Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/1520667
New WAC Chief Financial Officer Rena Wong started at the Club near the begin- ning of the year. Her contributions began immediately, including a comprehensive forecast to help chart the WAC's financial path. Rena's history of financial leadership in the Seattle area, including with Whole Foods, Aegis Living, and Nordstrom, brings renewed cogency to the Club's top financial position. "I've found my dream job," Rena says of joining the WAC. "I'm beyond thrilled to be a part of this venerable club." Rena grew up in Seattle, graduated from Ballard High School, and attended the University of Washington for her accounting and finance undergraduate degrees and MBA. "Part of my job is to demystify finan- cial concepts for our team members to help connect the dots," Rena says. Since joining the WAC, Rena has been involved in various strategic projects, including an upgrade to the accounting system, which went live at the end of Feb- ruary. Her knack for operations kicked off a new enterprise labor report, bringing visibility to the Club's largest expense category. "Rena has a strong history of financial group leadership," WAC President & CEO Chuck Nelson says. "We're thrilled to have her on the WAC team, and we look for- ward to her leadership of our wonderful accounting team." Away from work, Rena plays bad- minton, strives to maintain a vegan diet, and is a mother to two sons, ages 18 and 20. She also enjoys travel and mahjong and has a passion for architecture and interior design. SPRING / SUMMER 2024 9 first take new cfo / remembering jim johnson Family, friends, and colleagues of the late Jim Johnson gathered in the Crystal Ballroom this past March to celebrate his life and honor his memory. Jim served as the Washington Athletic Club's President & CEO from 1996–2012. Jim's community-building efforts made the WAC a special place for members and team members alike. During his tenure, the Club underwent renovations, strengthened local partnerships, and expanded operations. Jim's considerable contributions to the WAC always focused on making member experiences special and memorable. e Johnson Lobby Lounge is named in his honor, and his spirit lives on with the WAC's continued commitment to leadership, excellence, integrity, service, and sensitivity. Jim Johnson was an unforgettable steward of the WAC, and he will be greatly missed. He passed away on February 28, 2024, at age 82. Remembering Jim Johnson Welcome, Rena Wong! New CFO brings wealth of experience to role E M I L I O H U E R TA S ( 4 ) Jim Johnson, WAC President & CEO, 1996–2012