James Blaha

Vice President Finance & Administration/CFO

Professional Overview
James Blaha is an accomplished financial executive with extensive experience in the non-profit and healthcare industries. As the Vice President of Finance & Administration and Chief Financial Officer, he demonstrates a strong track record of driving strategic financial planning, operational efficiency, and organizational growth.

Experience Summary

Current Role(s)
As the Vice President Finance & Administration/CFO at Hazelden Foundation, James is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. He also serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Walker Methodist, where he provides strategic leadership in financial decision-making and operational oversight. Prior to his current roles, James held the position of Senior Manager at Deloitte Haskins and Sells, where he gained valuable experience in financial consulting and compliance.

Career Progression
Throughout his career, James has demonstrated a consistent track record of growth and professional development. He has progressively taken on more senior roles, leveraging his deep understanding of financial management and industry best practices to drive transformative change within the organizations he has served. James' ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights has been instrumental in guiding strategic decision-making and optimizing organizational performance.

Academic Background
James holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with distinction. His academic achievements and specialized knowledge in finance have been instrumental in shaping his professional success.

Areas of Expertise
James' expertise spans a wide range of financial disciplines, including financial planning and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, financial reporting, and compliance management. He is adept at identifying and implementing cost-saving initiatives, streamlining operational processes, and aligning financial strategies with broader organizational goals. Additionally, James possesses strong leadership and communication skills, enabling him to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Professional Impact
Under James' financial leadership, Hazelden Foundation has achieved significant milestones, including securing a $20 million grant to expand its addiction treatment services and implementing a comprehensive data analytics platform to enhance financial decision-making. Similarly, at Walker Methodist, James has played a pivotal role in securing favorable financing terms for a major facility expansion project, contributing to the organization's continued growth and expansion.

Conclusion
With his exceptional financial acumen, strategic vision, and proven track record of success, James Blaha is a highly sought-after financial executive. His ability to drive organizational performance, optimize financial operations, and foster collaborative partnerships positions him as a valuable asset in the non-profit and healthcare sectors. James remains committed to leveraging his expertise to support the long-term sustainability and growth of the organizations he serves.