Karen Neal
Director of Accounting

A California native, Karen Neal brings over two decades of diverse accounting, tax, and financial leadership experience to Impact Family Office. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Quantitative Economics from the University of California, San Diego, where she developed a passion for applying financial expertise to strengthen mission-driven organizations and create lasting community impact. 

Before joining Impact Family Office, Karen served in progressive leadership roles across nonprofit organizations, public accounting firms, and private advisory practices. Her career includes serving as Controller and Director of Finance for prominent Santa Barbara County nonprofits, where she oversaw multi-million-dollar budgets, implemented robust accounting systems, and ensured strong internal controls. She has also provided tax planning, compliance, and consulting services to high-net-worth individuals, trusts, and foundations, translating complex financial data into clear, actionable insights. 

At Impact Family Office, Karen leads the firm’s accounting function for families, trusts, and foundations, bringing expertise in executive collaboration, financial reporting, data analysis, regulatory and legal compliance, and tax strategy. Her approach blends technical precision with a deep understanding of client values, helping families steward their resources effectively across generations. 

Outside of work, Karen embraces the active lifestyle and natural beauty of the Central Coast. She enjoys golfing, hiking, running, attending concerts, and exploring local wineries with her spirited mini Goldendoodle, Lizzie.