Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Denise Akason is a seasoned financial executive with extensive expertise in real estate and higher education. As the Chief Financial Officer at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, she oversees the institution's financial operations and strategy. Additionally, she serves as a Managing Director at CNS Real Estate, where she leverages her deep understanding of the industry to drive successful investment and development initiatives.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Chief Financial Officer, Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management (2008 - Present)
- Responsible for the financial management and strategic planning of the prestigious Kellogg School of Management, overseeing a multi-million dollar budget and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources.
- Spearheaded the implementation of innovative financial practices and controls, leading to improved fiscal performance and enhanced operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with university leadership to develop and execute long-term financial strategies, contributing to the school's continued growth and reputation.
Managing Director, CNS Real Estate (2005 - Present)
- Oversees a diverse portfolio of real estate investments and development projects, leveraging market insights and financial expertise to drive profitable growth.
- Leads cross-functional teams in the identification, evaluation, and successful execution of complex real estate transactions, maximizing returns for stakeholders.
- Serves as a trusted advisor, providing strategic guidance and financial analysis to support the firm's strategic decision-making processes.
Previous Roles
Lecturer and Associate Director, Real Estate Center, Kellogg School of Management/Northwestern University (2008 - 2020)
- Taught courses in real estate finance and investment, sharing valuable industry knowledge and practical insights with students.
- Spearheaded the development and expansion of the school's real estate education program, contributing to the program's recognition as a leading center for real estate studies.
Chief Financial Officer, Treatment Magazine (2020 - 2023)
- Provided strategic financial leadership to the leading publication in the healthcare industry, ensuring the organization's financial stability and supporting its growth initiatives.
- Implemented robust financial controls and reporting systems, improving the transparency and accountability of the organization's financial operations.
Litigation Consulting, Arthur Andersen/Coopers and Lybrand (1991 - 1999)
- Provided expert financial and accounting analysis to support legal proceedings, contributing to the successful resolution of complex disputes.
- Developed a strong foundation in financial analysis and problem-solving, which has been instrumental in her subsequent roles.
Real Estate Loan Officer, Mitsubishi Trust and Banking (1989 - 1991)
- Evaluated and underwritten commercial real estate loans, gaining valuable experience in the assessment of property-level risks and the structuring of financing solutions.
Academic Background
Denise Akason holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where she specialized in finance and real estate. She is recognized for her academic achievements and her contributions to the school's renowned real estate program.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial management and strategic planning
- Real estate investment and development
- Litigation consulting and financial analysis
- Higher education administration and program development
- Cross-functional team leadership and collaboration
Professional Impact
- Instrumental in the financial management and strategic direction of the Kellogg School of Management, contributing to the school's continued excellence and growth.
- Recognized as a thought leader in the real estate industry, sharing her expertise through publications, conferences, and education initiatives.
- Played a key role in the successful resolution of complex legal disputes, leveraging her financial acumen and analytical skills.
- Actively engaged in the broader real estate and higher education communities, serving on industry boards and contributing to the advancement of best practices.
Conclusion
Denise Akason is a versatile and accomplished financial executive with a proven track record of success in both the real estate and higher education sectors. Her strategic vision, financial expertise, and industry leadership have contributed to the growth and success of the organizations she has served. Denise's commitment to excellence and her ability to drive meaningful impact make her a valuable asset to any organization.
