While Dakota brings deep technical expertise in financial reporting, forecasting, budgeting, internal controls, business process improvement, software implementation, executive communications, and strategic planning, his greatest strength is helping business leaders make better decisions. He approaches every engagement with a calm, thoughtful demeanor, taking time to understand the broader business context before translating complex financial challenges into clear, practical recommendations. Known for his integrity, sound judgment, and steady leadership, Dakota has earned the trust of business owners, lenders, investors, attorneys, and executive teams by delivering solutions that are both financially disciplined and operationally effective.

Before co-founding Resolute Strategic Finance, Dakota served as Chief Financial Officer of Scenic Land Company, where he provided executive leadership across finance, accounting, operations, strategic initiatives, investor reporting, and bond compliance for the development and operation of McLemore Resort. He played a pivotal role in establishing the financial infrastructure and operational processes supporting the opening of Cloudland at McLemore Resort, a Hilton Curio Collection hotel and conference center, as well as The Keep, an award-winning 18-hole championship golf course.

Earlier in his career, Dakota served as Chief Financial Officer for multiple Chattanooga-based companies across the logistics and transportation sector. His experience spans domestic freight brokerage, international freight forwarding, and asset-based transportation operations, supporting organizations with annual revenues ranging from $35 million to $100 million. Throughout these roles, he led financial strategy, operational improvement initiatives, lender and investor relationships, and scalable financial reporting systems that enabled sustainable growth and informed executive decision-making.

Within the firm, Dakota serves as the financial strategist and analytical architect, helping ensure every recommendation is supported by sound financial reasoning, measurable outcomes, and long-term sustainability. His combination of technical expertise, humility, discernment, and unwavering integrity makes him a trusted advisor to organizations navigating growth, operational change, or significant capital decisions.

Dakota earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of Tennessee and is a graduate of Protégé Chattanooga, a leadership and professional development program that equips emerging business leaders to make a meaningful impact in their organizations and communities.

Through Resolute Strategic Finance, he remains committed to lifelong learning and applying his experience to help business owners build stronger companies with confidence and clarity.

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