The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth announced that Kristen Lee, MBA, CPA, has joined its leadership team as chief financial officer, bringing decades of experience to the organization. The association serves the public in Tarrant, Hood and Johnson counties with programs that empower youth, improve health and inspire social responsibility.
Lee joins the YMCA at a time of tremendous growth, as the organization seeks innovative ways to promote its strategic priorities in youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. That includes investing in people, facilities, programs and partnerships across the public, private, nonprofit and philanthropic sectors.
With more than 28 years of accounting experience in the corporate, nonprofit and healthcare industries, Lee brings extensive knowledge of financial statement and budget preparation — as well as project management, grant disbursement, compliance, analysis and variance reporting. She has experience in public and business accounting, human resource management, executive leadership and education. She also served eight years as an adjunct professor in accounting at the College of Southern Idaho.
“Kristen brings a diverse set of skills and knowledge to our leadership team,” said Mike Brown, president and CEO. “Her ambition, progressive mindset and openness to embracing change align seamlessly with our growth plan to enhance our community presence and promote health and well-being to the people we serve.”
Lee holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in accounting from Idaho State University. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Idaho and Texas and an active volunteer in her community.
“What excites me about this role is the ability to help the community by continuing to increase the Y’s sustainability,” Lee said. “The Y offers something for everyone, but the real driver for me is the difference we make in the lives of our young people, because that impact carries on from generation to generation.
“Our financial standing is vital in many aspects, from how we grow revenue and make sure our pricing is appropriate to how we pay our people a fair wage,” Lee added. “The YMCA is also focused on growing its endowments to ensure we have funds for any rainy days. I look forward to creating a better set of financial statements and building an even stronger team to support the work of the YMCA.”
