COO/CFO | Strategic Operations & Finance Leader | Driving Digital Transformation & Diversity Advocate | Mentor for Emerging Leaders
Meet Katherine Rivette from the Philippines, a visionary leader in operations and finance. With a strong academic foundation and a wealth of experience in both the nonprofit and corporate sectors, she excels in driving strategic financial management and digital transformation. Katherine is dedicated to empowering emerging leaders and promoting diversity, ensuring her legacy extends beyond her own achievements.
Early Aspirations and Academic Foundations
Born and raised in the Philippines, Katherine Rivette’s passion for leadership and financial management was evident early on. Her academic journey began at La Consolacion College, where she graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She furthered her education with a Master’s in Counseling at Ateneo de Manila University and later earned a Master’s in Organizational Leadership from National University in San Diego.
“My education shaped not just my skills but my philosophy towards leadership,” Katherine recalls, reflecting on how her studies emphasized the human element in management and finance.
Stepping into the Professional World
Katherine’s career started with remarkable determination. Working her way from a billing clerk to Chief Auditor of Central Negros Electric Co. within just seven years, she developed a keen understanding of finance and operational oversight. Transitioning into the nonprofit sector, she took on leadership roles at Habitat for Humanity, Children’s Hospital, Deaf Community Services, and Second Chance Program. At Habitat for Humanity, as Director of Finance, Administration, and IT, she excelled in strategic financial management and systems integration, bringing about greater financial transparency, stewardship and reporting accuracy.
Rising to Executive Leadership
Katherine’s career trajectory reached new heights when she became COO/CFO at Henderson, Caverly & Pum, LLP. Her leadership was pivotal in modernizing the firm’s operations, particularly by introducing digital transformation strategies that enhanced client services, improved profitability, and streamlined legal processes. She led a firm-wide systems migration that doubled financial and operational efficiency, while effectively managing the shift to remote work during the pandemic.
“Operational excellence comes from aligning the right systems, processes, and people,” she explains, underscoring her strategic approach to leadership.
Expertise and Specialization
Katherine’s skillset spans finance, accounting, internal control, risk management, and digital transformation. Holding two CPA licenses one from the Philippines and the other from California—along with her CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) certification, she has mastered the ability to bridge operational efficiency with client satisfaction. Her leadership has led to significant improvements in budgeting processes, trust fund reconciliations, and operational savings.
In addition to her role at Henderson, Caverly & Pum, LLP, Katherine has held leadership position as Controller at Shoe Metro, where her forward-thinking approach to inventory management and financial oversight drove operational efficiencies and significantly improved profit margins.
Commitment to Diversity and Leadership
Katherine is a staunch advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She actively mentors emerging female leaders and promotes diverse perspectives in leadership roles. As a board member of the National University Alumni Association and the Association of Legal Administrators, Katherine’s influence extends beyond her immediate organization. Additionally, as a certified John Maxwell Trainer, she shares her insights on leadership and personal growth with a broader audience. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders is a defining aspect of her legacy. Katherine is also an active volunteer with several church ministries and community organizations.
Awards and Recognition
Katherine’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has been a nominee for Top Tech Executive awards for two consecutive years, a recognition of her innovative approach to integrating technology into operational management.
Legacy and Future Vision
Katherine’s career is a testament to her relentless pursuit of operational excellence and her commitment to fostering growth within organizations and individuals alike.
“I believe leadership is not just about driving results today but building systems that ensure success for the future,” Katherine shares, reflecting her integrated approach to management.
Leadership Lessons
- Empower Through Systems: Efficient systems allow teams to focus on strategic goals, driving both productivity and innovation.
- Lead with Empathy: Building strong teams requires understanding and emotional intelligence.
- Continuous Improvement: Leaders should focus on ongoing refinement in processes, aiming for long-term success and sustainability.
- Mentorship is Key: True leadership involves creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive.
Katherine Rivette exemplifies how strategic leadership, and financial acumen can transform organizations, positioning them for sustainable growth and success.
Editorial Note
Katherine Rivette’s journey is a testament to the power of strategic leadership and unwavering commitment to operational excellence. Her focus on mentorship and diversity not only shapes the future of her organizations but also inspires the next generation of leaders. As she continues to innovate and transform, Katherine stands as a beacon of progress in the finance and operations landscape. We look forward to witnessing her ongoing impact in the industry and beyond.
