Michelle Pinedo, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

Professional Overview
Michelle Pinedo is a seasoned financial executive with over 20 years of experience in the non-profit and social impact sectors. As the Chief Financial Officer at AFS Intercultural Programs USA and PAX Consulting, she leverages her expertise in financial management, operations, and strategic planning to drive organizational growth and impact.

Experience Summary

Current Roles
Chief Financial Officer, AFS Intercultural Programs USA (2020-01-01 to Present)

• Oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for the organization's $15M annual budget

• Implemented cost-saving measures and streamlined processes, resulting in a 10% reduction in operational expenses

• Played a key role in securing a $2.5M grant from a major philanthropic foundation, enabling the expansion of AFS's global exchange programs

Chief Financial Officer, PAX Consulting (2023-02-01 to Present)

• Provides strategic financial guidance and oversight to this international development consulting firm

• Ensures financial compliance and implements robust internal controls to support the firm's growth and project delivery

Career Progression
Prior to her current roles, Michelle held various finance and operations leadership positions in the non-profit sector, including:

• Vice President, Finance & Operations at Episcopal Relief & Development (2017-01-01 to 2019-12-01)

• Director of Finance and Administration at Amref Health Africa in the USA (2014-08-01 to 2016-01-01)

• Director of Merchandising and Travel Programs at Museum For African Art (2010-07-01 to 2013-02-01)

• Controller at Museum For African Art (2004-06-01 to 2010-06-01)

• Senior Accountant at North General Hospital (1998-01-01 to 2000-01-01)

Academic Background
Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Pennsylvania and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Areas of Expertise

• Financial management and reporting

• Budgeting and forecasting

• Strategic planning and operational optimization

• Compliance and internal controls

• Non-profit accounting and grant management

Professional Impact

• Transformed financial operations and reporting, driving greater transparency and accountability at AFS Intercultural Programs USA

• Played a pivotal role in securing significant grant funding to support the expansion of educational and cultural exchange programs

• Recognized as a thought leader in the non-profit finance community, regularly invited to speak at industry events

Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and commitment to social impact, Michelle Pinedo is a trusted financial leader who drives organizational success and positive change in the non-profit and international development sectors.