Get to Know the ADF: Benjamin Leschke

As an organisation dedicated to fuelling Catholic mission, we want to introduce you to the people who are behind the flexible solutions, strategic advice and specialised services, and who help to deliver a different set of dividends for those we serve.  

Meet Benjamin! 
 
Benjamin has recently commenced with the ADF as our new Parish Advancement Manager – a role perfectly suited to his passion for people, systems and parish life. Although he officially joined the ADF full-time in September, Benjamin is no stranger to the Archdiocese of Brisbane. For the past 15 months he has worked part-time with the team while also serving as Operations Manager in the Ipswich Parish. 

In his new role, Benjamin is focused on helping parishes flourish. He is dedicated to building strong relationships with parish teams, collaborating closely with our ADF Relationship Managers, improving processes and operational efficiencies, and ensuring parishes are well supported in fuelling their Catholic mission. His work also bridges parishes with Archdiocesan agencies and services, creating smoother pathways for the people who serve our communities every day. 

Benjamin brings decades of experience in relationship management and project management, with expertise in process modelling and implementing change across both customer-facing and behind-the-scenes operations.  

His last ten years working directly in a parish gave him invaluable insight into the real needs and challenges of parish life. Combined with his pastoral experience – including roles as a pastoral assistant and coordinator of Sacramental Programs and RCIA – Benjamin brings both practical expertise and a compassionate understanding of ministry. 

What fulfils him most in his work is seeing the impact of meaningful support.  

“When a parish staff member or priest who’s been stretched thin suddenly has breathing space because of improvements we’ve introduced – that’s incredibly rewarding, he says.  

It means they can focus on what really matters: ministry and community.” 

Looking ahead, Benjamin sees great potential for the ADF to continue strengthening the way it supports parishes. He is passionate about reducing silos, shaping a clear service philosophy, and recognising the vital role parish teams play – not just as administrators but as coordinators, animators, and the heartbeat of local church life. His vision is to help build systems and processes that genuinely empower parish staff to thrive. 

Outside of work, Benjamin brings the same hands-on energy to his personal life. A keen Lego enthusiast and lover of outdoor projects, he tackles most of his home renovations himself – especially landscaping and timber work. Then, when the workday is done, his favourite way to unwind is simple: spending time with his wife and children.  

We’re thrilled to have Benjamin on board and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to bring to parishes across the Archdiocese of Brisbane.