Get to Know Your CFO: Joan Bracci
/Get to know the County’s new leadership team in a series of stories highlighting some professional and personal highlights. It started with Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton.
Right now, it’s Joan Bracci’s turn. She’s the County’s new Chief Financial Officer. She has served in many roles including the Finance and General Government Group interim Deputy Chief Administrative Officer and as its Chief Operations Officer.
In the Clifton Strengths Assessment, what are your signature themes?
Learner, Achiever, Relator, Individualization and Intellection.
What traits do you look for in a co-worker?
I feel lucky to be a part of the County team, because I’m surrounded by colleagues who are driven to serve, ready to roll up their sleeves, work hard until the job is done, and to have fun and take care of each other while doing the job.
Advice to someone who wants to move ahead in their career.
Have fun and follow your heart. Make yourself proud.
What do you want people to know about you?
I’m here to help – if you’re carrying a heavy load, it would be my honor to carry it with you.
Where did you grow up?
All over, in chronological order until I started my undergrad studies: Egbe, Nigeria; South Pasadena, California; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Taichung, Taiwan.
Introvert or extrovert and describe why?
Introvert – I appreciate having space with my thoughts and time to myself, so when I am with others, I can be present with them.
Favorite activity or hobby?
Climbing in alpine environments – I feel deeply alive when everything around is just granite and sky.
Favorite way to spend the weekend?
Rock climbing with my husband or long-time climbing partners – I love being in a vertical space, connected to another person with a rope, relying on each other.
Favorite place to eat?
With family and friends! Food tastes better when you’re eating in great company.
How do you relieve stress?
I like things that involve counting – crochet (counting stitches), playing the banjo (counting beats), ashtanga yoga (counting breaths).
Do you have a particular philosophy? Motto? Saying that inspires you/that you live by?
In the introduction to a book about exploring the Himalaya, Sir Francis Younghusband wrote: “But to those who have struggled with them, the mountains reveal beauties they will not disclose to those who make no effort. That is the reward the mountains give ... And naturally the mountains reserve their choice gifts for those who stand upon their summits. The climber’s vision is then no longer confined and enclosed … He sees in every direction.”
I don’t think the mountains really care about climbers or bestow gifts. But this quote profoundly resonates with me – in the mountains and in life, with hard work, courageous choices and perseverance, we can gain the truest perspective and to see how much further the boundaries of possibility are than what we thought.
Also read:
Get to Know Your DCAO: Brian Albright, FG3
Get to Know Your DCAO: Kim Giardina, HHSA
Get to Know Your DCAO: Dahvia Lynch, LUEG