Indianapolis-based Conexus Indiana named Jay Wirts president and CEO, effective April 14.
Wirts succeeds Fred Cartwright, who retired at the end of 2024. Wirts brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience in the advanced manufacturing sector to his new role.
“Jay’s extensive experience and passion for advancing industrial innovation make him an ideal leader for Conexus Indiana,” said Scott Brand, Conexus Indiana board of directors chair, in a press release. “We are confident that his strategic vision and collaborative approach will further accelerate our mission to strengthen Indiana’s manufacturing and logistics sectors.”
Melina Kennedy, CEO of Conexus Indiana’s parent organization, the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, welcomed Wirts to his new role.
“Jay’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for Indiana’s manufacturing and logistics industries,” Kennedy said. “As Conexus continues its laser focus on enhancing productivity and developing a skilled talent pipeline, his expertise will be instrumental in advancing our shared efforts to drive industry growth across the state.”
Wirts previously served as executive vice president of Smart Infrastructure Solutions at Belden. He oversaw a $1.2 billion global business that designs and manufactures broadband and network infrastructure. Wirts led initiatives to expand automation, optimize supply chain operations and establish partnerships to advance fiber technology manufacturing. His efforts included opening a Fiber Technology Center in collaboration with the University of Arizona.
“As a chosen Hoosier, I am honored to join Conexus Indiana and contribute to the growth and innovation of our state’s manufacturing and logistics industries,” Wirts said. “Indiana has long been a leader in these sectors, and I am excited to work alongside our dynamic industry, academic, philanthropic and public sector partners—and the talented team at Conexus—to build on this strong foundation.”
Wirts earned a master’s degree in finance and marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Colgate University. A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Wirts served as a company and platoon commander. He led multiple deployments across the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
The Central Indiana Corporate Partnership was formed in 1999. It bring together executives from the Region’s corporations, foundations and universities to advance Indiana’s prosperity and growth. The partnership sponsors five talent and industry sector initiatives: AgriNovus Indiana, Ascend Indiana, BioCrossroads, Conexus Indiana and TechPoint.
