DENTON (UNT), Texas -- Robert A. Watling has been named the Vice Provost for Academic Resources at the University of North Texas. In this position, he will serve as the chief academic budget and human resources officer.

"Robert Watling has the key experience in finance that is crucial to this position," said Finley Graves, provost and vice president for academic affairs at UNT. "His keen sense of business and deep understanding of higher education will help improve UNT's business practices and lead to new opportunities."

Watling has more than 15 years of financial management and institutional strategic planning experience, primarily in higher education settings. He came to UNT from North Carolina State University, where he was the assistant dean for business operations in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He was also the assistant vice president for student affairs at Southern Methodist University, chief financial officer for the Division of Student Life at Emory University in Atlanta and finance director at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

"The University of North Texas is the kind of institution that has an outstanding reputation nationwide, but it also has a wonderful hometown feel," said Watling. "UNT's strong history of supporting veterans like myself was a major part of my decision to come here. I am truly excited to bring my experience in strategic planning and budget analysis to this university and I look forward to helping streamline our business process and brightening our future."

A certified public accountant, Watling received his bachelor's degree in public administration from George Mason University and master of business administration degree in finance from Virginia Tech University.