Christine Birch, CPA

Chief Operating Officer Indianapolis

Summary

Chris Birch is a CPA. She began her career in public accounting at Price Waterhouse. Prior to joining Taft, Chris spent 22 years at Bose McKinney & Evans in the roles of Controller and Chief Financial Officer.

During her tenure at Bose McKinney & Evans, Chris oversaw the Finance and Benefit areas and worked with the Executive Committee on strategic and administrative planning initiatives, attorney and staff compensation and benefit offerings, financial budgeting, and compliance.

Chris joined Taft in August of 2016 as the Chief Financial Officer. Chris was responsible for financial reporting, budget development and measurement, payroll, tax reporting, benefit plan compliance, and client intake. She participated as a member of the Senior Leadership Team and oversaw human resources and benefits.

Chris was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in late 2017. Her areas of oversight include IT, Human Resources, Finance, Benefits and Compliance, Facilities, and Knowledge Resources. She collaborates with the Firm’s Executive Committee and Partner Compensation Committees. Chris partners with the Firm’s Risk Management Committee and serves on the Firm’s strategic combination and Finance Committees.

During her time at Taft, Chris has assisted with the move from a two-tier to a one-tier partnership. She assists with governance issues and serves on the Succession Planning Committee. Chris spearheaded the revamping of the non-attorney review process and Firm policies. As a member of the Associate and Of Counsel Committees, she analyzes growth opportunities and compensation policies.

Chris has been a member of the Indiana Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators since 2003 and served on the Chapter’s board as treasurer, president-elect, president, and past president. Chris has volunteered in several different capacities for the Heroes Foundation since 2001 and represents Team Heroes in swimming, cycling, running, and triathlon races. Chris actively supports the Indiana special needs community and served on the boards of Indiana Special Olympics from 1996-2005 and the Indiana Chapter of Best Buddies from 2006-2012.

Awards

  • Honoree, IBJ Women of Influence, 2019

Education

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Indiana
  • Ohio University, Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

Professional Affiliations

  • Association of Legal Administrators

    Member

Community Involvement

  • Team Heroes Cycling and Triathlon Team

    Member