Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Laura Peaslee is a seasoned financial professional with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and public accounting sectors. As the Financial Director at Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, she oversees all financial operations, compliance, and strategic planning for the organization.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Financial Director at Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, Laura is responsible for managing the organization's $80 million annual budget, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, and driving financial strategies to support the nonprofit's mission. She has been instrumental in implementing process improvements that have enhanced financial reporting, strengthened internal controls, and optimized resource allocation.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Laura served as the Interim Finance Director and Director of Finance and Compliance at Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, where she played a pivotal role in managing the organization's financial operations and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Before joining the nonprofit sector, she held various audit management positions at reputable public accounting firms, including Rojas & Associates, CPAs, Jacobson Jarvis & Co, PLLC, and Lindquist LLP, where she honed her expertise in financial reporting, risk management, and internal controls.
Academic Background
Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of South Florida, where she graduated cum laude. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Areas of Expertise
- Nonprofit financial management
- Regulatory compliance and reporting
- Internal control systems
- Budget planning and forecasting
- Financial analysis and decision support
- Audit management and oversight
Professional Impact
During her tenure at Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, Laura has played a pivotal role in securing over $10 million in grant funding, ensuring the organization's financial sustainability and enabling the expansion of critical social services. She has also led the implementation of a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which has streamlined financial reporting and increased operational efficiency.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience in the nonprofit and public accounting sectors, Laura Peaslee is a strategic financial leader who is dedicated to driving organizational success and supporting the vital work of Catholic Community Services of Western Washington. Her expertise in financial management, compliance, and process optimization position her as a valuable asset to the organization and the communities it serves.