Karen Burkes

Karen Burkes has a diverse and extensive work experience history. Karen started their career as an MBA candidate at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business in 2007. Karen then worked as a consultant for Vibrant Ltd., an Israeli medical device start-up company, assessing opportunities for entry into the U.S. gastrointestinal therapy market.

Afterward, Burkes served as an MBA Finance Intern at Sears Holdings Corporation, analyzing financial data for the company's combined holiday season and developing key metrics templates for the following year.

Karen also worked as a Nonprofit Board Fellow for the Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation, where they assisted in writing financial policies and created an alumni association.

In 2009, Burkes joined Compass DC and Compass Pro Bono, volunteering as a consultant and project leader for various strategic planning initiatives.

From 2010 to 2018, they held multiple roles at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, including Senior Advisor and Director positions in various departments. Karen'sresponsibilities included developing strategies, leading projects, and providing advisory support to senior executives.

During their time at the NC Department of Health and Human Services, starting in 2018, Burkes held positions such as Deputy Director and COO for the Division of Mental Health and Director for the Division of State Operated Healthcare Facilities. Karen also served as the PPE Lead for the NC COVID-19 Response.

In addition to their professional roles, Burkes has worked as a Yoga Instructor for their own company, Karen Burkes Yoga, since 2017.

Karen Burkes has an MBA in Corporate Strategy and Finance from the University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business, obtained between 2007 and 2009. Karen also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Maryland, earned from 1998 to 2003. Additionally, they attended Seton Keough High School from 1994 to 1998. Karen Burkes has obtained additional certifications such as RYT®200 from the Yoga Alliance in 2017 and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification in 2011.