Penny Penner
Interim Director, Human Resources
The VPFO HR team consistently strives to deliver strategic and operational business partner support for the VPFO and promote the University’s people practices that align to the core values of excellence, integrity, respect, accountability, and safety.
Penny Penner has a one-year secondment to the role of Director, HR for the VPFO effective January 26, 2026, through January 26, 2027 to provide senior leadership and support within VPFO HR.
Penny previously served as Senior HR Manager within the VP Students (VPS) portfolio, where she spent the past 6.5 years leading a team of HR professionals and supporting a broad range of strategic and operational initiatives. Her experience includes overseeing complex recruitment activities, leading strategic HR projects, handling intricate employee and labour relations issues, and continuously evaluating and strengthening HR processes and systems to enhance the delivery of efficient, comprehensive, and client-centered HR support. Penny is also a valued contributor to the VPS EDI Committee and brings a strong, demonstrated commitment to fostering inclusive and respectful workplaces.
Penny is well regarded for her thoughtful and collaborative leadership style, her ability to provide valued strategic advice to senior leaders, and her focus on building trusted partnerships across diverse client groups.
Contact Information
Email: penny.penner@ubc.ca
Updates from VPFO HR
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Read more: Welcome to Edward Ganal as Team Manager, Day Shift – Custodial Services
Welcome to Edward Ganal as Team Manager, Day Shift – Custodial Services
We are excited to announce Edward Ganal is the new Team Manager, Day Shift – Custodial Services. Edward steps into this position with over 17 years of UBC Custodial Services experience.
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Read more: Jocelyn Bissett joins as Administrative Assistant to the VPFO
Jocelyn Bissett joins as Administrative Assistant to the VPFO
We are thrilled to announce that Jocelyn Bissett will be joining the VPFO Admin Team starting March 2, 2026, as an Administrative Assistant to the VPFO. She will primarily support the VPFO calendar and administrative tasks, working closely with the…
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Read more: Alison Birdsall promoted to Director, Enterprise Risk Management
Alison Birdsall promoted to Director, Enterprise Risk Management
Effective February 16, 2026, Alison Birdsall has stepped into the role of Director, Enterprise Risk Management in Enterprise Risk & Assurance.