Kris Hess, an accomplished operations and financial leader with deep nonprofit and higher education experience, is Civic Nebraska’s new director of operations. She began Sept. 29.

In this senior leadership role, Kris oversees Civic Nebraska’s internal systems to ensure the organization’s financial health, regulatory compliance, and a strong organizational culture. She oversees our Finance and People & Culture teams, directs core operational strategies, and ensures alignment with our mission, values, and long-term goals.

“I’m proud to join an organization that promotes democracy, because I believe democracy can power change that benefits the entire community,” Kris said. “Civic Nebraska empowers and reminds people that every single voice matters, and that’s work I’m honored to support.”

Her responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day internal operations to build cross-program efficiency and transparency, developing long-term operational plans with fellow senior leaders at Civic Nebraska, leading budgeting and audit processes, ensuring the proper allocation and tracking of gifts and grants, and serving as the organization’s lead financial officer.

Kris brings a deep well of operational expertise to Civic Nebraska. Most recently, she was the chief operating officer at TOGETHER in Omaha, where she oversaw daily operations, finance, accounting, and human resources. Her leadership encompassed strategic planning, financial oversight, HR modernization, and enhancements to regulatory compliance. Before that, Kris held a senior leadership role at Nebraska Methodist College, where she led student affairs, operations, budgeting, and campus expansion initiatives.

A Nebraska native who grew up in Ralston, Kris earned her master’s degree and doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Nebraska and her undergraduate degree in business administration from Kearney State College (now UNK). She is also a SHRM Certified Professional. Beyond work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, attending sporting and performing arts events, and traveling.

Welcome, Kris – we’re glad to have you on the team!