Tara Chappell, CPA
Senior Manager - Corporate Finance
Professional Overview
Tara Chappell is a seasoned finance and accounting professional with over 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector. As the Senior Manager of Corporate Finance at Upbring, she oversees all aspects of the organization's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. Tara's expertise spans financial management, grant accounting, and leading high-performing teams to drive organizational growth and efficiency.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Senior Manager of Corporate Finance at Upbring, Tara is responsible for managing the organization's financial planning, analysis, and reporting. She oversees a team of accounting professionals, ensuring the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, budgets, and grant-related reports. Tara's strategic leadership has been instrumental in aligning Upbring's financial priorities with its mission, contributing to the organization's overall success.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Tara held various accounting and finance positions within Upbring, gradually assuming greater responsibilities. As the Accounting Manager, she played a vital role in streamlining financial processes, implementing new accounting software, and training staff on best practices. Earlier in her career, Tara gained experience as a Grant Accountant at Upbring and in various roles at Accounting Principals, Robert Half Finance & Accounting, and OneWest Bank.
Academic Background
Tara holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and remains actively involved in professional organizations, staying current with industry trends and best practices.
Areas of Expertise
- Financial management and reporting
- Grant accounting and compliance
- Budgeting and forecasting
- Process improvement and automation
- Team leadership and coaching
- Nonprofit financial operations
Professional Impact
During her tenure at Upbring, Tara has played a crucial role in streamlining the organization's financial processes, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings. She has implemented robust financial controls and reporting systems, enabling the executive team to make data-driven decisions. Tara's collaborative approach and commitment to professional development have earned her the respect of her colleagues and the trust of Upbring's stakeholders.
Conclusion
Tara Chappell is a versatile finance and accounting leader with a proven track record of driving organizational success in the nonprofit sector. Her strategic mindset, technical expertise, and people-centric approach make her a valuable asset to Upbring as the organization continues to expand its impact and fulfill its mission. Tara is poised to continue her professional growth, contributing her skills and experience to further strengthen Upbring's financial operations and enhance its overall performance.
