Graeme is a chartered accountant with over thirty years of commercial experience in large corporate businesses and has been a CDF trustee since 2019. Graeme is an active member of the Christchurch North parish and generously gives his time and expertise to its finance team.
He also assists Fr Simon Eccleton and the Clergy Trust Fund in their work. Fr Eccleton stated that he is confident in Graeme’s appointment as the new Board Chair. “Graeme brings a remarkable work ethic and great love of the Church. His leadership will certainly impact the work undertaken by CDF trustees and staff,” he added.
Following the footsteps of previous Board Chair Michael Schimanski, Graeme plans to continue a servant leadership approach. “Like Michael, I prefer bottom-up leadership, supporting everyone in the organisation, rather than a top-down style. I have complete confidence in the professionals managing the Fund. Knowing they will use their initiative and take responsibility for their areas of work is rewarding in itself. This approach empowers our team to achieve more.
“My goal for the CDF is to keep our work relevant to the Catholic community in the Christchurch Diocese. Even during tough times, such as those experienced during Covid-19, a small amount of surplus funds can benefit and strengthen our Catholic community. I believe the CDF offers a genuine opportunity for businesses, schools and individuals throughout the Diocese to contribute at a grassroots level.
Despite these challenging times, we are delighted to have made a healthy distribution to Bishop Michael for the financial year ending 2022.”
Meet the Team
The trustees pictured are Simon Roughan, Kintilla du Boucher-Ryan, CDF Chair Graeme Wilson and Terry Foote.
The CDF is overseen by trustees and staff, guided by an investment policy based on Catholic teaching and expert investment advice from the financial sector. Through careful stewardship and sustainable growth, they enable the increase in the provision and financial support to the Bishop of Christchurch to empower him to fulfil the vision and objectives for the Catholic Diocese of Christchurch.