Wayne State University President M. Roy Wilson announces the appointment of William Decatur as vice president for finance and business operations, treasurer and chief financial officer, effective May 29, 2015.

He replaces Rick Nork, who is retiring this year.

The vice president for finance and business operations is the chief financial and business officer of Wayne State University. Reporting to the president, the vice president is responsible for business and auxiliary operations, fiscal operations, investment, debt and risk management, facilities planning and management, human resources, procurement and strategic sourcing, and real estate. This position is a key strategic and managerial role at Wayne State University.

The vice president also serves as treasurer of the university's Board of Governors and holds the same position on the board of the university's foundation. 

"We are pleased to welcome William to our leadership team. His business acumen, experience and track record in higher education, in particular, will provide a formula for success as the university moves forward," said President M. Roy Wilson. "

Decatur, who has more than 30 years of financial management experience, recently served as senior vice president for finance and administration and chief financial officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, overseeing the major operational units in the division. He also has held similar leadership positions at various higher education institutions, including Rhode Island School of Design, Ohio University, the University of Toledo, Georgia State University and Shawnee State University. In addition, he served in the Ohio Office of Budget and Management.

"I count it a privilege to join the leadership team and contribute toward the high academic and operational standards of Wayne State University," Decatur said. "These are exciting and challenging times in higher education that require creative strategies and commitment. I'm looking forward to serving the university and being associated with an institution that also is a major player in Detroit's reinvention."

Decatur received his law degree and a master's in public administration from The Ohio State University and his undergraduate degree from Miami University of Ohio.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering more than 380 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 28,000 students.