Elizabeth Kittner joins Leelyn Smith as chief financial officer

Elizabeth Kittner has joined Leelyn Smith, a Chicago area accounting and wealth advisory firm, as a managing director and chief financial officer.
Kittner brings more than 20 years of experience in finance, accounting, and human capital management to the role. As CFO, she will oversee Leelyn Smith’s CFO, accounting, and tax services – including cash flow management, budgeting, forecasting, compliance, and profitability optimization offerings for clients.
Kittner joins Leelyn Smith from technology research firm GigaOm, where she was the CFO. Before that, Kittner was VP of finance and HR at the International Legal Technology Association, controller at Litera Microsystems, and director of accounting and compliance at ArrowStream.
She began her career at PwC, where she was a senior associate in the assurance business.
Kittner has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and is a certified public accountant, certified global management accountant, and certified information technology professional.
“Elizabeth’s extensive expertise and track record in transforming financial operations will elevate our ability to meet the complex needs of our clients,” said Drew Grider, president of Leelyn Smith. “Her forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our mission to deliver tailored, impactful solutions. We are thrilled to welcome her to our team.”
Leelyn Smith was founded in 1968 and has 34 employees. The boutique firm provides wealth management, tax, accounting, and family office services.
“It’s an honor to join Leelyn Smith and contribute to its mission of delivering exceptional service to clients,” Kittner said. “The firm’s innovative approach, collaborative culture, and unwavering commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. I look forward to building on this foundation to create even greater value for our clients and the communities we serve.”