Cindy Mitchell Kniss
About Cindy Mitchell Kniss
Cindy Mitchell Kniss serves as the CFO and VP of Finance and Administration at the Science Center of Iowa, a position she has held since 2010. With a background in finance and accounting, she has previously worked in various roles, including Director of Finance at the Des Moines Symphony and as a Grant Compliance Specialist at Des Moines Public Schools.
Current Position at Science Center of Iowa
Cindy Mitchell Kniss has served as the Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Finance and Administration at the Science Center of Iowa since 2010. In this role, she oversees the financial operations and strategic planning of the organization. Her responsibilities include budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. With over a decade in this position, she has contributed to the financial stability and growth of the Science Center.
Previous Experience in Finance
Before her current role, Cindy worked at the Des Moines Symphony and Academy as the Director of Finance from 2006 to 2010. In this capacity, she managed financial planning and reporting for the organization. Prior to that, she was employed by Des Moines Public Schools as a Grant Compliance Specialist and Staff Accountant from 1999 to 2004. Her early career included a position as a Staff Auditor at the State of Iowa from 1997 to 1999, where she conducted audits and ensured compliance with state financial regulations.
Educational Background in Accounting
Cindy Mitchell Kniss earned her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting from Iowa State University - Ivy College of Business, completing her studies from 1991 to 1994. She also holds an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree in Business Administration from Des Moines Area Community College, which she obtained from 1988 to 1990. Her educational background has provided her with a solid foundation in financial management and accounting principles.
Career Timeline and Progression
Cindy's career in finance began in 1997 when she worked as a Staff Auditor for the State of Iowa. She transitioned to Des Moines Public Schools in 1999, where she worked for five years. After her tenure there, she held the position of Director of Finance at the Des Moines Symphony and Academy from 2006 to 2010. Since 2010, she has been with the Science Center of Iowa, where she continues to advance her career in financial leadership.