I'm Jonathan Orze, a finance executive with a passion for strategic leadership, global management, and building strong financial frameworks that drive business growth. My career began at IBM, and since then, I've led finance teams across startups and Fortune 500 companies, including McGraw-Hill, Standard & Poor's, and Kaplan Test Prep. I specialize in financial strategy, operational efficiency, and scaling businesses for long-term success. I earned my degree in Finance from the University of Arizona, where I also minored in History, before moving to New York City to advance my career. After more than a decade in the fast-paced corporate world, I returned to Arizona to complete my Master's in Global Management at Thunderbird, graduating with honors and earning distinctions in Beta Gamma Sigma and Pi Sigma Alpha. My experience spans managing complex financial structures, overseeing global teams, and navigating the financial challenges that businesses face in today's rapidly evolving economy. What excites me most is the ability to turn financial data into strategic decisions that create meaningful impact. I thrive on finding innovative solutions, optimizing resources, and helping businesses scale effectively. Whether working with startups or established enterprises, I bring a global perspective and a problem-solving mindset to every challenge. Outside of finance, I'm an avid traveler and motorcycle enthusiast who enjoys exploring new places and cheering on my alma mater's basketball and football teams. I'd love to contribute to your piece and share insights from my journey as a CFO. Let's connect!
As the Chief Financial Officer of a leading behavioral health organization, I play a pivotal role in managing financial strategy, deal structuring, and market expansion. My expertise spans across sourcing opportunities, conducting market feasibility studies, financial analysis, and overseeing negotiations, equity raising, and investor management. Beyond finance, I collaborate with architects on new construction and renovations, navigating licensing and rezoning processes to ensure successful project execution. My background includes a strong track record in leading high-value real estate transactions across key markets such as New York, New Jersey, and South Carolina. Notable projects include a Coastal Carolina University student housing development, a 60,000 SF industrial warehouse in Wayne, NJ, and multiple NYC community facility daycare leases. These experiences have shaped my ability to identify and capitalize on high-growth opportunities across various industries, particularly in businesses undergoing transitional phases like mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. In addition to my work in real estate and finance, I have been instrumental in pioneering an innovative approach to behavioral healthcare. I co-launched a luxury detox and treatment center designed to offer a more individualized, holistic, and comprehensive recovery experience. My focus remains on financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and expansion strategies that ensure long-term growth while maintaining excellence in patient care. I am passionate about leveraging financial strategy to drive impactful business transformations and industry advancements.
I am currently serving as the CFO of Invested Mom, bringing a unique blend of corporate and entrepreneurial financial leadership experience. Prior to this role, I managed billion-dollar revenue recognition at Tesla, leading teams of over 100 people in Delivery Operations. My journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurial leadership has given me valuable insights into both scaling operations and strategic financial management. I specialize in financial analysis, investment strategies, and helping businesses optimize their financial operations while maintaining strong growth trajectories. My expertise spans traditional corporate finance, investment strategies across multiple asset classes, and entrepreneurial finance.
Kenny is a financial executive based in California with extensive experience in VC-backed startups and investment management. As Chief Financial Officer, he oversees the finance division of BairesDev, leveraging his expertise to monitor the company's financial operations and implement strategic improvements. As former CFO of InBrace, he oversaw the financial operations of a high-growth medical device company that recently closed a Series D round of $102MM. Kenny is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Master's degree in Education and BS from the University of California, Los Angeles. He currently lives in Southern California with his wife and three children.
In 2005 I graduated from The University of Georgia's Terry College of Business with a bachelor's degree in finance. This was not the educational path that interested me most, as I always told my parents I wanted to major in criminal justice. Since my parents were footing the bill for college, they "strongly encouraged" me to major in something that would give me opportunities in the business world. They wanted me to have opportunities that they didn't. Less than excitedly, I obliged and convinced myself that the FBI often hired finance majors, so I wasn't completely bagging my dream of working in criminal justice. In 2013 my husband and I bought a landscaping company (this was his career), and he convinced me to take on the CFO role for our company so he could get it off the ground and stabilized before hiring other executives. I knew nothing about landscaping or service industry companies, but I understood money and knew enough about company financials and accounting, so I accepted the challenge in conjunction with maintaining my sales role at Tarkenton Financial and having a 3-month-old daughter. This was the most challenging 5 years of my life. I taught myself everything from the ground up. After years of telling our CFO that I wanted his job (semi-jokingly), he approached me last Spring and said he was ready to retire and thought I was the right person to fill his shoes. I still cannot believe that the person I interviewed with 17 years ago (and I thought it was the worst interview of my life and there was no way I got the job) is now my mentor as I navigate the career of CFO again, but this time not for my own company, but for 3 companies with over 60 employees and so many growth opportunities on the horizon. It's surreal. I honestly love a lot about being a CFO. I love that numbers don't lie yet there are plenty of ways to shift company dynamics to make positive impacts. It's my responsibility to understand the numbers, and I most enjoy sharing the story of what our numbers are telling us and collaborating with our team of executives to support them in making the best operational decisions possible for the overall good of our employees, customers and our companies.
Im the CFO of a Swedish fintech company Eqvor that helps investors buy and sell shares in unlisted companies. If I can provide value to the article that would be fun.
Not a traditional CFO, but I do sit on the board of a bank while running a global marketing agency and filming a national docuseries-so I've got an unconventional take on financial strategy and leadership. I built and sold a multi-city travel company that landed in The New York Times and served clients like Paul McCartney's team-then lost it overnight when political protests shut down tourism in Chile. That experience completely reshaped how I think about financial risk, business resilience, and the kind of growth that actually lasts. Now, I operate across five time zones, leading a remote team while balancing executive board duties and media production. My financial strategy is built around one core principle: scalability without dependency-on seasonality, a single market, or an outdated idea of stability. If you're looking for a CFO who thinks like an entrepreneur, builds systems that survive worst-case scenarios, and believes that financial leadership is about adaptability, not just spreadsheets, happy to chat. peter@fractionalcmousa.com
I'd love to contribute to your feature on dynamic CFOs. As a fractional CFO, I bring a unique perspective to financial leadership-balancing the strategic oversight of a traditional CFO with the adaptability and hands-on approach that scaling businesses need. Working across multiple industries, I help businesses optimize profitability, improve cash flow, and navigate financial strategy in real time. Unlike full-time CFOs who are deeply embedded in a single organization, I have the advantage of seeing financial challenges and growth strategies play out across different business models, industries, and economic conditions. For your article, I can share insights on scaling profitably, financial agility in a volatile market, and how businesses can make smarter financial decisions without the overhead of a full-time CFO. If you're looking for someone who understands the financial challenges of growth from multiple angles, I'd love to contribute. Looking forward to hearing more!
As a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader, I hold executive roles in multiple companies, driving growth and innovation across various industries. I'm the Founder & CEO/CFO of K9 Activity Club, established in 2014. We have grown from 2 to 50 employees in 10 years, and it's a thriving community for dog lovers. In addition to my work with K9 Activity Club, I've expanded my entrepreneurial endeavors into additional pet businesses and other industries. I'm the co-owner and CFO of NAVI Appliance Repair, a trusted appliance repair business offering reliable, expert service to homeowners. I'm also the co-owner and CFO of Betsy's Moving, a woman-owned and operated moving company in California that specializes in moving seniors. In 2024/2025, I'm launching three unique pet focused B2C services/products. I am always looking for new opportunities to expand my portfolio and invest in businesses that align with my interests and values. My family had a small home improvement business, and I grew up working side by side with my dad. My first role was as the office manager/bookkeeper, learning how to manage the company books at 15 years old. I took accounting in college and was teaching QuickBooks to other small business owners by 21. Those early skills helped my business ventures astronomically because all business comes down to money and cash flow eventually. As a proud member of Codie Sanchez's Mainstreet Over Wallstreet community-which focuses on acquiring and revitalizing small, cash-flowing businesses that provide essential services-I take small business seriously! Through this approach, I aim to support our local economy, create job opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in industries that matter most to everyday people. My passion for numbers, business acquisition and operational excellence continues to fuel my journey.
As the owner of Tools420, I've navigated the financial challenges of scaling an e-commerce business in the cannabis industry, where traditional banking and payment processing can be complex. Early on, I had to make strategic cash flow decisions, like negotiating better supplier terms to maintain healthy inventory levels without overextending capital. One key lesson I've learned is that a CFO must not only manage numbers but also anticipate industry shifts-such as regulatory changes or consumer trends-that impact profitability. For example, when supply chain disruptions hit, we pivoted quickly by diversifying suppliers and adjusting pricing strategies, ensuring stability while maintaining customer trust. A strong financial leader balances risk and growth, always keeping the long-term vision in focus.
I am a Business Growth Consultant and Fractional CFO for ReadyBrush (ReadyBrush.com). With experience at Ernst & Young and years spent in the hospitality industry, I bring a unique perspective to the CFO role. I'm not your typical CFO, and I pride myself on my proven track record in financial strategy and leadership. I'd be happy to speak with you, answer questions, and contribute however I can. Best regards, Wendy Shore
I am the CFO of a dynamic digital marketing agency, overseeing financial strategy, budgeting, and sustainable growth. With extensive experience in managing multi-million-dollar ad budgets, I ensure financial efficiency while optimizing investments in paid media, automation, and data-driven marketing. My role involves cash flow management, forecasting, and profitability analysis to scale operations effectively. Beyond financial oversight, I play a key role in aligning business objectives with long-term financial health, ensuring that every dollar spent contributes to measurable growth. By leveraging data analytics, I've helped streamline operations, reduce overhead costs, and maximize ROI for both our agency and eCommerce ventures. My focus is on balancing financial stability with strategic risk-taking to drive sustainable expansion. I'd be happy to share insights on financial leadership, digital marketing profitability, and scaling businesses in an evolving economic landscape. Let me know how I can contribute.
Subject: Dynamic CFO Leadership at JMK Group Dear Forbes, I am Mehdi Khachani, CEO/CFO of JMK Group, a diversified company encompassing property management, plumbing and HVAC services, and contracting. Under my leadership, JMK Group has experienced rapid and exponential growth, expanding its portfolio and services across multiple sectors. With over 15 years of exceeding financial goals, I have focused on sales, marketing, business development, and R&D. I am a proud MBA graduate of Wharton Business School (Class of 2011). My passion for serving customers is enhanced by my international management experience and multilingual skills. While officially holding the CEO title, I actively engage in strategic financial planning, operational oversight, and long-term forecasting-key responsibilities typically associated with a CFO. My hands-on approach ensures that financial strategies align with the company's ambitious growth objectives, driving sustainable success across all divisions. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to Forbes and share insights into the dynamic leadership that propels JMK Group's continued expansion. Best regards, Mehdi Khachani https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehdikhachani/ Businesses Web Pages: - https://jmkcontractor.com/ - https://jmkpropertymanagement.com/ - https://sunnybliss.com/
I'm the Founder of payments company yetipay (yetipay.me). Hold the position of CEO and CFO. Founded my company 7 years ago, and its grown to L350 million processing and counting. Have lots to share about building agile teams and navigating dynamic roles, CFO included. Happy to chat.
As a forward-thinking Chief Financial Officer, I bring extensive expertise in financial strategy, risk management, and operational efficiency. With a track record of driving profitability and optimizing capital structures, I have successfully led organizations through complex financial landscapes. My ability to blend analytical insight with strategic vision has enabled me to deliver sustainable growth while ensuring compliance with ever-evolving regulatory frameworks. Beyond financial management, I am passionate about leveraging technology and automation to streamline financial operations. My experience in implementing AI-driven analytics, ERP solutions, and data-driven forecasting has significantly enhanced decision-making processes. I believe that a CFO's role extends beyond numbers-it involves shaping a company's future by fostering collaboration across departments and aligning financial goals with business objectives. I welcome the opportunity to share my insights on financial leadership, economic trends, and the evolving role of CFOs in today's dynamic market. Please ensure that your Featured Expert page's "Opt-out of messages from journalists" setting is unchecked so we can connect seamlessly. I look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions that contribute to the financial success of businesses worldwide.
I am the Founder and Chief Financial Officer at Macademics Writers, a content writing business dedicated to delivering high-quality, customized writing solutions for clients across various industries. My observation as a founder at Macademics Writers is that I lead my own content writing business, which provides high-quality, tailored writing services to clients across various industries. Entrepreneurial Background: With over 3 years of experience in content strategy, business development, and financial management, I've successfully scaled Macademics Writers into a trusted content partner. Financial Oversight: I manage my business's financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting, ensuring healthy cash flow and profitability. Strategic Decision-Making: I play an integral role in shaping the company's growth by identifying new opportunities and optimizing operational efficiencies to meet long-term goals. Focus on Innovation: I leverage advanced tools and technologies to enhance workflow efficiency, improve collaboration, and deliver top-notch content solutions to our clients. Open to Communication: I've ensured that my Featured expert page's "Opt-out of messages from journalists" setting is unchecked so I can be easily contacted for further discussions.
Founder, Board President, Fiduciary & 401k/403(b) Specialist at Empower Women That Rock
Answered a year ago
Eva Kalivas Krieger - Founder/Board President My 30+ years of experience in the financial services industry has encompassed both corporate and independent structures, enriching my perspective and ability to advise mentees in both settings. Though I have always been passionate about supporting hardworking, goal-oriented women of all ages, it was the acquisition of my firm and subsequent corporate experience that truly drove me to launch this non-profit by revealing the challenges that female executives continue to face. I believe that by creating a network of experienced career women, across various fields, we can increase collaboration, share advice and resources, and address concerns as a network, offering empowerment, support, encouragement and professional respect. In turn, Empower Women That Rock will create a nationwide mentorship program for high school girls, seeking guidance as they venture into college, graduate, join the work force and, hopefully, join the network themselves one day. Empower Women That Rock was founded by my belief and drive that dynamic women, of all ages, be provided with an impactful network, resources and opportunities to BE VICTORIOUS as they navigate through life and their careers. In addition to serving as President of the Board, for Empower Women That Rock, I am also an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor, serve as a Director for Alma Bank's Board, am a member of Leadership 100, advancing Orthodoxy and Hellenism in America and am happily married to my husband, Bob, and are proud parents of our daughter, Nikolette.
I have over 15 years of experience in finance, specialising in strategic planning, risk management, and financial analysis. Currently, I am the CFO, leading a team focused on optimising our financial performance. My approach to growth involves connecting financial strategies to company objectives alongside the development of data-based systems to create both profitability and enduring expansion. Other CFOs should invest in analytical and forecasting tools to better understand market patterns and customer trends. Investment in eCommerce SEO is a fundamental requirement for increasing eCommerce visibility through traffic growth, which in turn leads to revenue increase. Poor cash management is a major obstacle that businesses should prevent. Any business requires strong cash flow to stay operationally stable and achieve long-term profits.
Founder, CEO, PR Strategist, Personal Branding Specialist, Crisis Communication & Reputation Manager at ZavoMedia PR Group
Answered a year ago
Liana Zavo is a highly accomplished PR executive, global speaker, female advocate, Forbes thought leader, and CEO and CFO of ZavoMedia PR Group. With over a decade of experience in the field of public relations, Liana has established herself as a prominent publicist in the corporate industry. She helps NPOs, startups, and small to midsize businesses gain recognition, visibility, credibility, and profitability in their respective industries. Her passion for strategic communication, branding, and media relations has driven her to help numerous founders and organizations achieve their goals and elevate their businesses nationwide and globally. As the CEO and CFO of ZavoMedia PR Group, Liana leads a team of dedicated professionals in New York City and 12 countries to create and execute innovative PR campaigns and strategic partnerships. Liana is bridging the gap for founders and organizations by helping their companies become recognized in the American market. This helps grow their portfolio to attract investors. Her expertise lies in developing effective strategies and narratives that enhance brand visibility, manage reputations, and drive business growth. Liana's keen understanding of the media landscape allows her to build strong relationships with journalists, securing valuable press coverage for her clients. Beyond her role as a publicist and CFO, Liana is a respected thought leader and speaker. She has shared her insights and expertise at various industry events and conferences, empowering audiences with her knowledge of PR strategies, personal branding, and leadership. Liana Zavo's commitment to empowering women in the business world is evident in her work. She advocates for diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities, inspiring other women to achieve their fullest potential. Her dedication to mentorship and community building has earned her recognition and respect within the industry. With a strong drive for success and a genuine passion for her work, Liana Zavo continues to make a significant impact in the world of public relations.
I'm Julian De Graaf, the Co-founder and CEO, and I also take on the role of CFO. In my position, I'm responsible for both the overall direction of the company and making sure our finances are well-managed. As CFO, I focus on overseeing all financial operations, ensuring we're making smart choices that help the business grow while keeping everything financially healthy. Running a business that provides luxury car and yacht rentals means balancing both high-level strategic decisions and day-to-day financial management. I work closely with my team to keep the business growing while also making sure our clients always receive the best service possible. Managing finances is key, but so is making sure our customers have an exceptional experience every time they book with us. I believe the secret to success in our industry is striking the right balance between delivering outstanding luxury services and making the right financial moves. As both CEO and CFO, I can guide the business with a clear vision while managing the financial details that help drive our success. It's a role that lets me focus on long-term goals while also being hands-on with the financial health of the company.