UA Hires Dan Layzell As Next Chief Business Officer

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama on Tuesday announced that Dan Layzell has been hired as vice president for Finance and Operations and treasurer.

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His first day on the job will be Sept. 30, pending approval by the Compensation Committee of The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees.

As UA's chief business officer, Layzell will lead the university's Division of Finance and Operations, which includes more than 1,300 team members across nine departments, including all aspects of finance, business analytics and process improvement, compliance and risk services, campus development, enterprise operations, facilities and grounds, human resources, public safety, and shared administrative services.

“Dr. Layzell’s extensive experience and proven leadership in higher education finance and operations make him a tremendous addition to our team,” UA President Stuart R. Bell said. “His strategic vision, track record of financial stewardship and commitment to fostering innovative partnerships will be key in enhancing our operational excellence and driving our mission forward.”

UA says Layzell brings more than two decades of experience in administration, strategic planning and financial oversight in higher education, coming to UA from Appalachian State University where he was appointed vice chancellor of finance and operations in 2022.

Layzell previously served in executive financial leadership roles at Louisiana State University, Illinois State University and Cornell College before his time at Appalachian State.

“The University has a tremendous profile nationally and internationally, and the positive momentum here only continues to grow,” Layzell said. “I am excited to become part of Dr. Bell’s leadership team and look forward to the important work ahead to keep UA moving onward and upward.”

At Appalachian State, Layzell was responsible for a staff of more than 500 employees in the Division of Finance and Operations. He also led public-private partnership initiatives to finance and develop a faculty-staff housing complex and a zero-carbon district energy system in the university’s Innovation District.

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