INDIANAPOLIS, IND.- Dr. Charles L. Venable, The Melvin & Bren Simon Director and CEO of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, announced today that Jeremiah “Jerry” Wise has been named the Museum’s Chief Financial Officer following an extensive search. He will begin at the IMA September 9.

In association with Venable and the IMA’s Investment and Finance Committees, Wise will manage the IMA’s investment and debt portfolios, annual budget and annual audit. Wise will also oversee the museum’s Human Resources Department.

“Jerry’s past performance at the Indiana Public Finance Office and the Indianapolis Airport Authority has been exceptional,” Venable said. “In both of those roles he demonstrated great vision and leadership and implemented complex financial strategies that proved highly beneficial. His entrepreneurial spirit and sound judgment will make him an asset to the IMA during this exciting time for the institution."

Wise comes to the IMA from the Indianapolis Airport Authority, where he served as Treasurer and Director of New Business Development. As Treasurer, Wise implemented the financing plan for the $1.1 billion capital project that culminated in the opening of the new Indianapolis Airport in 2008. As Director of New Business Development, Wise was responsible for creating the award-winning terminal concession program that generates approximately $40 million in annual revenue.

Prior to his work at the Indianapolis Airport Authority, Wise worked for the Indiana Public Finance Office and as an economic consultant for a private firm in Chicago focusing on mergers and acquisitions, cost studies and intellectual property valuation. He holds a B.A. from Yale University and a Master’s of Urban Planning from New York University. Wise also is recognized as a Certified Treasury Professional by the Association for Financial Professionals and is a member of the upcoming Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series Class XXXVIII.

“I am excited to step into this role and look forward to working with Charles Venable, the staff and the Board to further the mission of the IMA,” Wise said. “The IMA has a world-class facility and art collection and is one of the great assets of our region. I am looking forward to being a part of the exceptional team that Venable is assembling to manage the IMA during this next phase of its development.”