Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Secretary-designee Cheryll Olson-Collins has appointed Michelle Knuese to lead the organization’s Division of Corporate and Consumer Services as administrator.
Knuese is filling the vacancy left by DFI Deputy Secretary Patti Epstein, who was appointed deputy secretary in January. Prior to her appointment, Knuese held several leadership roles in budget, finance, and program management to government entities in Wisconsin and Arizona. She’s managed multiple budgets for the Waukesha County Department of Administration in Waukesha, Wis., and led the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services’ Division of Professional Credential Processing as the division’s administrator. She’s also served in the areas of budget and policy for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Earlier in her career, Knuese served in management and administrative roles for Maricopa County in Phoenix. Knuese has a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and a master’s in public administration from Western International University.
“Michelle is a great addition to the DFI leadership team with her extensive leadership experience in state government and her commitment to serving the people of Wisconsin,” Olson-Collins said. “Michelle is known for her ability to motivate staff and create inclusive environments. I’m confident she will do a great job leading the DFI’s Division of Corporate and Consumer Services.”