Diocese names new chief operating and financial officer

William J. (Bill) Barbera has been named the new chief operating and financial officer of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, Bishop Shelton J. Fabre announced last month. Barbera previously served the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux under Bishop Emeritus Sam G. Jacobs from 2003-2008 as business manager, member of the bishop’s cabinet, consultant to the finance council and cemeteries trust board, and trustee on the priests’ pension trust, as well as coordinator of Administration Ministries.

“I believe I speak for the rest of our diocesan staff in saying that it is with great excitement that we welcome Bill back to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux,” says Bishop Fabre. “He served us with distinction a number of years ago and we are pleased that he has agreed to return in this new and expanded role. I am confident that his leadership ability and financial skill set will be a great asset to the diocese.”

Since 2008, Barbera has been serving as the senior vice-president and chief financial officer of United Community Bank in Raceland. During this time, he has also served on the boards of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux and the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana.

The Napoleonville native is a graduate of E.D. White Catholic High School in Thibodaux. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance with a minor in accounting, along with post graduate credits from Nicholls State University in Thibodaux.

After serving active duty in the United States Army where he achieved the rank of captain, he began a career in the banking and financial services industry that spans nearly 35 years.

“I am extremely excited to serve our church and Bishop Fabre during this challenging, yet exciting time,” says Barbera. “The full implementation of the strategic planning initiative, a monumental effort of so many faithful people, along with a focus on the operational reform progress in the last few years under the guidance of Jon Toups (Barbera’s predecessor as chief operating and financial officer) will be our immediate focus. I look forward to working alongside Bishop Fabre as he continues to shepherd his flock.”

Barbera currently resides in Thibodaux with his wife of 39 years, Dawn Dugas Barbera, where they are parishioners of St. Genevieve Church. The couple has three adult sons, Josh, 39; Blake, 36; and Jordan, 30; and three granddaughters, Hailey, 8; Jenna, 4; and Ciara, 1.