Introducing Tekle Bushen, REACH’s new Chief Financial Officer
REACH has hired Tekle Bushen as the new Chief Financial Officer. Bushen has built an impressive 15-year track record of financial leadership in the non-profit sector that will continue to advance the pipeline of real estate development projects, affordable rental housing portfolio, and community programs and services.
In previous CFO roles, Bushen has led the development and oversight of annual budgets of more than $50 million. Prior to joining REACH, Bushen served as the Chief Financial Officer for Chelan County Housing Authority, providing financial oversight for real estate development finance, property management, asset management and public subsidy programs.
“His passion and dedication to expanding equitable opportunities, including affordable housing, has been a clear theme throughout his career,” said Dan Valliere, REACH CEO. “REACH feels fortunate that Tekle has agreed to join us as CFO and help lead the way forward.”
Bushen holds two Master’s degrees in Accounting and Financial Management (MAFM) and in Business Administration (MBA). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, with a Minor in Accounting.
We caught up with Tekle for a quick Q&A to learn more about him and his goals as CFO.
What was your first job?
My first job was Monitoring and Evaluation officer, providing accounting and programmatic support on a disaster relief project in Africa. That was my dream job, as I always wanted to work in a humanitarian services area. I worked for ADRA, an international organization headquartered in Silver Spring, MD.
What do you do as soon as you get to work?
My priority is to build relationships through a “Listen First” management style. This helps me build trust, identify priorities, and learn the landscapes of both internal and external business environments.
What is your favorite book you have read?
The book is called “The Desire of Ages.” It opened my eyes on how to have the right balance between Justice and Mercy, Love and Truth, and Grace and Accountability. In humanitarian services, it’s not always easy to balance between these pairs, but I strive and challenge myself to be balanced.
What do you like to do during your free time?
I play soccer with my two boys, love to chat with my wife, and volunteer in my church.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“A house divided against itself cannot stand ... Where there is no counsel, plans fail, but in a multitude of counselors, they are established.” - King Solomon
While acknowledging the unique individualities that we’re all created with, I strongly believe in pressing together. Uniting on a common goal for a common vision. This requires maturity and emotional intelligence as we don’t always get what we want, but what we need.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
My dad gave us this advice growing up, “Never lie, but live a life of integrity.”
My mom gave us this advice when we were teens: “Kids, don’t chase for a temporary pleasure. It’ll distract you from aiming high.”
What is something you are looking forward to as CFO at REACH?
I look forward to getting to know REACH staff and being part of a solution to any current challenges REACH has and contributing to taking REACH to the next level.
