Brenda Konopelko, CPA - Experienced Chief Financial Officer
Professional Overview
Brenda Konopelko is an accomplished Chief Financial Officer with over 15 years of experience driving financial strategy and operational excellence in the education and non-profit sectors. As a strategic finance leader, she leverages her expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, and risk management to optimize organizational performance and support mission-critical initiatives.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at Lincoln School since 2019, Brenda oversees all aspects of the school's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and internal controls. She has been instrumental in implementing cutting-edge financial systems and processes to enhance transparency and operational efficiency. Under her leadership, Lincoln School has achieved significant cost savings while maintaining a strong financial position.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Brenda served as the CFO at ADI Energy, where she played a key role in the company's expansion and successful acquisition. She has also held finance leadership positions at St. George's School and The Redwood Library & Athenaeum, where she spearheaded initiatives to streamline accounting practices and optimize resource allocation.
Additionally, Brenda has served as an Adjunct Faculty member at the Community College of Rhode Island, sharing her financial expertise with the next generation of business professionals.
Academic Background
Brenda holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from the University of Rhode Island. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has continually expanded her knowledge through various professional development programs.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Internal controls and risk management
- Process improvement and automation
- Strategic financial planning
- Team leadership and mentorship
Professional Impact
Under Brenda's financial stewardship, Lincoln School has achieved a strong financial position, enabling the institution to invest in critical infrastructure and program development. Her contributions have been recognized through her selection as a panelist at the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Finance Conference, where she shared best practices and insights with her peers.
Conclusion
Brenda Konopelko is a versatile CFO with a proven track record of driving financial excellence and operational efficiency in the education and non-profit sectors. Her strategic mindset, technical expertise, and collaborative leadership style make her a valuable asset to any organization seeking to achieve sustainable growth and financial stability.
