Molly McClellan
Molly McClellan is a finance and operations leader based in South Jordan, Utah, specializing in government accounting, process modernization, and team leadership. Currently serving as AP/AR Manager at Unified Fire Authority, she has led transformative projects that digitized accounts payable workflows, implemented AI for invoice processing, and streamlined operations to absorb a 30% increase in payment volume without adding staff. Molly’s approach combines technical expertise with creativity, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset that empowers teams to work smarter and more efficiently.
Before joining Unified Fire Authority, Molly built her expertise at Caselle, Inc., a software company serving local governments. In customer-facing and consulting roles, she guided organizations through financial system implementations, optimized workflows, and trained staff to leverage technology effectively. These experiences honed her skills in SaaS solutions, process redesign, and client engagement, forming the foundation for her leadership in government finance.
Molly holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Utah Valley University and is pursuing certification as a government manager. She is passionate about continuous improvement, creating efficient systems, and fostering collaborative team environments. Outside of work, she balances family life with entrepreneurial endeavors, including launching a small business in commercial embroidery, and engages in volunteer work through her church. Her long-term goal is to advance into senior finance leadership roles, including city treasurer or finance director.
• Utah Valley University - BS
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Church volunteer work
What do you attribute your success to?
I credit my success to a mindset of continuous improvement and a passion for building efficient systems and strong teams. Stepping into my first leadership role, I inherited a team with challenges in collaboration. By fostering a shared vision and updating processes, I helped transform the team into a supportive, high-performing group. Seeing colleagues grow, connect, and achieve together has been incredibly fulfilling and reinforced my commitment to leadership.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
For young women entering the business world, I would recommend pursuing an accounting degree if you’re unsure of your exact path. It’s incredibly versatile and opens doors to opportunities that many people might not immediately consider, providing a strong foundation for a variety of careers in business.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is adopting modern technology and digitizing systems in local government finance, which can greatly improve efficiency and transparency. At the same time, a significant challenge is leading and rebuilding teams that begin with dysfunctional dynamics, transforming them into cohesive, productive groups. Both require strategic thinking, patience, and a focus on collaboration to achieve meaningful results.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are continuous improvement, efficiency, and fostering a collaborative, energetic team environment. These principles shape how I approach challenges, build relationships, and drive meaningful results.
Locations
Unified Fire Authority
South Jordan, UT 84009