Dudich, an IU alumnus, will report to IU Vice President for University Relations Michael Huber. He will provide financial management expertise and policy leadership to advance IU's economic engagement initiatives and the university's government relations efforts at the state and federal level.

"Jason has a proven track record as a catalytic leader across sectors including public, private and academia," Huber said. "The experience he brings will help Indiana University strengthen Indiana's economic vitality and improve the lives of Hoosiers across our state.

"We're excited for the work he will lead to ensure that IU — working closely and effectively with leaders in government, business and education — is a powerful engine for economic development in our state."

In his current role, Dudich is responsible for financial operations and management of the $110 million annual operating and capital budget at the University of Indianapolis. He directly oversees human resources, information technology, facilities management, insurance, real estate, endowment management, debt management and vendor management regarding bookstore operations, food services and other auxiliary support services.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Indiana University," Dudich said. "There is a high level of energy and excitement regarding the future of IU and how the university can support and make a positive impact to the state of Indiana.

"As a native Hoosier and graduate of IU, along with working for both state and local government in Indiana, I know how much IU can contribute to the success of Indiana. I am excited to join IU and bring my experience and knowledge to the team to support IU and Indiana moving forward."

From 2017 to 2019, Dudich served as Indiana's budget director, overseeing the state's $34 billion annual operating and capital budget. He collaborated with Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb and staff, the Indiana General Assembly, and state agency directors on fiscal policy, overall budget management and state policy issues.

Dudich has played an instrumental role in advancing the governor's signature economic development program, the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative. He is a member of the READI Review Committee, an external seven-member citizen committee charged with evaluating regional development projects and programs designed to catalyze economic growth and talent development in Indiana. The committee proposes major project and funding recommendations to the Indiana Economic Development Corp. based on its proposal reviews. 

His prior experience includes overseeing the finances and administrations of the state of Illinois, the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the city of Indianapolis and the Office of the Mayor of Indianapolis, where he served as controller and then chief of staff for former Mayor Greg Ballard.

Dudich earned a Bachelor of Science degree in public affairs, public policy and public finance from the IU Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. For more than seven years, he has served on the school's distinguished alumni council.