Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago has 5 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, operational management, strategic leadership, information security, and accounting services.

Committed to serving over one million people annually, Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago delivers essential social services through 150 programs across Cook and Lake counties to foster community well-being.

Leadership Roles at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago

  • Chief Financial Officer - William Phelan
  • Chief Operating Officer - Patrick Dunne
  • President & Chief Operating Officer - Todd Maxwell
  • Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer - Frank Burr
  • Accounting Professional - Cynthia Smetana
  • William Phelan - Chief Financial Officer

    William Phelan, the Chief Financial Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, manages the fiscal health of the organization. Phelan directs all budgetary planning, ensuring resources reach critical programs like nutrition services and senior housing. By overseeing financial reporting and audit compliance, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency for donors and stakeholders. This leadership role involves allocating funds across 150 distinct programs to maximize social impact throughout the region. William Phelan monitors economic trends to safeguard the long-term sustainability of charitable initiatives. Through rigorous financial analysis, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of health fairs and immigration assistance. Phelan coordinates with the board to align fiscal strategies with the mission of serving vulnerable populations. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to maintain high-quality service delivery for low-income families and seniors across the entire service area.

    Patrick Dunne - Chief Operating Officer

    Patrick Dunne, the Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, executes the daily logistics of the organization. Dunne manages the internal infrastructure required to support food pantries and childcare facilities. By streamlining service delivery, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that programs reach those in need efficiently. This leadership role involves coordinating staff and volunteer efforts across Cook and Lake counties to maintain consistent service quality. Patrick Dunne oversees the operational workflows that allow for the rapid deployment of resources during community health crises. The Chief Operating Officer evaluates program performance metrics to identify areas for improvement in service accessibility. Dunne collaborates with department heads to refine the delivery of HIV/AIDS counseling and refugee assistance. Through constant process optimization, the Chief Operating Officer drives the operational excellence necessary to support the mission of providing aid regardless of faith or background.

    Todd Maxwell - President & Chief Operating Officer

    Todd Maxwell, the President & Chief Operating Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, architects the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Maxwell directs the expansion of social service programs, ensuring alignment with the needs of low-income communities. By leading the executive team, the President & Chief Operating Officer fosters a culture of service and accountability. This leadership role involves representing the organization in regional partnerships to enhance the reach of senior housing and nutrition initiatives. Todd Maxwell evaluates the efficacy of all 150 programs to ensure maximum impact for the one million people served annually. The President & Chief Operating Officer manages high-level relationships with community leaders to secure support for ongoing charitable efforts. Through strategic planning, Maxwell guides the organization toward sustainable growth. Ultimately, the President & Chief Operating Officer ensures that every initiative remains true to the core mission of providing compassionate care to all individuals.
    Todd Maxwell

    Frank Burr - Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer

    Frank Burr, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, directs the digital infrastructure and data protection protocols. Burr manages the secure storage of sensitive client information for programs like immigration assistance and health services. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer protects the integrity of the organization against digital threats. This leadership role involves modernizing technology systems to improve the efficiency of program tracking and reporting. Frank Burr oversees the deployment of software solutions that facilitate communication between staff and volunteers across multiple counties. The Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer ensures that all digital platforms remain compliant with privacy regulations. Through technological innovation, Burr supports the seamless delivery of essential services. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer maintains the digital foundation required to serve the diverse needs of the community.

    Cynthia Smetana - Accounting Professional

    Cynthia Smetana, the Accounting Professional at Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago, manages the precise recording of financial transactions. Smetana oversees the reconciliation of accounts related to food and clothing pantry operations. By maintaining accurate ledgers, the Accounting Professional ensures that every dollar is accounted for within the organization. This leadership role involves preparing detailed financial statements that support the broader fiscal goals of the agency. Cynthia Smetana monitors expenditures for childcare and senior housing programs to prevent budget variances. The Accounting Professional collaborates with the finance department to streamline payroll and vendor payments. Through meticulous attention to detail, Smetana provides the data necessary for informed decision-making by senior leadership. The Accounting Professional ensures that all financial records meet regulatory standards for non-profit organizations. Ultimately, Smetana supports the financial stability required to continue providing vital services to the community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago?
    Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago is led by William Phelan (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Dunne (Chief Operating Officer) and Todd Maxwell (President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago’s executive team?
    The executive team of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago includes leaders such as William Phelan (Chief Financial Officer), Patrick Dunne (Chief Operating Officer), Todd Maxwell (President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago have?
    Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Catholic Charities of Archdiocese of Chicago includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President & Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer & Chief Security Officer, Accounting Professional.