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Paulette Harris

Job Title: VP Controller (Finance Department)
Company: Seattle Sounders FC
Industry: Professional Sports
Mentor Since: 2021
Will Mentor: Sport & Entertainment Management, Graduate Students
Mentor Type: Sport and Entertainment
Profile

Background

Job Description

Manage the financial and regulatory compliance of the organization. Produce accurate and timely internal and external financial statements, tax returns and other management reports. Support the development and implementation of club goals and priorities through financial management, budgeting, accounting, financial analysis, and purchasing.

Company Description

Seattle Sounders FC is a professional soccer club in the Western Conference of Major League Soccer (MLS). The club has made the playoffs every year since its inaugural season in 2009 and played in four MLS Cup championships. The club won the MLS Cup title in 2016 and 2019. In addition to success on the pitch, the club is committed to use its platform to Fight Racism, Defend the Right to Play, Stand for LGBTQ Equality and Protect Our Planet. The RAVE Foundation is the official 501c-3 charitable arm of the Sounders. Its mission is to build small fields for free play and invest in programs that use soccer as a vehicle to inspire youth and strengthen communities.

Employment History

Over 20 years of accounting experience working for private and public companies including Seattle Sounders FC, Boeing, Blue Origin, Port of Tacoma, Vulcan Inc., and Frank Russell.

Education

Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Seattle University

Mentoring Objectives & Scope

My objective is to have honest and meaningful conversations about career planning and provide specific actionable items that the mentee can use to set themselves up for success. I hope to have open dialogue and build a relationship that extends beyond this program. I want to be a resource and provide as much guidance as I can to support the development of the mentee. I expect that they come to each meeting prepared and willing to learn.

When and where do you hold meetings with your students?

I can be flexible depending on the location and schedule of the mentee. I am able to meet in person at a coffee shop or restaurant in Seattle or we can meet virtually when necessary.

Additional Information

I am a Seattle University MBA graduate and excited to be a part of this program. I look forward to sharing my experiences inside and outside of the sports industry. Sports have always been a part of my life since I grew up playing and being a fan of various sports. I am fortunate to work for a great organization like the Sounders and look forward to providing as much knowledge and insight as possible.