased to share that Rowena Yang has been appointed as the university’s Associate Vice-President, Finance, effective September 10.

    Read more: Associate Vice-President, Finance Announcement
  • Construction underway on new location for UBC Learning Exchange

    UBC has partnered on a new purpose-built home for the UBC Learning Exchange within a mixed-use, non-market housing development. Targeted for completion in 2029, the accessible building will enhance Learning Exchange programs.

    Read more: Construction underway on new location for UBC Learning Exchange
  • Stay safe in the heat

    Extreme temperatures can place significant stress on your body. During extreme weather your body may struggle to regulate its internal temperature, which could result in thermal stress and heat illness.

    Read more: Stay safe in the heat

People of the VPFO

  • Gardenia Honorio joins Facilities as Manager, Business and Support Services

    Gardenia will take on this temporary 18 month position while Joey-Lee Rebelo fills in for Deb Capps’ maternity leave. She brings a wealth of career experience between her previous positions in both Brazil and Canada, including nearly a year spent…

    Read more: Gardenia Honorio joins Facilities as Manager, Business and Support Services
  • Django Lehner is promoted to People & Process Manager in Building Operations

    During his time at UBC, Django has shown extensive knowledge of complex mechanical systems and mechanical trade operations. He has garnered the respect of his peers and co-workers across the department with his strong communication skills and demeanor.

    Read more: Django Lehner is promoted to People & Process Manager in Building Operations
  • Anthony Boyce promoted to Head Metal Worker in Building Operations

    Tony joined UBC in 2017, and progressed his way through the Metal Shop in Trades within Building Operations, and most recently as the Sub-Head for the past 18 months. He has over 35 years experience in the sheet metal industry…

    Read more: Anthony Boyce promoted to Head Metal Worker in Building Operations
  • Bert Tempel joins Infrastructure Development as Project Coordinator

    Bert joined UBC in 2001 with a sheet metal trades certification. He has spent 20 years in Building Operations’ Sheet Metal Shop where he developed extensive experience and knowledge in the construction of mechanical systems, building maintenance, HVAC systems renewal,…

    Read more: Bert Tempel joins Infrastructure Development as Project Coordinator
  • Carolyn Rhee-Thompson joins UBC as Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR

    Carolyn is a CPA with over 10 years of financial leadership experience supporting a broad group of internal clients. As Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR, Carolyn will bring financial leadership and strategic expertise to the portfolio.

    Read more: Carolyn Rhee-Thompson joins UBC as Finance Director, VPFO/VPHR