Rhonda is known for her strategic fiscal acumen which includes leading teams in financial planning, large complex budget management, and investment portfolio management for both public and private sectors. Respected as a credible voice in decision making, strategic planning and establishing governance boundaries, Rhonda earns a seat at the table wherever she serves. She was highlighted by the Texas Executive Women as a 2019 Women on the Move recipient as well as by the Houston Business Journal as one of Houston’s top Women Business Leaders.
Rhonda is the CFO/ Deputy Director for the Houston Police Department which is the 5th largest police department in the United States and employs more than 6,300 classified and civilian employees. Rhonda’s responsibilities consist of oversight of HPD’s $930M+ general fund budget, procurement and contract administration, grant management, and capital improvement budget. She also oversees all city council liaison activity and is part of the Executive Command Staff.
Rhonda has spent several years in the pension and investment sector. She previously served as the Executive Director of the Houston Municipal Pension System (HMEPS) where she provided leadership for the largest member municipal pension system in the state of Texas with a $2.5 billion investment portfolio. She also served as Deputy Director/CFO for the Houston Firefighters Relief and Retirement Fund. Before returning to the public sector, Rhonda lent her capital fundraising acumen to Austin-based high growth Private Family Office in their quest to grow an additional $1 billion of capital. She previously served as CFO for large nonprofit organizations including the American Red Cross and the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. Rhonda started her career as an auditor for both Deloitte (formerly Touché Ross) and Occidental Petroleum.
Rhonda has served in volunteer roles with numerous professional and non-profit organization. Currently, Rhonda serves as a Trustee and Board Secretary for the HMEPS. She is also an American Leadership Forum (ALF) Senior Fellow and Past Board Member; general member of Greater Houston Chamber of Commerce, and Steering Committee Member for the Greater Houston Partnership – Executive Women Partnership group. She has also served on the Houston Urban League, San Jacinto Girls Scouts and YWCA boards.
Rhonda holds an M.B.A. in Finance and Management from the University of Houston and a B.S. degree in Accounting from The Ohio State University. Rhonda is a graduate of the Rice University Certified Financial Planner Certification Education Program.
Rhonda is married to David Smith and together they are the proud parents of three adult children: Simone, Christopher and Jonathan.
