Indianapolis’ Browning names new CFO

After 36 years, David Gabovitch is stepping down as chief financial officer of Indianapolis real estate development firm Browning. Matt Lesher joined the firm as chief financial officer on Oct. 16.

Gabovitch joined the firm as a staff accountant in 1983 and was named chief financial officer in 1986.

“I can’t overstate how integral David has been to the growth, success and culture of Browning,” said Browning president and chief executive officer John Hirschman, in a statement. “With his calm demeaner, great sense of humor, commitment to the community, and ability to see through the noise and complications and get to the heart of any issue, David has been a key leader with the firm. Without David, Browning would not be what it is today.”

A CPA with a law degree, Lesher has served as chief financial officer for Indiana firms Standard Locknut; Small Parts, Inc.; Silver Towne, LP; and Tetherball. As an attorney with Faegre Baker Daniels, he led many significant real estate and financing transactions.

A South Bend native, Lesher earned a law degree at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law and an undergraduate degree at IU’s Kelly School of Business. He received his CPA in 2001 and started his professional career at Ernst & Young. He’s active in many civic and philanthropic organizations.