Sophia Wong
Houston
Summary
Senior finance executive with extensive leadership experience in nonprofit finance, accounting, operations, and human resources. Proven track record in financial strategy, budgeting, internal controls, audits, board reporting, and organizational operations. Experienced in working closely with CEOs, Boards of Directors, and Finance/Audit Committees to guide strategic planning, financial sustainability, and organizational growth. Strong background in nonprofit financial management, compliance, risk management, and multi-entity financial oversight.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President, Finance, HR & Operations
Asia Society Texas Center
Houston, Texas
01.2015 - Current
- Serve as senior financial executive responsible for all finance, accounting, HR, and operational functions of the organization. Work closely with the President/CEO, senior leadership team, and Board of Directors on strategic and financial planning.
- Lead all financial operations including accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, and internal controls.
- Prepare and present monthly and quarterly financial reports to the Finance Committee and Board of Directors.
- Lead annual budgeting and long-range financial planning process.
- Developed and implemented organization-wide internal control systems, policies, and financial procedures.
- Rebuilt accounting and financial reporting systems to improve financial transparency and operational efficiency.
- Manage annual audit and preparation of IRS Form 990.
- Develop cash flow projections and maintain minimum cash thresholds for operations.
- Provide financial analysis, strategic recommendations, and operational guidance to executive leadership.
- Review and negotiate major contracts, leases, and vendor agreements.
- Oversee HR functions including payroll, benefits, recruitment, onboarding, employee handbook, and performance management.
- Manage facility operations, insurance coverage, and organizational risk management.
- Support Board committees including Finance, Audit, and Building Committees.
- Support strategic planning and organizational growth initiatives.
- Key Responsibilities & Achievements
Controller / Chief Financial Officer (HR & Finance)
Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County
Houston, Texas
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed all financial operations including accounting, budgeting, grant compliance, and financial reporting.
- Prepared monthly financial statements and reports for Finance and Audit Committee.
- Oversaw grant accounting and compliance with federal, state, and donor requirements.
- Managed annual audit, IRS Form 990, and government reporting.
- Supervised accounting staff and financial operations.
- Managed cash flow and line of credit.
- Developed and updated financial policies and procedures.
Senior Accounting Manager
BakerRipley (Neighborhood Centers Inc.)
Houston, Texas
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Managed general ledger, reconciliations, and monthly close process.
- Strengthened internal controls and accounting procedures.
- Trained staff on accounting systems and financial policies.
- Assisted with audits and financial reporting.
Financial Reporting & Accounting Manager
The University of Texas Health Science Center
Houston, Texas
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
- Assisted with annual operating budget process.
- Supervised accounting, procurement, banking, and reconciliations.
- Managed staff and departmental financial operations.
Controller
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
01.2007 - 01.2012
- Oversaw accounting, grant billing, audits, and financial reporting.
- Managed annual budget process and government grant reporting.
- Supervised accounting staff and financial operations.
- Coordinated annual audit and indirect cost rate negotiations.
Deputy Director of Finance & Administration
Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau
01.2000 - 01.2007
- Managed financial reporting, budgeting, audits, and financial analysis.
- Supervised finance staff and administrative operations.
- Assisted with grant and contract budgeting and financial management.
Education
MBA -
University of Houston
Bachelor of Accounting - undefined
University of Houston
Certificate - Human Resources Management
Cornell University
Skills
- Financial Strategy & Leadership
- Nonprofit Financial Management
- Budget Development & Forecasting
- Financial Reporting & GAAP Compliance
- Internal Controls & Risk Management
- Audit & Tax (Form 990) Oversight
- Cash Flow & Investment Monitoring
- Board & Committee Reporting
- Strategic Planning
- Contract & Grant Financial Oversight
- HR & Operations Management
- Staff Leadership & Team Development
- Accounting Systems: PeopleSoft, Financial Edge, American Fundware, MAS90, QuickBooks, SageIntacct, Advanced Excel
Timeline
Vice President, Finance, HR & Operations
Asia Society Texas Center
01.2015 - Current
Controller / Chief Financial Officer (HR & Finance)
Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County
01.2014 - 01.2015
Senior Accounting Manager
BakerRipley (Neighborhood Centers Inc.)
01.2013 - 01.2014
Financial Reporting & Accounting Manager
The University of Texas Health Science Center
01.2012 - 01.2013
Controller
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
01.2007 - 01.2012
Deputy Director of Finance & Administration
Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau
01.2000 - 01.2007
Bachelor of Accounting - undefined
University of Houston
Certificate - Human Resources Management
Cornell University
MBA -
University of Houston