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: Steven Bao Joins UBC as Finance Director, Special Projects
Steven Bao Joins UBC as Finance Director, Special Projects
Starting January 11th Steven will be working with the Karamjeet Heer in the Comptroller’s portfolio, with a focus on financial reporting matters.
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Read more: Stanley Lau joins UBC as Manager, Payroll Operations and Control
Stanley Lau joins UBC as Manager, Payroll Operations and Control
Starting January 11, Stanley will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the payroll and benefits team, and lead the area in providing exceptional payroll services to the campus community.
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Read more: Robin Shortt & Ingrid Lindner joins the EMMS Sustainment team in Building Operations
Robin Shortt & Ingrid Lindner joins the EMMS Sustainment team in Building Operations
We are happy to announce that we have now filled two additional positions on the EMMS Sustainment team — Business Analyst and Systems Analyst. Robin Shortt will take on the Business Analyst role for the EMMS Sustainment team, and Ingrid…
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Read more: Tarkan Serim joins Building Operations as team lead for the EMMS Sustainment Team
Tarkan Serim joins Building Operations as team lead for the EMMS Sustainment Team
Tarkan will be leading the Enterprise Maintenance Management System (EMMS) Sustainment Team and will be responsible for EMMS issues resolution, back log management, product management, vendor release management, and will be a key member of the EMMS Steering Committee. This…
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Read more: Adam Rosenthal promoted as the Head in Stores with Building Operations
Adam Rosenthal promoted as the Head in Stores with Building Operations
Adam has been an acting Head on many occasions in Stores, and has demonstrated he has the qualities required to be successful in this new role. As a Sub-head, Adam has developed strong relationships, and provided leadership and technical oversight…