Melanie Tekath
Finance Executive I Board Member I Author I Speaker I Advocate for Business Partnering and Talent Development
Welcome. As a finance executive, board member, and author, I share insights and thought leadership on strategic finance, business partnering, leadership, and organizational growth.
Passionate about advancing business performance through strategic finance, leadership, and meaningful partnerships.

About Melanie
I am a finance executive with a passion for helping organizations navigate complexity, drive performance, and develop future leaders.
Over the course of my career, I have led finance teams across global manufacturing organizations, partnering closely with business leaders to translate strategy into results. My experience spans financial planning and analysis, controlling, business partnering, transformation, working capital management, and organizational leadership.
What motivates me most is the opportunity to create impact beyond the numbers. I believe the most effective finance leaders combine analytical rigor with curiosity, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to developing people. Whether supporting strategic decisions, leading change initiatives, or mentoring emerging talent, I strive to build strong partnerships that enable individuals and organizations to succeed.
Beyond my corporate responsibilities, I serve on the Board of the Financial Executives International (FEI) Eastern Wisconsin Chapter and chair its Diversity & Inclusion Group (DIG), contribute to the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) Accounting Advisory Committee, support Women in Manufacturing (WIM) as a Mentor, serve as an FP&A Trends Group Author and AI FP&A Committee Member, and share industry perspectives as a guest speaker in International Finance at Marquette University. I am also actively involved in volunteer service through Simply Church. These appointments and leadership roles reflect my commitment to advancing the finance profession, supporting talent development, serving my community, and strengthening connections between education and industry.
This website is a space where I share insights, experiences, and lessons learned from my professional journey. My hope is that these perspectives spark ideas, encourage growth, and contribute to meaningful conversations about leadership, finance, and business.

Leadership
Leadership Profile (DISC 2026):
I: 95%, D: 94%, C: 82%, S: 78%
Executive Influencer‑Commander
Leadership extends beyond the workplace. Through board and advisory roles, I am committed to supporting professional development, advancing the finance profession, and helping organizations create meaningful impact within their communities.
Professional Affiliations & Community Leadership:
Board Member and Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Group (DIG), Financial Executives International (FEI)
Financial Executives International (FEI) is a premier association of senior finance leaders dedicated to advancing excellence in financial leadership, corporate governance, and business strategy. As a Board Member and Chair of the Diversity & Inclusion Group (DIG) for the FEI Eastern Wisconsin Chapter, I support the organization's mission of fostering professional development, thought leadership, and collaboration within the finance community.
Accounting Advisory Committee Member, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC)
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is a leading institution focused on workforce development and practical education. As an Advisory Committee Member, I collaborate with educators and industry professionals to help align accounting and finance programs with evolving business needs and prepare future professionals for successful careers.
Marquette University
Guest Speaker in the International Finance program, sharing insights from more than two decades of leadership. Topics include global business dynamics, financial strategy, and the role of finance leaders in supporting multinational operations and driving business growth.
Member and Mentor, Women in Manufacturing (WIM)
Women in Manufacturing (WIM) is a leading industry association focused on empowering women in manufacturing through leadership, education, mentorship, and professional development. Selected WIM Mentor, supporting emerging manufacturing leaders.
Author and AI FP&A Committee Member, FP&A Trends Group
FP&A Trends is a UK-based global platform advancing modern FP&A through research, publications, events, and professional collaboration. As an Author and AI FP&A Committee Member, I share insights and best practices on FP&A, finance transformation, and the application of AI in finance.
Member, IMA (Institute of Management Accountants and Financial Professionals)
Global association supporting accounting and finance professionals through education, certification, and networking. I am currently working toward the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential.
Serve Team Member, Simply Church
Simply Church is a community-focused organization dedicated to helping individuals and families grow in faith and service. As a Serve Team Member, I contribute my time and talents to support community outreach, volunteer initiatives, and organizational activities that positively impact others.
Featured Publications
Explore my latest articles focused on the evolution of strategic finance and leadership
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Planning Season: The Annual Dilemma Between Predictability and Adaptability
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Business Partnering in Finance: Being the Voice of the Business, Not the Voice of the Numbers
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How Much "Alignment Tax" Does Your Organization Pay During Forecasting and Planning?
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From Reporting to Steering: The Evolving Role of Finance in Manufacturing
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Leading Without a Template: Lessons from a Career in Executive Leadership
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From Reporting to Value Creation: A Finance Transformation Case Study
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SOAR vs SWOT: Building the Next Generation of Finance Talent
Speaking & Presentations
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Guest lectures:
October 20, 2026 - Guest speaker, International Finance Class, Marquette University -
Conference & Event Presentations:
November 06, 2026 - Exploring Careers in Finance Event, Marquette University -
Professional Panels
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Webinars
Podcast (Coming in 2027)
Beyond the Boardroom with Mel & Lynor
Where leadership meets real life, and experience meets possibility.
The premier executive conversation platform focused on leadership, governance, innovation, career growth, community involvement and purpose-driven success.