RIMS, the risk management society, will see a change in leadership in 2025 as chief financial officer Kathy Gledhill prepares to retire at the end of this year.
Gledhill, who joined the organization in 2019, plans to step down on December 31 to pursue other professional and personal opportunities.
RIMS CEO Gary LaBranche acknowledged Gledhill’s contributions during her tenure. He described her as a trusted advisor to the executive team, board of directors, and staff.
"Her financial acumen, strategic insights, and collaborative spirit have left an indelible mark on our organization. While we will miss her immensely, we are excited to see her thrive in the next chapter of her journey,” said LaBranche.
Gledhill played a key role in navigating the challenges posed by the global pandemic, including the cancellation of RISKWORLD 2020 and a period of economic uncertainty. Her leadership included managing reserves and developing financial projections for various risk scenarios.
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In addition to these efforts, Gledhill oversaw the implementation of a new enterprise resource planning system to improve operational efficiencies. She also guided the selection of new audit and financial advisory services and was instrumental in onboarding her successor.
According to the organization, Gledhill will continue to work in advisory and leadership roles on for-profit and nonprofit boards, as well as in consulting and interim CFO capacities.
RIMS president David Arick expressed gratitude for Gledhill's leadership and noted that her work has supported the organization’s mission and positioned it for continued success.
“Her contributions will continue to have a meaningful impact on our future, and I sincerely thank her for her leadership and wish her all the best,” said Arick.
Gledhill's role as CFO will be succeeded by Bereket Haile, who has been serving as RIMS' controller since 2023.
Haile’s previous roles include controller for the Financial Planning Association (2021-2023), accounting manager at the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (2018-2021), and financial analyst at E*TRADE (2016-2018).
He holds an MBA from the University of California, Irvine, and has completed the NextGen CFO Program at CFO University. According to RIMS, Haile brings expertise in accounting, strategic finance, and analytics. He will report directly to LaBranche in his new role.
As RIMS transitions its financial leadership, what are your thoughts on the evolving roles of CFOs in nonprofit organizations? Share your views in the comments.