Jamie Pinkston

Vice President, Accounting, Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Chicago

Jamie is a CPA with more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit accounting and finance. He graduated from Illinois State University and began his career at RSM US LLP, where he spent ten years specializing in audits of nonprofit organizations and service companies. During his time at RSM, he worked extensively with the Jewish Federation of Chicago (Federation) and its related entities. 

In 2008, Jamie joined the Federation as Vice President of Accounting. He oversees the organization’s accounting and finance department, providing leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight. His accomplishments include restructuring the accounting department to streamline operations, improving the timeliness and quality of financial reporting, and ensuring audits and Form 990 filings are completed more efficiently. He has managed several debt refinancings that generated significant savings for the organization and has substantial experience executing and terminating interest rate arrangements. Jamie also leads a team of 20 employees.  

He has overseen the implementation of three major software systems—spanning accounting and expense reporting—which have enhanced efficiency and improved the user experience across the organization. Under his financial leadership, Moody’s has upgraded the Federation’s credit rating three times, moving from A1 to Aa1. 

Outside of work, Jamie enjoys exercising, stand-up paddle boarding, and baking (and eating) all types of pizza. He is also an avid fan of the Cubs and Bears.