University of Michigan’s Financial Leadership Sees New Appointment
In a significant development within the University of Michigan’s financial administration, Robert (Bobby) Hewlett III has been named vice president for finance, effective July 1. This decision comes as part of President Domenico Grasso’s strategic appointments aimed at strengthening the university’s financial operations.
The announcement was communicated to staff through a message from Geoffrey Chatas, executive vice president and chief financial officer, on July 1. Hewlett, who has been with the university for 14 years, steps into this role following his recent position as interim associate vice president for finance and his previous role as controller at Michigan Medicine.
An alumnus of the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, Hewlett holds both a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in accounting. Before joining the University of Michigan, he was employed at PricewaterhouseCoopers.
“Bobby’s financial expertise and experience, deep understanding of the university, and steady and proactive leadership make him an excellent choice for this position,” Chatas highlighted in his message to employees. “He has consistently demonstrated both sound judgment and an ability to move us forward.”
As part of Chatas’ senior leadership team, Hewlett will manage several critical areas in the university’s finance division. His responsibilities will span purchasing, procurement, accounting, payroll, and the oversight of external audited financial statements, among others. He will also handle internal controls, sponsored programs, real estate, tax management, treasury functions, financial planning and analysis, and enterprise strategic risk management.
This role, titled vice president, non-executive officer, is a new designation approved by the Board of Regents in February. Those appointed under this title report directly to an executive officer or the president, without holding the status or authority of an executive officer.
The formal recognition of Hewlett’s appointment is scheduled for the Regents’ meeting in September.
