Governor Rell Announces Commissioner Change
at Department of Banking

September 27, 2006

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced State Banking Commissioner John P. Burke will be retiring at the end of September after nearly 12 years of service and that longtime Department of Banking administrator Howard Pitkin of Vernon will be named acting Commissioner. 

“Jack has been an outstanding commissioner,” Governor Rell said.  “His honesty, integrity and commitment to the citizens of the state is something all of us in public service can aspire to.  I thank him for his exceptional service to the state of Connecticut and wish him all the best in his retirement.

“We are naming an experienced professional to fill Jack’s big shoes.  Howard has dedicated his life to this industry, he fully understands how the department runs and I am quite confident that he will skillfully lead the agency on behalf of Connecticut taxpayers.”

Pitkin, 59, began working at the Connecticut Department of Banking in 1977.  In a 29-year career, he directed the department’s Banking Examination Division, oversaw regulatory policy and department budgets and handled the department’s daily operations in the Commissioner’s absence. 

Named Chief of Administration in 2004, Pitkin successfully restructured the department’s Bank Examination and Credit Union Divisions into a new Financial Institutions Division to improve supervision and achieve cost efficiencies.

Burke was appointed Commissioner of the Department of Banking in 1994, was reappointed in 1999, and was then reappointed to a third term as Commissioner in 2003.  He brought 30 years of banking experience in Connecticut to the position, including 11 years spent as a bank president and chief executive officer.

“The Banking Department has truly provided and I am sure will continue to provide excellent service for all our constituencies, giving assistance when needed, protecting the unaware consumer, helping our registrants do a better job and being tough with those who didn't want our help,” stated Commissioner Burke. “I look forward to what my new adventure of retirement will bring to me, but will always look back on these twelve years with joy and the pleasure of having served the people of Connecticut.”