At DataKind, our commitment to leveraging data for a better world requires not only innovative minds, but also strategic leadership behind the scenes. Today, we’re thrilled to announce a key addition to that leadership: Matt Benford, our new Vice President, Finance and Operations.
Matt’s arrival marks a significant step forward in strengthening the very foundation that allows our impactful work to thrive. With 15 years dedicated to the nonprofit space, Matt brings a proven track record of aligning financial strength with mission-driven goals.
Most recently, as Chief Financial Officer of Sonoma Community Action Network, Matt played a pivotal role in their financial health and organizational growth. His expertise will be invaluable as he takes on the crucial responsibilities of ensuring DataKind’s financial sustainability and optimizing our operational efficiency, from long-term financial strategy to the smooth functioning of our internal and people operations.
We’re incredibly excited to welcome Matt and witness the impact he’ll have on our ability to scale our product-focused strategy. Want to get to know him? Read on for a Q&A with Matt.
What were you up to before DataKind?
Most recently, I served as Chief Financial Officer for Sonoma CAN, a community action agency in Sonoma County, California, where I led financial strategy and operational initiatives to support community-centric programs. Prior to that, I was with the United Way Bay Area as Vice President of Finance. My career has been centered around driving financial strategy, improving operational efficiency, and fostering collaboration with partners to ensure sustainability and impact. I’ve also worked closely on projects that required aligning financial resources with programmatic goals, particularly in developing infrastructure to support growth.
Why are you excited to join DataKind?
I’m excited to join DataKind because I deeply resonate with its mission of leveraging data and technology to drive social impact. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how data-informed decision-making can transform nonprofits’ effectiveness and sustainability, and I’ve been privileged to support that work from both a financial and operational lens. Joining DataKind presents an incredible opportunity to be part of a team that amplifies this type of work on a global scale.
What do you like to do in your free time?
To recharge, I enjoy spending time with my family, following sports (Formula 1 and basketball), and drumming. On weekends, you can often find me doing a combination of all three.
Join the DataKind movement.
- Interested in supporting our work? Donate here.
- Interested in sponsoring a project? Partner with us.
- Interested in volunteering with DataKind? Look no further.
- Interested in working at DataKind? We’re hiring!
- Interested in submitting a project? Go for it!
