Office of University Communications 

Steve Foucart named controller at Missouri State

SPRINGFIELD — Steve Foucart, former chief financial officer at Willow Brook Foods in Springfield, has been named the new controller at Missouri State. Foucart replaces Nila Hayes, who was named the university’s new chief financial officer on Thursday (July 24).

“Steve will be a great addition to our staff,” said Missouri State President Michael T. Nietzel.  “He is an active citizen in Springfield and has an excellent reputation in the business and financial communities. All of us look forward to working with him.”

Foucart (pronounced FOE-cart) will begin his duties Aug. 1. His appointment must be approved by the Board of Governors, which next meets on Aug. 1.

The controller is responsible for supervising many of the daily activities in financial services. The controller also assists in the development of long-range financial planning by evaluating and making recommendations regarding various cash management programs and exercises general responsibility for the university’s cash management programs.

Foucart had worked in the food industry from 1985 until Willow Brook was purchased and the Springfield operation was closed. He had been CFO at Willow Brook Foods since January 1999. Prior to that, he was executive vice president and chief operating officer for Sunday House Foods, Inc. from August 1992 to December 1998, and in several positions for Granada Corporation/Granada Foods Corporation from 1985-92. Foucart started his career with Union Texas Petroleum Corporation, serving in several different roles from 1979-85.

During his career, Foucart has worked internationally, especially in Mexico, and played lead roles in corporation mergers.

Foucart received his bachelor of business administration degree from Texas A&M University in 1979 and his M.B.A. from the University of Houston-Clear Lake in 1983.

“I am excited to begin my career with Missouri State University,” said Foucart. “With an annual operating budget of $244 million and more than 21,000 students, Missouri State University plays a vital role in educating our future leaders while providing a significant economic impact for the city of Springfield and the state of Missouri. It will be an honor and privilege to serve Missouri State University and I look forward to working with the faculty and staff.”