The Faces Of CFOLC
Our team members make all the difference! The CFO Leadership Council (CFOLC), established in 2006, has a team that spans across the US & Canada supporting each other, our chapters & national initiatives 100% virtually. Through these interviews written in their own words, you’ll meet these innovative, driven and creative team members who make CFOLC what it is today.
Meet Mary Christensen, Chapter Director of our Minneapolis/St Paul Chapter & Marketing Director of 4 CFOLC chapters (Denver, Houston, Phoenix & Austin). As a highly regarded leader in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Mary joined the CFOLC team in 2016 and helped spearhead the launch of multiple chapters. Here’s her story.
Think Like A CEO, Chapter Program March 2019
Mary, tell us your story. Your path here at CFOLC & beyond
I was working in Association management – and Jack found me on LinkedIn! He reached out to see if I had any interest in launching a Minneapolis chapter. The rest they say…..is herstory! I was born and raised in MN! Recently married to my long time sweetie. We have 3 daughters 13, 16, 17. I like to watch movies, scrapbook, play games, hike and travel. I have been in the association management business for 12 years.
“Mary and I launched the Twin Cities chapter in 2016 and it immediately became one of our leading chapters. She also helped me launch a chapter in Seattle, and currently serves many of our chapters in the Southwest. She is very well connected in the Twin Cities business community, and is well-respected by members and sponsors alike, which is why she was recently promoted to chapter director. Mary also personifies the phrase “Minnesota Nice.”
Jack McCullough, Founder & President, CFO Leadership Council
So many choices for executives today. What makes CFOLC stand out?
I think what makes us stand out is our commitment to our community. By and for CFOs.
Jack McCullough Moderates Panel Discussion
How are you all staying afloat during COVID? Any lessons learned or silver linings?
We have had a lot more family time. With teenagers – it can be hard. We have learned that it’s OK to slow down. Bon fires and movie nights are NOT over-rated. People are generous and will help if asked. Check up on the people you love/care about! I have gotten back into the habit of sending cards to let people know I am thinking of them. There are many ways to find joy.
Do you have a favorite story about CFOLC?
One of my sponsors was supposed to be moderating a panel…..overslept. Jack stepped in to lead the panel. Believe it or not…..this happened twice!! – In our first year.
“I am so proud of the work we do to bring thought leaders together who help make us all better leaders, and frankly – better people.”
Mary Christensen, Chapter Director & Marketing Director, CFO Leadership Council
Mary & Kristin Todd, Chapter Program June 2018
What is your favorite part of your job? Something you are most proud of? Your “why”
Favorite part? Creating community. I am so proud of the work we do to bring thought leaders together who help make us all better leaders, and frankly – better people. I appreciate the focus on professional development and network building. It isn’t easy for most folks but I think we strive to be an inclusive company that elevates all of us who are involved with it.
“Simply put, Mary is Wonder Woman! I don’t know how she does what she does, but she does — she’s remarkable! I have worked with Mary for 3+ years now and we have managed the success of 5 chapters in the SW together. I could not, and would not want to do it with any other person! Her attention to detail, her work ethic, her creativity and tenacity to get the job done are some of the things I love about her. I no longer call her my partner…she’s my friend.”
Jeanene Golden, Southwest Regional Director, CFO Leadership Council
One fun fact we may not know about you?
I lived in a castle for a study abroad program in Alnwick, England (in the home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland) – I was there when they filmed the first Harry Potter movie!
Can’t live without accessory?
One word: Chapstick.
Favorite jam song to start your day?
DANCE music….Anything by Rhianna!
Mary Christensen
Chapter Director, CFO Leadership Council & President, Dynamic Association Services
Mary has been working in the association management and the events business for over 12 years. Her experience ranges from board support, membership engagement, event planning and execution, sponsorship, and marketing. Previously, she worked in the wireless technology industry for 10 years. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from St Cloud State University with a major in Speech Communications and a double minor in Intercultural Communications and Human Relations. In her free time, she likes to hang with her family, travel, hike and read.
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About The CFO Leadership Council
What began as a close knit experiment back in 2006 is now a global community, 2000+ members & 26 chapters strong. The CFO Leadership Council offers both live & online programs that feature expert panels and interactive sessions that drive meaningful conversation and leadership development among our membership. Our collection of leadership development resources similar to this article contain pragmatic insights and advice sourced directly from our members and industry experts. Recordings of CFOLC webcasts are made available to our current CFOLC Premium & Virtual members. For a full list of programs, visit www.cfolc.com.
About CFOLC Membership
The CFO Leadership Council is a community dedicated to empowering our members to grow and thrive. We provide insights needed to overcome any challenge a CFO may face and meaningful connectivity to a dynamic community of peers in a way that is most convenient and beneficial. Who are our members? CFOs, Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents of Finance, Director of FP&A, CAO, Controllers, Directors of Finance, and other senior financial leaders make up our membership and are invited to join. Start engaging today at www.cfolc.com/membership
Want to Continue the Conversation?
We’d love to hear from you. Post a comment about your experiences or provide feedback below to continue the discussion about how creative leadership in the current climate. Or contact Kristin Todd, Vice President of Marketing, [email protected]