Susan Michelle Diego, CPA, MBA
Susan Michelle (Joyner) Diego, CPA, MBA, is a strategic and process-oriented finance executive specializing in nonprofit leadership. Currently serving as Comptroller at Compass Connections, she brings over 12 years of experience in finance, accounting, and technology to mission-driven organizations. Known for her collaborative leadership style and strong executive presence, Susan excels at translating complex financial concepts into actionable strategies, balancing compliance, efficiency, and scalability to support organizational goals.
Susan began her career in banking, holding key roles at USAA, TransPecos Banks, SSB, and Texas Partners Bank, where she advanced into leadership positions including Director of Finance and Vice President of Accounting & Systems Management. Throughout her career, she has led system implementations, process improvements, and accounting technology initiatives that reduced reconciliation exceptions, shortened close cycles, and streamlined operations—all while mentoring teams and fostering a high-performance culture. Her transition to the nonprofit sector reflects her commitment to leveraging her financial expertise to make a tangible impact in the community, particularly in service to veterans.
Susan holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Accounting from University of Phoenix and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, and she is a Certified Public Accountant in Texas. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and supporting veteran-focused initiatives. Guided by values of perseverance, family, self-belief, and service, Susan combines financial expertise with purpose-driven stewardship to help organizations achieve sustainable impact.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Account Reconciliations Certification
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (ICBB)
• Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi - MBA
• AICPA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my children. Their needs have been my greatest motivation, driving me to persevere through challenges, complete my degrees while raising young children, and work tirelessly to provide for them while setting a strong example.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is not to let others define who you are or what your career can be. Believe in yourself, clarify what you want to pursue, and take deliberate action to make it happen.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the growth of automation and advanced accounting technology. At the same time, a key challenge—and opportunity—is ensuring that accounting and finance are integrated into process and system design from the outset, rather than being added as an afterthought.
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 family, perseverance, self-belief, empathy and compassion, and a commitment to service—particularly in supporting veterans.