New chief financial officer of Archdiocese of Indianapolis connects faith to work

By John Shaughnessy

Brian Burkert views his appointment as the new chief financial officer of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis as an opportunity to live his faith through his work.

“I’ve been a Catholic my whole life,” Burkert said. “The Catholic culture is something I embrace and want to be a part of. And I want to serve. I’m excited.”

In making the announcement of Burkert’s selection on Oct. 29, Bishop Christopher J. Coyne praised him as “a well-qualified and faith-filled financial leader.

“Brian is a certified public accountant with almost 30 years of experience in accounting, finance and management, including positions of leadership with the Indiana Department of Transportation, Principal Wellness Company, the Molloy Companies, National City Corporation and Merchants National Corporation,” said Bishop Coyne, apostolic administrator of the archdiocese.

Burkert will start his new position on Nov. 12. He is a 1979 graduate of Roncalli High School and a 1983 graduate of Marian University, both in Indianapolis. He and his wife of 28 years, Paula, have three children, Katy, Marco and Clare. Their children have either graduated from or now attend Bishop Chatard High School in Indianapolis. They are members of St. Matthew the Apostle Parish in Indianapolis.

That strong Catholic connection will be Burkert’s focus as he directs the financial interests and operations of the archdiocese.

“When you make financial decisions, it won’t just be on the financial aspects,” said Burkert, who is 51. “It will be on Catholic values—protecting the poor and helping people as much as you can—while being fiscally sound.”

In listing his strengths, Burkert included the ability to relate well with people.

“My roles have required me to work with many audiences and under many circumstances,” he noted. “I’m comfortable establishing and nurturing relationships, and have a commitment to outstanding service. I’m committed to working hands-on with everyone.”

He also stressed his problem-solving skills.

“I’ve effectively managed lean staffs to maintain balance between effective customer service and bottom line results,” he said. “I’ll do what I say I’ll do with a strong work ethic.”

Burkert fills the position previously held by Jeffrey D. Stumpf, who left the archdiocese in May to accept a similar leadership role with the Indiana University Foundation.

Bishop Coyne thanked David Milroy for serving as the interim chief financial officer. During the search process, Milroy also continued his duties in leading the archdiocese’s Office of Stewardship and Development. †