Phoenix diocesan communications director is new CMA executive director
CHICAGO (CNS) — Rob DeFrancesco, communications director for the Diocese of Phoenix, said he was “eager to work” with the staff of the Catholic Media Association as the Chicago-based organization’s new executive director.
“I attribute many of the blessings in my life to my involvement” with the CMA, he said Nov. 4, adding he is grateful “for this opportunity.”
Two days earlier, Amy Kawula, CMA’s president, announced DeFrancesco had been named to head the organization, effective Nov. 15. DeFrancesco succeeds Tim Walter, who is retiring after 13 years in the post.
Kawula said she was “beyond delighted to announce” that “a familiar face in the CMA” was chosen for the position after a six-month nationwide search.
DeFrancesco “has been a member for more than 20 years and served as president of the board” and “brings two decades of leadership and media experience” to his new job, added Kawula, who is the advertising and marketing manager of The Compass, newspaper of the Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
“Rob’s ability to quickly develop and maintain strong relationships with members, sponsors and other key leaders will be critical to the transition of this position,” she said, adding that “to ensure a smooth transition,” Walter will work with DeFrancesco on a part-time basis through Dec. 31.
