News Story

The Board of Regents approved the appointment of Robert “Bobby” Hewlett III as executive vice president and chief financial officer at its Sept. 17 meeting. Hewlett, who has served in the role on an interim basis since November 2025, will begin a five-year term Oct. 1.

As one of three executive vice presidents reporting directly to the university president, Hewlett serves as the president’s principal adviser on financial strategy and management.

“Bobby has demonstrated sound judgment, steady leadership and a deep commitment to Michigan throughout his years of service,” said President Domenico Grasso. “His extensive knowledge of the university and disciplined approach to financial leadership will help ensure that we remain well positioned to advance our mission.”

Hewlett oversees the university’s investment office, finance, staff ombuds, facilities and campus operations, planning and strategic initiatives, campus sustainability and innovation, human resources, and shared services.

“I am humbled and honored to continue serving the University of Michigan in this role,” Hewlett said. “I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students, university leaders and the Board of Regents to responsibly steward the university’s resources, strengthen its operations and support the extraordinary work taking place across our campuses and health system.”

“Bobby brings extensive financial expertise, a strong understanding of this complex institution and a proven ability to lead collaboratively,” said Katherine E. White,  chair of the Finance, Audit and Investment Committee for the Board of Regents. “I look forward to working with him and benefiting from the thoughtful guidance he will bring to the university’s financial strategy.”

Hewlett joined Michigan Medicine in January 2011 and has held several financial leadership positions at U-M. He served as Michigan Medicine’s controller before becoming interim associate vice president for finance in December 2024 and vice president for finance in July 2025. He has served as interim EVPCFO since November 2025. His Michigan Medicine work included financial oversight and support for affiliation strategy, including due diligence and valuations.

Before joining U-M, Hewlett worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers, advising clients on financial reporting, debt issuances, tax analyses and business integrations.

His outside involvement has included service on the Michigan Dialysis Services board, the Chelsea Community Hospital board finance committee and the governance committee for U-M’s pediatric joint venture with Trinity Health–Oakland.

Hewlett earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in accounting from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business. Each degree was awarded with high distinction. He is a licensed certified public accountant in Michigan and completed the GE HealthCare and Health Management Academy Finance Fellowship.