Leading with Purpose: The Story of Ella Meki and the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
By: Hilario Caro, Talent Optimization at StaffBuffalo
In this inspiring episode of the Pain Points Podcast, I sat down with Ella Meki, Chief Financial Officer at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, to talk about her career journey—from discovering accounting in high school to leading finance for one of Western New York’s most impactful nonprofit organizations. Ella’s story is one of persistence, purpose, and redefining success beyond the numbers.
Finding Purpose Through Practicality
Ella’s passion for accounting began early, inspired by her grandfather’s advice after World War II: “Every business needs an accountant.” She took that wisdom to heart—completing her first internship in high school and connecting with Ernst & Young (EY) before even finishing college. Her drive, curiosity, and openness to learning paved the way for a full-time role at EY, where she honed her skills in public accounting, compliance, and leadership.
From the Partner’s Seat to the Client’s Chair
After several years in public accounting, Ella realized she wanted to experience business from the inside out. That realization led her to Praxair (later Lindy), where she spent over a decade in various finance and compliance roles. She led Sarbanes-Oxley initiatives, built cross-border teams, and traveled internationally—collaborating with colleagues in Canada, Germany, and beyond.
Her ability to translate complex financial processes into clear, human-centered communication became a hallmark of her leadership style. “It’s about making people feel confident in the numbers,” she explained. “You have to paint the financial picture so everyone in the room understands it.”
Lessons in Leadership and Balance
Through years of experience in global corporations, Ella learned the importance of advocacy and boundaries. “You are your own best advocate,” she shared. “If you don’t communicate your goals, others will fill in the silence.”
Now, as CFO at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, she applies those lessons to foster a workplace rooted in balance and intentionality. She encourages her team to find structure that works for them—like her own “Friday Desk Day,” dedicated to focus, planning, and reflection. “Boundaries aren’t barriers,” she said. “They create space for excellence.”
Empowering Philanthropy Through Finance
The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo manages more than 1,200 funds—totaling over $900 million in assets—to support local philanthropy, scholarships, and community initiatives. “We’re stewards of legacies,” Ella explained. “Each fund represents someone’s story, someone’s dream for Buffalo.”
From early endowments like the Rand Family Fund, established in 1919, to modern organizational partnerships, the Foundation’s work channels generosity into measurable community impact. Ella’s financial leadership ensures that every dollar honors donor intent while building a sustainable future for the region.
Redefining Success and Legacy
When reflecting on her journey, Ella spoke candidly about shifting her definition of success. “For a long time, my career was my anchor,” she said. “Now, my life is. I want to be remembered not just as someone who worked hard—but as someone who lived fully and helped others do the same.”
At StaffBuffalo, we celebrate leaders like Ella who blend technical expertise with empathy, vision, and community spirit. Just as the Community Foundation helps build Buffalo’s philanthropic legacy, we help connect talented professionals with purposeful work that leaves a lasting impact.
If Ella’s story resonates with you, visit cfgb.org to learn more about the Community Foundation’s mission and discover how you can contribute to Buffalo’s bright future.