Dennis Ardis

About Dennis Ardis

I have 10+ years of leadership experience across venture-backed startups and mission-driven organizations. My expertise spans strategy, finance, and operations, and I bring the ability to bridge these areas to drive execution in complex, fast-moving environments.Most recently as CEO (and de facto CFO) of a venture-backed fintech, I led strategic planning, multi-scenario forecasting, equity and debt fundraising, and investor relations. I built and maintained financial models, developed capital strategy, negotiated with investors and creditors, and oversaw governance, risk, and compliance. In parallel, I guided company-wide OKRs, partnered with product and go-to-market teams, and scaled systems and processes that improved efficiency and unit economics.I combine analytical rigor with a builder’s mindset – designing financial systems, structuring teams, and creating tools that enhance decision-making and growth. Over the course of my career, I have steered organizations through uncertainty, aligned diverse stakeholders, and delivering results in complex, fast-moving markets.I hold a JD from NYU School of Law and am currently pursuing an Executive MBA at The Wharton School, focusing on strategic finance, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Experience

1. VP of Finance

   Formation Financial

   Jan 2026 — Present

Education

• University of Oklahoma

  Bachelor's Degree, B.B.A. Finance & Accounting; B.S. International Area Studies

  2003 — 2008

• The Wharton School

  Executive MBA

  2025 — 2027

• New York University School of Law

  Juris Doctor (J.D.), International Law and Legal Studies

  2011 — 2014