MARK NEILSON

Mark Neilson is a seasoned finance leader and self-described “recovering CFO” after 25 years serving as Chief Financial Officer for upper-middle-market companies across diverse industries. Today, he has shifted into what he calls the “pay-it-forward” chapter of his career, facilitating CFO peer groups, advising executives, and serving on multiple corporate and nonprofit boards. Known as a blue-ocean thinker, Neilson brings an outsider’s lens to long-standing challenges, always seeking innovative ways to improve organizational practices and outcomes.

His nonprofit involvement is extensive. Neilson currently serves as Board Chair for the Catholic Community Foundation of San Diego, TERI, Inc. in Oceanside, and Catholic in Recovery. In addition, he actively supports roughly a dozen other San Diego nonprofits through volunteerism, fundraising, and philanthropy. Passionate about community-building, Neilson is also a connector who enjoys helping individuals and organizations upgrade their resources and capabilities through strategic introductions.

On the business side, Neilson leads REF Executive Peer Groups, supporting CEOs and C-suite executives, and acts as a cost-savings facilitator with Accretive. He serves on three corporate boards of directors and is the current Chapter President of Financial Executives International (FEI) San Diego. His blend of financial acumen, governance experience, and strategic insight continues to benefit leaders and organizations across sectors.

Outside of his professional and community commitments, Neilson values cultivating connections, exploring new ideas, and engaging in meaningful service. He finds joy in helping others thrive, whether through business mentorship, nonprofit leadership, or simply linking people to the right resources at the right time.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcneilson/