Financial Executives International Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Financial Executives International has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and board governance.

Financial Executives International drives corporate financial management advocacy, enhancing member professional development through peer networking, career planning, conferences, and research, impacting the broader financial industry.

Leadership Roles at Financial Executives International

  • Chief Executive Officer - Deepak Ghimire
  • Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive - Joe McKendrick
  • President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair - Mary Cook
  • Chief Financial Officer, Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber - Adam Maclay
  • Chief Operating Officer - Lili DeVita
  • Board of Directors & President, NJ Chapter & President, Elect , Membership Committee ('15-'18, '13-'18) - Travis Epp
  • Chapter President - Debrah Knight
  • President, Board Chapter (Austin) - Donald Neville
  • President - James Schildt
  • Chief Finance Officer - Anthony Ismail
  • Deepak Ghimire - Chief Executive Officer

    Deepak Ghimire, the Chief Executive Officer at Financial Executives International, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Ghimire spearheads initiatives to advance the views of corporate financial management, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission. This leadership role involves guiding policy-making positions for the 15,000 members, who hold key roles such as chief financial officers, treasurers, and controllers. Ghimire's focus remains on enhancing member professional development through strategic planning of networking opportunities, career services, and industry-specific conferences. The Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization's research and publications effectively serve the membership and contribute to the broader financial landscape. Ghimire's executive oversight drives the organization's impact and relevance in the corporate finance sector.

    Joe McKendrick - Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive

    Joe McKendrick, the Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive at Financial Executives International, provides dual oversight of financial health and technological infrastructure. McKendrick directs financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across the organization. Simultaneously, this executive guides information technology strategy, managing systems that support member services and operational efficiency. As a Corporate Board Executive, McKendrick contributes to high-level governance and strategic decision-making, integrating financial and technological insights. This multifaceted role ensures robust financial controls and a secure, effective technology environment. McKendrick's leadership supports the organization's mission to advocate for corporate financial management and enhance member professional development through sound financial and IT practices.

    Mary Cook - President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair

    Mary Cook, the President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair at Financial Executives International, holds a pivotal leadership position encompassing strategic direction and financial oversight. Cook leads the organization as President, guiding its advocacy efforts for corporate financial management professionals. In the capacity of Chief Financial Officer, this executive manages the organization's financial resources, ensuring fiscal stability and strategic investment in member services. As Board Chair, Cook presides over board meetings, driving governance and strategic planning. The designation 'The Year Chair' suggests a specific focus or leadership initiative for a defined period. Cook's comprehensive leadership ensures the organization effectively supports its 15,000 members through professional development and advocacy.

    Adam Maclay - Chief Financial Officer, Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber

    Adam Maclay, the Chief Financial Officer, Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber at Financial Executives International, directs financial strategy and operations specifically for the Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber division. Maclay oversees budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal health and growth of this specialized sector. This executive's responsibilities include managing financial risks and opportunities within the cyber services domain. Maclay's role involves close collaboration with operational leaders to align financial objectives with strategic goals for service delivery and market expansion. The Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources are allocated effectively to support innovation and member value within this critical area. Maclay's financial acumen drives the success of the Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber operations.

    Lili DeVita - Chief Operating Officer

    Lili DeVita, the Chief Operating Officer at Financial Executives International, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures efficient service delivery to members. DeVita oversees the implementation of programs designed to enhance professional development, including peer networking events and career planning services. This role is critical in coordinating the logistics for conferences, publications, and special reports, ensuring they meet high standards of quality and relevance. DeVita works to optimize internal processes, supporting the organization's advocacy efforts for corporate financial management. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to managing resources and personnel to effectively support the 15,000 members. DeVita's operational leadership ensures the smooth functioning of all organizational activities, directly contributing to member satisfaction and engagement.
    Lili DeVita

    Travis Epp - Board of Directors & President, NJ Chapter & President, Elect , Membership Committee ('15-'18, '13-'18)

    Travis Epp, the Board of Directors & President, NJ Chapter & President, Elect , Membership Committee ('15-'18, '13-'18) at Financial Executives International, contributes significantly to governance and regional leadership. As a member of the Board of Directors, Epp participates in strategic decision-making and oversight of the organization's direction. Leading the New Jersey Chapter as President, Epp fosters local engagement and provides targeted support to members in the region. The role of President-Elect indicates a future leadership transition for a chapter or committee. Epp's extensive involvement with the Membership Committee from 2013-2018 and again from 2015-2018 highlights a deep commitment to member growth and retention. This executive's dedication strengthens the organization's network and advocacy efforts.
    Travis Epp

    Debrah Knight - Chapter President

    Debrah Knight, the Chapter President at Financial Executives International, leads a specific regional chapter, driving engagement and local initiatives. Knight oversees chapter operations, ensuring alignment with the organization's broader mission of advocating for corporate financial management. This leadership role involves organizing local events, facilitating peer networking, and supporting member professional development within the chapter's geographic area. Knight works to enhance the value proposition for members in the region, fostering a strong community of financial executives. The Chapter President's focus is on strengthening the local presence and impact of Financial Executives International. Knight's efforts contribute directly to the organization's overall reach and effectiveness.

    Donald Neville - President, Board Chapter (Austin)

    Donald Neville, the President, Board Chapter (Austin) at Financial Executives International, directs the Austin chapter's activities and strategic direction. Neville leads the local board, ensuring effective governance and operational execution within the Austin region. This executive fosters a strong network for financial executives in Austin, promoting professional development through chapter events and initiatives. Neville's role involves enhancing member engagement and expanding the organization's influence locally. The President, Board Chapter (Austin) ensures that the chapter's activities align with the national organization's mission to advocate for corporate financial management. Neville's leadership strengthens the organization's presence and support for members in the Austin area.

    James Schildt - President

    James Schildt, the President at Financial Executives International, holds a significant leadership position within the organization. Schildt guides the strategic direction and operational priorities, ensuring the organization effectively advocates for corporate financial management. This executive role involves fostering member engagement and enhancing professional development opportunities. Schildt works to strengthen the organization's network and influence, supporting the 15,000 members in their policy-making roles. The President's focus is on driving the organization's mission forward and ensuring its continued relevance and impact in the financial community. Schildt's leadership is instrumental in advancing the interests of financial executives nationwide.
    James Schildt

    Anthony Ismail - Chief Finance Officer

    Anthony Ismail, the Chief Finance Officer at Financial Executives International, oversees the organization's comprehensive financial management and strategy. Ismail directs all aspects of financial planning, accounting, and reporting, ensuring robust fiscal controls and compliance. This executive plays a key role in developing financial strategies that support the organization's mission of advocating for corporate financial management. Ismail's responsibilities include managing budgets, optimizing financial performance, and providing critical financial insights to guide executive decisions. The Chief Finance Officer ensures the organization's financial resources are effectively utilized to enhance member professional development through networking, career services, and educational initiatives. Ismail's leadership ensures financial stability and supports the organization's growth objectives.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Financial Executives International Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Financial Executives International?
    Financial Executives International is led by Deepak Ghimire (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Joe McKendrick (Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive) and Mary Cook (President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair).
    Who is part of Financial Executives International’s executive team?
    The executive team of Financial Executives International includes leaders such as Deepak Ghimire (Chief Executive Officer), Joe McKendrick (Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive), Mary Cook (President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Financial Executives International have?
    Financial Executives International has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Financial Executives International’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Financial Executives International includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Information Officer & Corporate Board Executive, President & Chief Financial Officer, Board Chair, The Year Chair, Chief Financial Officer, Lifecycle Solutions & Services Cyber, Chief Operating Officer.