Leading From the 50-Yard Line: Financial Strategy in a High-Stakes Industry

Laura Anderson, senior vice president of administration and chief financial officer for the Chicago Bears, oversees the organization’s financial, accounting and information technology operations. She plays a key role in navigating an evolving financial environment and leveraging technology to support organizational strategy. Previously, Laura spent seven years with the Big Ten Conference, where she served as CFO to the office of the commissioner and treasurer to the board of directors, providing strategic guidance to university leadership and athletic governance bodies. Her background also includes senior financial consulting as well as audit, and she has advised numerous clients, including multinational and publicly traded companies.

Allison Maki, senior vice president of administration and chief financial officer for the Detroit Lions, leads the organization’s finance, accounting, information technology and facility operations. She supports long-term facility planning, oversees and manages the Lions’ key business partnerships, and serves as treasurer for Detroit Lions Charities. Allison contributes to league-wide initiatives as a member of the NFL’s Club Technology Advisory Board and is one of only nine female CFOs within the NFL. Prior to joining the Lions in 2004, she spent seven years at Ernst & Young, LLP, working in public accounting.

Kate Shibilski, executive vice president and chief financial officer for the Minnesota Vikings, provides continued leadership of the accounting and finance functions of the team. She plays a critical leadership role in the organization’s budgeting and financial planning as well as league reporting. Kate also oversees the financial relationship with U.S. Bank Stadium and works in partnership with the Viking Lakes campus. Prior to joining the Vikings, Kate spent several years at Deloitte as well as Best Buy, where she held various accounting and finance roles.

Maureen Smith, chief financial officer for the Green Bay Packers, has more than 20 years of experience across the sports, healthcare, consulting and finance industries. She leads the Packers’ financial operations and oversees the club’s information technology department. Kate joined the Packers after seven years with Minnesota United FC of Major League Soccer, where she served as controller as well as senior vice president of finance and oversaw the construction and opening of Allianz Field.

Sam Smith, managing director with The Prouty Project, is known by his clients and colleagues for expanding curiosity, uncovering insights and driving action. He lives by his two favorite questions: “What if?” and “Why not?” as well as his two favorite statements: “We can!” and “Let’s go!” For nearly 20 years, Sam has worked with executives to drive change, create adaptive advantage and accelerate meaningful innovation. He designs and facilitates experiential solutions that enable him to do what he is most passionate about: helping people see and believe in what’s possible.