BURKE, INC. NAMES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO

Burke, Inc. announces the promotion of Tara Marotti to President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the retirement of current CEO Diane Surette after 29 years with the company. The change will be effective September 29, 2025.

“Tara is an inspiring leader, who has forged strong partnerships with our clients and earned the trust and respect of our employees,” said Diane Surette, Burke’s current CEO. “Her ability to read the market and create strategic plans that allow our organization to navigate the changing business environment, combined with her strong business acumen, makes her the ideal candidate for the CEO role. Whether integrating new businesses or building coalitions across the organization, Tara drives strategic change to successful outcomes. Tara has a clear vision for the future, and I am certain she will elevate the organization while ensuring Burke continues to deliver the insights, strategy, innovation, and training solutions that our clients expect from us.”

Ms. Marotti is currently serving as Burke’s President. Over the past 30 years, she has held a variety of positions throughout the company and previously served as Head of Client Services (2015) and Chief Client Officer (2019). She earned an MBA at the University of Cincinnati and holds bachelor’s degrees in marketing and human resources from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.  She has served on Burke’s Board of Directors since 2014.

“I am honored to lead Burke and work alongside our exceptional executive team to build on the company’s success,” said Ms. Marotti. “Diane has been an extraordinary mentor and visionary leader.  Under her guidance, the organization has thrived and transformed intentionally to position us for growth. I am excited to continue Burke’s legacy of success and lead us as we continue to evolve and grow.”

Ms. Surette joined the organization in 1996. Her responsibilities have included serving as Head of Client Services (2008) and Chief Client Officer (2017) for the company prior to becoming President (2018) and CEO (2019).  She has served on Burke’s Board of Directors since 2007. Before joining Burke, Ms. Surette was a consultant with Organizational Effectiveness Consultants.

Ms. Surette has helped propel the company forward through her focus on strategic planning, technology, and innovation, creating a solid infrastructure that supports growth. She has positioned the organization to better address future opportunities and challenges by driving efficiencies, promoting cross-functional alignment, and creating and sustaining a culture of collaboration. In addition, Ms. Surette has a genuine passion for nurturing talent within our team, helping employees flourish in their careers and discover their strengths.  Her vision for growth has enabled the organization to better serve its clients by providing insights and strategies that drive informed decision-making and business growth.

“Although I feel honored to have led the organization, I believe the time to leave is when you know the organization is ready for the next chapter,” said Ms. Surette. “I’ve loved my time at Burke and working alongside all the wonderful people who make Burke so special. I’m certain the team will continue to achieve great success, and I look forward to seeing Burke thrive in the future.”