Executive Summary
Name: Jen Levy Whitley
Company: California Historical Society
Current Position: Interim CEO and Chief Operating Officer
Location: San Francisco, CA
Professional Background
Jen Levy Whitley is an accomplished executive, currently serving as the Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer at the California Historical Society (CHS). She is based in Berkeley, CA and has a robust track record in finance and operations, showcasing expertise in accounting, information systems, and management.
Roles and Responsibilities
In her dual capacity as Interim CEO and COO, Jen oversees the strategic and operational aspects of the California Historical Society. Her key responsibilities include financial oversight, operational management, and leading the organization's strategic initiatives during a period of significant transition.
Recent Changes and Challenges
Following the unfortunate passing of Alicia Goehring in August 2022, the Board of Trustees of CHS appointed Jen as the Interim CEO, demonstrating their confidence in her leadership capabilities during this sensitive time. Under her interim leadership, CHS has implemented several operational changes, including staff reductions and cost-saving measures, while temporarily closing its galleries and store to pivot towards alternative forms of exhibitions.
Professional Expertise
- Accounting and Finance: Jen has deep expertise in accounting, which is foundational to her role in managing the financial health of CHS.
- Operations Management: Her experience spans not just finance but also the technical and operational realms, ensuring smooth daily operations at CHS.
- Communication: Known for her stellar communication skills, Jen is also recognized for her creativity, making her a multifaceted leader.
Education
Jen Levy Whitley holds a Bachelor's degree with Highest Honors in Social Science from the University of California, Berkeley, where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. This strong educational background adds to her comprehensive skill set in her leadership role.
Contact Information
- Email: j@calhist.org
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- LinkedIn*: [Jen Levy Whitley - LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-levy-whitley-56a7617)
Notable Achievements
While specific professional achievements were not highlighted in the data, Jen's appointment as Interim CEO highlights her esteemed position and the trust placed in her by the Board of Trustees. Her ability to navigate the organization through recent operational changes underscores her expertise and leadership qualities.
Organizational Impact
Under Jen’s interim leadership, the California Historical Society is navigating significant transitions and focusing on strategic realignments to ensure the organization's sustainability and relevance. Her dual role as COO also reflects her integral contribution to the organization's operational success.
Prepared for detailed sales background research, this contact profiling report presents Jen Levy Whitley's notable professional journey and current leadership position at the California Historical Society, highlighting key aspects of her career, skills, and impact within the organization.
