Denise Keiser
Director of Business Operations
Denise Keiser is the Director of Business Operations at BALANCE and a dedicated, purpose-driven leader committed to advancing financial well-being and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. She is an Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Media Studies.
Throughout her career, Denise has embraced a mission-driven approach, leading teams, and coaching individuals toward financial resilience. At BALANCE, she oversees the Business Intelligence, Training, and Certified Financial Planner teams, aligning operations with the organization’s purpose of improving financial health for clients and communities. Her innovative leadership has been instrumental in transforming BALANCE’s service model from a primarily counseling-based approach to one centered on coaching for outcomes, driving measurable progress in financial well-being and deepening partner engagement.
Denise’s ability to develop and nurture talent is one of her most impactful contributions. In 2024, she launched the Leadership Foundations Training Program, designed to equip new leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive. This initiative has cultivated leadership growth within the organization, ensuring long-term success and sustainability. By fostering a culture of growth and empowerment, Denise has directly influenced the upward mobility of employees, positioning them for continued success.
Prior to BALANCE, Denise held pivotal roles in the nonprofit and housing sectors, including serving as Executive Director of the Center for Financial Health, where she secured funding, expanded community partnerships, and scaled service delivery. She also worked with Shea Mortgage and other housing organizations, designing systems to manage high volumes of affordable housing applications, funding, and closings, benefiting thousands of families.
Denise’s passion for purpose extends beyond leadership and talent development to her ability to create and deliver innovative, engaging content. As a freelance Money Expert for WLNS-TV, a CBS News affiliate, from 2017 to 2020, she developed and presented weekly Money Monday segments, offering practical financial tips to a wide audience. She has also collaborated with organizations like the Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF) to deliver impactful professional development programs that strengthen the financial wellness ecosystem. These experiences highlight her expertise in crafting compelling messaging, translating complex financial concepts into actionable advice, and leveraging media to inspire and empower diverse audiences.
Denise’s unwavering focus on purpose, combined with her expertise in financial services, talent development, media content creation, and operational leadership, positions her as a catalyst for positive impact. Her vision is clear: to lead with purpose, empower individuals, and deliver innovative financial wellness solutions that inspire long-term resilience and success.