Get to Know Us: Q&A with Duane Landon
We have a small but mighty team here at Seattle Parks Foundation, with dedicated and knowledgeable staff ready to help our fiscal partners achieve their goals.
Our Director of Finance, Duane Landon (he/him) is responsible for the oversight of Seattle Parks Foundation’s finances and works closely with the Partner Team to support our partners in achieving their project objectives. He has worked and served in the nonprofit sector for 20 years in financial and leadership roles. Prior to that he spent 10 years as a manager in the business sector. Duane is a Seattle native that loves the outdoors any time of the year and still enjoys the playground even though his “kids” are grown-up.
You’re one of our newest staff members, having joined Seattle Parks Foundation less than one year ago! What’s one of the most interesting things you’ve learned about our organization so far?
I knew there were a lot of projects happening, but I was impressed with the broad range of types of projects.
Why did the opportunity to work for Seattle Parks Foundation pique your interest?
Open spaces and parks are an important part of our neighborhoods, communities, and culture. I was drawn to the interesting intersection of these spaces and equity.
Our partners must often set and manage budgets for their volunteer-led projects. What do you think is the most challenging part of creating a budget, and do you have any advice when it comes to successful financial planning?
LOL, I have a hoodie that basically reads an accountant is a magician and that’s sometimes how I feel when it comes to budgeting when there is little information to go by. So, I would say it’s tough when there is little to no description of the activity. For successful financial planning I recommend starting with what the objectives are and then asking yourself what it will take to achieve those objectives operationally. Lastly, estimate the dollar cost for those operational activities.
With over 100 active fiscal partners, tracking our collective fiscal and financial activities must take a lot of energy! Do you have any favorite tools or tricks that you use to stay organized?
Boy, that’s always a challenge! I’m really looking forward to Salesforce helping with that. Cross-reference between a database and financial information makes life much easier. In the interim, OneNote is a great tool.
We’ve heard that you’re a fan of games and activities – from board games to escape rooms. Any favorites that you can share with us?
Oh Wow. That depends on the type of game I suppose. For Xbox I really enjoyed Read Dead Redemption 2; an open-world Old West game that took me forever to 100%. If we are talking about board games, a recent favorite is “Trekking the World”.
As spring continues and summer approaches, we’re all craving more time outside. Would you share a favorite trail or camping spot with us?
That’s one of my best kept secrets! Seriously though, living so close to Snoqualmie Pass, there are some spots I frequent but they are overcrowded with hikers. When I can, I’ll find a trail off of Highway 2. If I’m looking for a short hike close to home, I like the “Bear and Cougar” trail, so called because these animals are frequently seen there.
Thank you, Duane, for sharing more about yourself with us!