Dara Bartels is the newest member of Mile Bluff’s executive team.
In March, she began serving as the organization’s Chief Financial
Officer (CFO).
Dara brings with her 20 years of finance experience, most of which has
been spent in healthcare. She has served in the roles of accountant, auditor,
controller and executive director of finance. Most recently, she worked
as the CFO for Gundersen Health System, and was named by Becker’s
Hospital Review as one of the top 150 hospital and health system CFOs
to know in 2017 and 2018.
When looking for a place to continue her career, Dara knew she wanted to
join a team that was rooted in serving the community. “I looked
for an organization that focused on community needs,” stated Dara.
“I appreciate that Mile Bluff has a solid foundation, and is committed
to continually improving.”
She was also drawn to Mile Bluff for its culture. “I strongly believe
in transparency and education. If you want to know something, I’ll
tell you about it if I can,” stated Dara. “Learning that these
two things are strongly valued at Mile Bluff, I was even more convinced
that this was the team for me.”
Dara says that her philosophy as a leader is simple: “I will never
ask anyone to do something that I wouldn’t be willing to do myself.”
She has already proven this to be true, as she has been found washing
dishes with the kitchen staff on a number of occasions. “It’s
important to me that all team members know that I see myself as their
equal...I just have different decision-making opportunities than they
do.”
As a CFO, Dara believes her responsibility is to help others understand
what’s being done, and why it’s being done the way that it
is. “With this culture, an organization will only get stronger,”
commented Dara. “Remaining strong means that we’ll continue
to be around to meet the needs of the community.”
Originally from Iowa, this mother of four enjoys life in the Midwest. She
especially appreciates time with family, including her five-year-old granddaughter.
When she’s not busy working or following her younger children to
their various sporting events, you can find Dara riding her Harley, relaxing
in a boat, or sitting down with a good book.
Her extensive experience and passion for healthcare make her a great fit
for Mile Bluff and area residents. Please welcome Dara.