New assistant VP for Business and Finance named

Jim Bachmeier, vice president for Finance and Administration, has appointed Brian C. Copeland to assistant vice president for Business and Finance.

“Brian will be an outstanding addition to Grand Valley,” Bachmeier said. “Brian has significant experience in leading and directing financial activities for the past 18 years for Display Pack, a manufacturing company in Grand Rapids, and will be a valuable member of my senior management team.”

In his new role, Copeland will have a wide range of responsibilities including Accounting (Accounts payable, Accounts receivable, Payroll, and Student Accounts) and Business Services (Contractual services, Purchasing, Risk management, Vending, Food service, Conference & Event Planning services and Bookstore). He will also serve as assistant treasurer, Board of Trustees.

Copeland will replace Jim Bachmeier, who was promoted to vice president for Finance and Administration in December. Copeland has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan University and is also a Certified Public Accountant. He has been director of Finance and Administration for Display Pack, Inc, of Grand Rapids since 1989 with broad leadership experience in purchasing, risk management, human resources, quality control, computer services and logistics. 

Copeland has been varsity tennis coach for East Kentwood High School, and coached the AYSO, Kentwood Soccer Club and Kentwood Baseball League.