Dai Shi

Chief Financial Officer

Mission Square

Dai Shi is a seasoned executive with expertise in M&A, international expansion, IPOs, turnarounds, and complex financial and operational leadership. She emphasizes growth while maintaining sustainable profit margins and views the financial services industry as critical to economic health.

As Regional CFO for AXA Asia (2011–2015), Dai led the 2013 AXA-Tian Ping €500 million acquisition, managing target identification, due diligence, valuation, negotiation, and governance design. This and other joint ventures fueled AXA’s expansion, delivering double-digit growth. She was also a core member preparing Equitable (former AXA US) for its 2018 IPO, handling roadshow materials, regulatory filings, and investor communications.

Currently CFO of a DC-based investment advisory firm, Dai revitalized the business, achieving $136 million cumulative operating earnings and positive cash flow from 2020 to 2023. She improves performance through sales incentives aligned with revenue and optimized operational efficiency.

Dai serves on boards including Washington Ballet, Mission Square Foundation, and Illinois State Society, chairing the Finance Committee at the Center of Public Administration and Services. She holds an MBA from the University of Illinois and certificates from Columbia, University of Geneva, and Wharton’s Global C-Suite Program (2025). Born in Shanghai, Dai has lived across major global cities and traveled extensively, offering a broad perspective on business and governance.