Russell Farnell
About Russell Farnell
Russell Farnell is a Financial Controller with extensive experience in finance and operations across various organizations. He has held key positions at AKQA, The Linux Foundation, and currently at Black Girls CODE, demonstrating expertise in strategic planning, negotiations, and team building.
Current Role at Black Girls CODE
Russell Farnell has been serving as the Financial Controller at Black Girls CODE since 2022. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the organization, ensuring that financial practices align with its mission to empower young girls of color in technology. His focus includes implementing business controls that support the organization's growth and sustainability.
Previous Experience at AKQA
Prior to his current position, Farnell worked at AKQA as the Executive Director of Finance & Operations from 2004 to 2014. During his ten years in this role, he was based in the San Francisco Bay Area and played a significant part in enhancing departmental performance through effective negotiations and team building.
Experience at The Linux Foundation
From 2014 to 2018, Farnell served as the VP of Finance, HR, and Operations at The Linux Foundation. His tenure in this position allowed him to further develop his expertise in strategic planning and analysis, which are essential for achieving long-term organizational goals.
Educational Background
Russell Farnell studied at the University of Oxford, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from 1988 to 1992. This academic background provided him with a strong analytical foundation that supports his financial and operational roles in various organizations.
Skills and Expertise
Farnell possesses a range of skills that contribute to his effectiveness as a financial leader. His expertise includes system implementation, process improvement, and delivering board presentations. He has a proven track record of effectively communicating financial insights to stakeholders, which aids in informed decision-making.