Joe Liethen, Chief Financial Officer
Professional Overview
Joe Liethen is an accomplished finance and accounting executive with over 20 years of experience across the retail and financial services industries. As the Chief Financial Officer at Marine Credit Union, he is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, strategic planning, and driving sustainable growth through data-driven decision making.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer at Marine Credit Union since November 2021, Joe is responsible for managing the company's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. He plays a key role in developing and implementing the credit union's strategic financial initiatives, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and maximizing profitability. Under his leadership, the finance and accounting teams have streamlined processes, improved internal controls, and enhanced financial reporting to support the organization's long-term objectives.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Joe held several senior finance and operations positions at Kohl's Department Stores, where he gained extensive experience in financial planning, inventory management, and loss prevention. As the Vice President of Store Finance, Staffing and Operations, he spearheaded initiatives that drove operational efficiencies and cost savings, contributing to the company's overall financial performance.
Joe's career has also included a stint as the Vice President and Controller at Marine Credit Union, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization's financial reporting and compliance processes. Additionally, he has served as a consultant, providing interim controller services to various clients, further expanding his expertise in financial management and strategic advisory.
Academic Background
Joe holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He is a certified public accountant (CPA) and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professional development and ongoing learning.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial planning and analysis
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Accounting and internal controls
- Financial reporting and compliance
- Operational efficiency and cost optimization
- Strategic decision-making and advisory
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Joe has made significant contributions to the organizations he has served. At Kohl's, he led initiatives that improved inventory management and reduced loss prevention-related expenses, resulting in substantial cost savings. As the Vice President and Controller at Marine Credit Union, he played a crucial role in enhancing the organization's financial reporting and risk management processes, which strengthened the credit union's overall financial health and operational resilience.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience in finance, accounting, and operations, Joe Liethen is a highly valued asset to Marine Credit Union. As the Chief Financial Officer, he is committed to driving financial excellence, optimizing resources, and supporting the credit union's strategic growth objectives. His proven track record of success and cross-industry expertise make him a versatile leader capable of navigating complex financial challenges and delivering sustainable results.
