Michael Sheehy is the new executive director of Catholic Charities – Diocese of Des Moines, the nonprofit recently announced. Barbara Quijano Decker announced her retirement in February.

Before joining Catholic Charities, Sheehy had a 27-year career with John Deere Financial, most recently serving as senior group product manager as well as in other previous global leadership roles.

“I look forward to building upon the incredibly strong foundation that Barbara and others have worked hard to form,” Sheehy said in a prepared statement. “The excitement I have for this role is accelerated by the fact that Catholic Charities is in a really great place — we have dedicated staff, strong programs, loyal donors and volunteers — and together we can focus on guiding the organization to even greater success and deepening the impact we have for the community.”

According to a news release, the social ministry nonprofit serves more than 35,000 individuals in Central and Southern Iowa with services, including counseling, emergency family shelter, refugee services and domestic violence and sexual assault services.

“Catholic Charities fills a critical role in our communities — and calls for a versatile, dynamic and seasoned leader. Mike’s faith-filled dedication to our mission and our ministry will prove valuable as we continue to serve our neighbors in need,” said Bishop William M. Joensen of the Diocese of Des Moines and chairman of the Catholic Charities’ board of directors in a prepared statement.