DWD commish to step down, lead United Way
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Indiana Department of Workforce Development Commissioner Fred Payne is stepping down from his post next month to take over as president and chief executive officer of United Way of Central Indiana. Payne will succeed outgoing United Way President and CEO Ann Murtlow, who retires June 30 after nine years with the nonprofit.
Payne was appointed DWD commissioner by Governor Eric Holcomb in December 2017.
“Throughout the unforeseen challenges of the past few years, Fred has adeptly propelled this agency to provide not only unemployment benefits, but training that has helped thousands of Hoosiers pursue training pathways that have led to careers and helped unleash their full potential,” said Holcomb.
Payne oversaw the agency responsible for Indiana’s employment and re-employment services, with more than 1,000 employees. He was the administration’s point person during the pandemic as hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers sought unemployment benefits.
Before joining DWD, Payne spent more than a decade at Honda Motor Manufacturing of Indiana in various roles, including chief administrator, general counsel and compliance officer.
“With his demonstrated leadership in the public and private sector, data-driven philosophy and passion for community service, Fred is the right choice for United Way,” said United Way Board Chair Rafael Sanchez. “Additionally, Fred is committed to building on United Way’s legacy of collaboration within the human services sector to address Central Indiana’s toughest issues.”