Ruth Vollmer
Ruth Vollmer, MBA, is a seasoned business development and nonprofit consultant based in Mobile, Alabama, with nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. A graduate of Rutgers University–Camden and MBA recipient from Spring Hill College—where she was named Outstanding MBA Graduate of the Year—Ruth has built a career defined by fiscal discipline, strategic growth, and mission-driven leadership. She was also recognized among the 25 Outstanding CFOs in the state of Alabama in 2023, highlighting her impact within the nonprofit community.
Most recently, Ruth served as CFO and Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration for Gulf Regional Early Childhood Services, Inc. (GRECS), where she oversaw budgeting, auditing, cash flow management, internal controls, procurement, and grant administration for programs exceeding $15 million annually in federal and state funding. During her tenure, she strengthened financial systems, improved audit outcomes, increased net assets, and supported strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability. Her leadership helped expand high-quality early childhood education services to families across the Gulf region.
Today, Ruth works as a full-time consultant specializing in nonprofit finance, grant writing and administration, government contracting, and startup business planning. She currently supports WheelCare, LLC in developing a nonprofit subsidiary, WeCare, to provide subsidized transportation services to low-income and uninsured patients. Known for her integrity, loyalty to staff, and instinct-driven leadership, Ruth is committed to building financially sound organizations that can grow responsibly, expand services, and fairly compensate the people who carry out their missions.
• CPA (Candidate)
• Series 63
• Spring Hill College
• Rutgers University - Camden
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to thorough research, strong attention to detail, and the confidence to trust my instincts when making decisions. Just as important has been my commitment to building strong relationships and networks that create opportunities and long-term impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering the industry to follow their instincts and do thorough research so they can speak with confidence and clarity. Build and actively use your network, and don’t allow yourself to be pigeonholed—be proud of your background and present yourself with confidence. Think creatively about where opportunities are found and who holds them. Some of the most valuable connections happen outside traditional channels, so be open to meeting people in unexpected places and exploring nontraditional paths to advance your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now include maintaining sustainable funding, navigating slow state approval processes, and managing insurance and procurement constraints—particularly in non-emergency medical transportation. There are also ongoing gender and age dynamics in leadership that can impact credibility and advancement.
At the same time, there are strong opportunities to develop diversified, revenue-generating strategies, form strategic partnerships with hospitals and healthcare providers, and pursue targeted funding sources such as DOT 5310 grants. Building strong nonprofit infrastructure allows organizations to address unmet community needs while creating long-term stability and impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are loyalty, integrity, and a deep appreciation for the people I work with. I believe in serving the community with purpose, valuing and supporting employees, and trusting my instincts when making decisions that impact others.