A message from Vice-President, Finance, Karamjeet Heer

A short while ago, the President’s Office sent a Bulletin to the university announcing some changes in the VPFO’s senior leadership team. I have accepted a new position with Simon Fraser University (SFU) as their Associate Vice-President, Finance. My last day with UBC will be October 31. 

Watching our team come together and form new connections and new ideas has been some of the most rewarding time in my career. The depth of talent on our team has given me the opportunity to contribute significant improvements to our financial processes and successfully manage the many pressures of the pandemic. You have all taught me so much.

As I work through the next months, my responsibilities as Comptroller will be moving to Matt Boydston. You have all had a chance to work with Matt over the past few years and I’m certain you are pleased as I am to see our projects continue under Matt’s kind and thoughtful leadership. My Interim role as Vice-President, Finance will be moving into the capable hands of Yale Loh. 

The financial road ahead for UBC will still be challenging as the university continues to face financial pressures. However, I know you are resilient and will continue to work together as one to challenge the status quo and thrive for excellence. In this, your diversity will become one of your greatest strengths. Please continue to build an inclusive environment that embraces your differences and supports each other. Continue to stand up for your values, encourage innovation, and demand excellence regardless of your role at the university. You are better together and by working as one can have a bigger impact in the university and its global mission.

I am grateful for the friendships I have made and I will continue to cherish my time at UBC. Through industry associations like COWFLOP, CAUBO, W3, as well as informal gatherings and catch ups, we will not be far apart and can continue to share, learn and grow together into the future.

Being part of your team will always be my greatest achievement at UBC. I look forward to seeing you continue to prosper in years to come,

Karamjeet Heer
Interim Vice-President, Finance, UBC
AVP Finance, Simon Fraser University