Christine Shiau
Alexandria
Summary
Visionary and pragmatic executive with 20+ years of experience leading complex, cross-sector initiatives that drive global learning, public impact, and inclusive growth. Known for translating bold ideas into strategy, scaling mission-driven programs, and aligning people and systems for long-term success. Brings a calm, creative, and values-driven approach to leadership—shaped by a conviction that global leadership begins with curiosity, cultural intelligence, and systems-level thinking.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Director
The Aspen Institute, Stevens Initiative
01.2019 - Current
- Promoted to lead one of the Aspen Institute’s flagship international programs, focused on transforming how young people around the world connect and learn. Responsible for strategy, operations, partnerships, and team leadership across a multi-regional portfolio.
- Highlights:
- Scaled the Initiative’s impact and infrastructure—expanding global reach, increasing funding, and growing the team from 3 to 20 across the U.S., MENA, and Latin America.
- Designed and implemented strategy to reach over 1 million youth globally by 2026 through virtual exchange and partnership models.
- Secured $75M+ in federal and philanthropic funding; diversified funder base to increase sustainability.
- Oversaw internal transformation to align team structure, grantmaking processes, and operational systems.
- Forged institutional partnerships with public agencies, schools, youth-serving organizations, and NGOs.
- Represented the Initiative in high-level diplomacy, national convenings, and field-shaping conversations.
- Led advisory council convenings, board communications, and cross-institute engagement.
Assistant Director
The Aspen Institute
01.2018 - 12.2019
- Directed internal operations and cross-functional initiatives to support the program’s scale and transition into its next phase of growth.
- Managed subawards and grants compliance; led team recruitment and onboarding.
- Directed external communications and storytelling efforts, while streamlining cross-stakeholder communication to build momentum around technology-enabled global learning.
Manager, Finance & Compliance
The Aspen Institute
09.2015 - 12.2017
- Managed financial oversight, compliance, and grants management for a $225M portfolio.
- - Built systems and controls to streamline operations and improve audit readiness.
- - Supported program expansion through risk assessment and funder engagement.
Senior Financial Analyst
Kaiser Permanente
01.2014 - 09.2015
- Supported large-scale research and health policy projects through financial modeling, budgeting, and planning.
Grant Analyst
Cook County Homeland Security
03.2010 - 12.2013
- Managed $250M in public funding and intergovernmental coordination.
Accountant
Enterprise Holdings
07.2008 - 02.2010
- Handled financial reporting and reconciliations for multi-site operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with corporate standards.
Auditor
Ernst & Young
08.2006 - 06.2008
- Conducted audits for Fortune 500 clients, assessing risk and ensuring adherence to GAAP and regulatory requirements.
Education
MBA -
University of Maryland
01.2020
BS - Accounting
University of Illinois at Chicago
01.2006
Skills
- Strategic Planning
- Organizational Leadership
- Cross-Sector Partnerships
- Public Diplomacy
- Federal Funding & Compliance
- Change Management
- Innovation & Growth
- Policy Engagement
Certification
- Project Management (PMI)
- Federal Grant Management (Management Concepts)
Affiliations
- DCPS Global Ed – Board Member (Present)
- AMP Global Youth – Board Member (Present)
- Podium Education – Board Member (2022–2024)
- Alliance for International Exchange – Board Member (2020–2024)
Timeline
Executive Director
The Aspen Institute, Stevens Initiative
01.2019 - Current
Assistant Director
The Aspen Institute
01.2018 - 12.2019
Manager, Finance & Compliance
The Aspen Institute
09.2015 - 12.2017
Senior Financial Analyst
Kaiser Permanente
01.2014 - 09.2015
Grant Analyst
Cook County Homeland Security
03.2010 - 12.2013
Accountant
Enterprise Holdings
07.2008 - 02.2010
Auditor
Ernst & Young
08.2006 - 06.2008
BS - Accounting
University of Illinois at Chicago
MBA -
University of Maryland
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