Kauffman taps financial exec to help foundation invest in ideas, collaborations that expand opportunity

A newly named addition to the leadership cabinet at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is expected to play a crucial role in fostering equitable, inclusive, and sustainable prosperity, said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, announcing Ben Clouse as the organization’s chief financial officer.

“Ben brings a proven record of strategic financial leadership and a deep commitment to community,” said Burns-Wallace, president and CEO of the Kauffman Foundation. “His experience guiding organizations through growth and transformation will be invaluable as we continue to invest in ideas and collaborations that expand opportunity.”

The executive joins the Kauffman Foundation after more than 25 years working in top leadership positions across multiple industries. Most recently, he served as CFO for CrossFirst Bankshares, Inc., where he led accounting, analytics, financial planning & analysis, investor relations, and treasury functions, and played a key role in strategic growth initiatives. His previous leadership roles include serving as CFO at Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., and executive positions at Airshare and H&R Block.

As CFO at the Kauffman Foundation, Clouse is expected to oversee the organization’s financial management, planning, and reporting functions, ensuring resources are effectively aligned to support programmatic and strategic priorities. He will also play a critical leadership role in building systems that promote transparency, accountability, and impact across the organization.

His new role is effective Nov. 11.

“I am honored to join the Kauffman Foundation and contribute to its mission of empowering communities and entrepreneurs,” Clouse said. “Strong financial stewardship is critical to advancing the Foundation’s work, and I look forward to collaborating with the leadership team and associates to extend the Foundation’s impact.”

Clouse holds a Master of Accountancy and Bachelor of Business Administration from Kansas State University.

He also brings deep community engagement experience, the Kauffman Foundation said, noting Clouse serves as board chair of the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas and as a member of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Finance Council.