About G. Scott Mitchell, CPA, MBA - Nonprofit Leadership Coach & CFO Advisor
With nearly four decades of nonprofit leadership and financial expertise, I help faith-based leaders align mission, strategy, and financial systems—so they can lead with clarity and confidence.
Called to Serve Nonprofit Leaders
Leaders should never have to sacrifice their mission because of unclear systems, financial complexity, or leadership isolation. Yet too often, that’s the reality for faith-based executives and nonprofit leaders carrying the full weight of their calling.
Over nearly four decades of service — from my earliest church roles to the mission field and later as CFO and Vice President of international ministries — I learned this truth: clarity and alignment are what free leaders to focus on their purpose.
That conviction drives my work today. Through coaching and CFO advising, I come alongside leaders like you to bring clarity, confidence, and alignment so your mission can thrive.
Scott’s unique blend of experience in the nonprofit sector brought wisdom, knowledge and confidence to all our financial matters. DK, Ministry Leader
My Journey in Nonprofit Leadership
Executive Profile
G. Scott Mitchell, CPA, MBA, brings nearly 40 years of nonprofit leadership experience — beginning in 1986 when, as a 20-year-old volunteer, he helped his church computerize its accounting and mailing systems. Since then, he has served ministries ranging from small local churches and municipalities to international organizations with budgets exceeding $30 million.
His leadership includes roles as Finance Director and CFO, overseeing multi-entity financial structures, guiding board reporting and strategy, and implementing systems that drive organizational clarity and sustainability.
Today, as Founder of Nonprofit Breakthrough LLC, Scott partners with CxOs, boards, and financial teams of faith-based nonprofits to align mission, strategy, and financial systems for long-term impact.
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Began as Finance Director (2005–2007) before promotion to CFO (2007–2009) for an international ministry with a $20–30M budget. During this time, Scott earned his CPA license (2008). Oversaw finance for six entities, implemented Microsoft Dynamics, introduced organization-wide budgeting tools, and worked with legal/tax advisors to restructure the nonprofit’s legal framework. Served as Board Secretary and Treasurer, presenting regularly to the board.
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Served at a boutique CPA firm specializing in nonprofit clients. Gained valuable experience in nonprofit tax preparation, audit software, and client communication, while supporting the firm’s transition to a new office buildout. Though not a natural fit long-term, this role strengthened Scott’s technical proficiency in nonprofit tax and compliance — skills he continues to leverage in advising clients today.
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Provided finance and administrative leadership for GSDM, a global ministry with annual budgets of $5–10M. Responsibilities included financial systems, board reporting, and organizational strategy, while serving as Board Secretary and a member of the Strategic Leadership Team. (This was a staff leadership role, not a seat on the board of directors.)
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Established Breakthrough Coaching as a DBA of Nonprofit Breakthrough. Today, partners with CxOs, boards, and financial teams to strengthen alignment of mission, strategy, and financial systems.
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Served overseas in staff leadership roles as an administrative pastor and instructor, while also working in finance and operations. Oversaw international programs for a small missions organization. These experiences shaped a global perspective and the ability to adapt leadership across cultures.
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Built financial systems for towns, churches, and schools; introduced fund accounting to a church denomination headquarters; and began with hands-on roles ranging from church bookkeeper to municipal accountant. Earned a BS in Accounting with a Computer Science minor (Clemson University) and an MBA specializing in Missions and Nonprofit Management (Regent University).
Career Highlights
Next Step
Your mission deserves clarity and alignment at every level — from financial systems to leadership strategy. Let’s talk about how I can help your organization move forward with confidence.
Beyond the Résumé
Early in my career, I learned that technical expertise alone wasn’t enough. While financial systems and strategy matter, it was the soft skills — personal connection, trust, and relationship — that opened the door for true partnership.
Those relationships allowed me into strategic spaces where others, who took a rigid “CF-NO” approach, were shut out.
Because of that foundation, I’ve been able to guide tough conversations with boards and executives, not as an outsider imposing rules, but as a trusted partner committed to helping leaders find clarity, alignment, and sustainable solutions.
The same qualities that shape my professional work — curiosity, steadiness, and a people-first approach — also define who I am outside of the office. Whether I’m on the trail, serving in my church, or spending time with my family, I carry the same conviction: leadership is about more than numbers. It’s about people, purpose, and presence.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your mission deserves a trusted partner who can bring clarity, alignment, and confidence to your leadership journey. Whether you’re navigating financial complexity, leading a team through change, or seeking a trusted sounding board, I’d welcome the chance to come alongside you.
Schedule a Discovery Session
No pressure - just a conversation about your mission and goals.