NeighborWorks America Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

NeighborWorks America has 7 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, operations, and program management.

Driven by a commitment to community revitalization, NeighborWorks America provides essential financial support, technical assistance, and training to foster robust urban development programs nationwide.

Leadership Roles at NeighborWorks America

  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Forster
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Kemba Esmond
  • Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer - Kenneth Wae
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Dana Moore
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Susan Ifill
  • Vice President, Program Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Clare Rosenberger
  • Chief Technology Officer - Aaron Knopf
  • Michael Forster - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Forster, the Chief Financial Officer at NeighborWorks America, directs the organization's financial planning, management, and reporting. Forster oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment strategies, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of NeighborWorks America's non-profit mission. This critical role involves managing financial risk, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations. By maintaining rigorous financial oversight, Michael Forster supports the effective delivery of financial aid and technical assistance for urban development projects. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic financial guidance underpins the organization's ability to achieve its goals.

    Kemba Esmond - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Kemba Esmond, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at NeighborWorks America, provides strategic financial leadership and oversight. Esmond directs the financial strategy, ensuring robust fiscal management and the efficient allocation of resources to support NeighborWorks America's non-profit objectives. This role encompasses financial planning, risk management, and the development of financial policies that uphold the organization's integrity and mission. By guiding financial operations, Kemba Esmond ensures the sustainable delivery of critical support for urban development programs. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for maintaining the organization's financial stability and expanding its impact.

    Kenneth Wae - Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer

    Kenneth Wae, the Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer at NeighborWorks America, manages the organization's financial health and treasury functions. Wae oversees financial reporting, cash management, and investment activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance across all operations. This position involves safeguarding organizational assets and optimizing financial performance to support NeighborWorks America's mission of urban development. By providing expert financial stewardship, Kenneth Wae ensures the effective deployment of funds for technical assistance and training programs. The Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer's role is integral to maintaining the organization's financial integrity and operational capacity.

    Dana Moore - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Dana Moore, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at NeighborWorks America, provides critical financial leadership during a transitional period. Moore oversees the organization's financial operations, ensuring continuity and stability in fiscal management. This role involves maintaining accurate financial records, managing budgets, and supporting the strategic financial direction of NeighborWorks America's non-profit activities. By ensuring sound financial practices, Dana Moore supports the ongoing delivery of essential services, including financial aid and technical assistance for urban development projects. The Interim Chief Financial Officer's expertise is crucial for navigating financial complexities and upholding the organization's mission.

    Susan Ifill - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Susan Ifill, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at NeighborWorks America, spearheads the operational execution of the organization's strategic objectives. Ifill manages the day-to-day operations, ensuring seamless delivery of financial support, technical assistance, and training programs nationwide. This leadership position involves optimizing internal processes, enhancing organizational efficiency, and overseeing the effective deployment of resources to support urban development initiatives. By driving operational excellence, Susan Ifill ensures that NeighborWorks America consistently meets the needs of its partners and communities. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's comprehensive oversight guarantees the integrity and impact of all programmatic activities.
    Susan Ifill

    Clare Rosenberger - Vice President, Program Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of

    Clare Rosenberger, the Vice President, Program Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of at NeighborWorks America, drives the execution of programmatic initiatives. Rosenberger oversees the operational aspects of NeighborWorks America's diverse programs, ensuring efficient delivery of financial support and technical assistance to communities. This leadership function involves managing program logistics, optimizing resource utilization, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of urban development efforts. By focusing on operational excellence, Clare Rosenberger ensures that NeighborWorks America's programs achieve maximum impact. The Vice President, Program Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Office of's dedication supports the organization's commitment to community revitalization.
    Clare Rosenberger

    Aaron Knopf - Chief Technology Officer

    Aaron Knopf, the Chief Technology Officer at NeighborWorks America, architects and executes the organization's technology strategy. Knopf directs the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance NeighborWorks America's capacity to deliver financial support, technical assistance, and training for urban development programs. This leadership role involves overseeing all IT infrastructure, ensuring data security, and driving digital transformation initiatives across the organization. By optimizing technology platforms, Aaron Knopf ensures efficient operations and expands the reach of NeighborWorks America's mission. The Chief Technology Officer's focus remains on leveraging technology to empower communities and support sustainable urban growth.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NeighborWorks America Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NeighborWorks America?
    NeighborWorks America is led by Michael Forster (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kemba Esmond (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Kenneth Wae (Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer).
    Who is part of NeighborWorks America’s executive team?
    The executive team of NeighborWorks America includes leaders such as Michael Forster (Chief Financial Officer), Kemba Esmond (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Kenneth Wae (Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NeighborWorks America have?
    NeighborWorks America has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NeighborWorks America’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NeighborWorks America includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President Chief Financial Officer Treasurer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer.