Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Dawn Walton is a seasoned finance executive with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. As the Chief Financial Officer at Children's of Alabama, she oversees all financial operations, strategic planning, and risk management for the renowned pediatric healthcare system.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at Children's of Alabama since 2013, Dawn is responsible for managing the organization's $650 million annual budget and leading a team of 35 finance professionals. In this role, she has spearheaded initiatives to enhance financial reporting, streamline procurement processes, and improve operational efficiency, resulting in significant cost savings and improved financial performance. Under her leadership, Children's of Alabama has maintained a strong credit rating and secured favorable financing terms for critical capital projects.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Dawn served as the VP-Controller at Children's of Alabama for over a decade, where she played a pivotal part in implementing robust internal controls, enhancing cash management strategies, and upgrading the organization's financial systems. Her strong track record of driving operational improvements and fiscal responsibility has earned her a reputation as a trusted financial steward within the healthcare industry.
Academic Background
Dawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Alabama and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). She has also completed executive leadership programs at Harvard Business School and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, further strengthening her strategic and management capabilities.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial planning and analysis
- Accounting and reporting
- Treasury management
- Capital project financing
- Risk management
- Process improvement
- Team leadership and development
Professional Impact
Under Dawn's financial leadership, Children's of Alabama has consistently maintained a strong financial position, enabling the organization to invest in cutting-edge medical technologies, expand its facilities, and enhance the quality of care provided to the community. She has been actively involved in several industry associations, serving on the board of the Alabama Hospital Association and contributing to the development of best practices for pediatric healthcare finance.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, deep industry knowledge, and proven track record of driving financial excellence, Dawn Walton is a highly respected finance executive who continues to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape in Alabama and beyond.
