Chief Executive Officer

Hoosier Cancer Research Network (HCRN) announced that Brian Stemme has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Stemme, widely regarded as a champion of Indiana’s life sciences industry, will succeed Executive Director Cyndi Burkhardt, RN, who announced her retirement earlier this year. Stemme will assume responsibilities on Monday, August 29.

Stemme comes to HCRN from BioCrossroads, an organization that advances Indiana’s life sciences industry, and one of the sector initiatives of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP).

“Brian will bring a wealth of industry knowledge and strategic and leadership skills to HCRN,” said Chairman of the Board Christopher A. Fausel, PharmD, MHA, BCOP. “The board believes Brian is a great fit to lead the Network through its next strategic phase.”

As senior vice president for external engagement for BioCrossroads, Stemme led CICP’s efforts to attract and retain life sciences investments in Indiana for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, including the recruitment of Abbott Cardiovascular, Telix Pharmaceuticals and List Biotherapeutics to Indiana. In addition, Stemme also directed key early-stage activities for the 16 Tech Innovation District in Indianapolis, including recruitment of prospective life sciences tenants.

“Brian is passionate about promoting the untapped potential of the region’s health care organizations and talent. He brings with him a history of collaboration and a great appreciation for the power of public and private partnerships in helping patients,” said Chris LeMasters, member of the Hoosier Cancer Research Network Board of Directors. “Brian is an empathetic and dynamic leader, and I expect that he will further HCRN’s mission of advancing cancer research with energy and compassion.”

During his 18 years at BioCrossroads, Stemme co-founded and launched AgriNovus Indiana, an economic development entity that leverages Indiana’s strengths in agricultural innovation and supported BioCrossroads investment in early-stage companies. Previously, Stemme worked at Eli Lilly and Company in corporate affairs and finance.

Stemme is a member of the Butler University Board of Trustees, his undergraduate alma mater, and was president of the university’s alumni association from 2005 to 2008. He has also served as a member of the Executive Advisory Board for the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association.

“HCRN has a strong history, compelling mission, and talented staff who work with cancer researchers across the nation to gather and analyze data to support new treatments for cancer patients. I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead this outstanding organization,” said Stemme.