Board of Directors
Dai Shi is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), international expansion, initial public offerings (IPO), turnarounds, and addressing complex HR, sales, and operational challenges. She is dedicated to driving growth while ensuring sustainable profit margins. Dai views the financial services industry as the first responder to economic health, carrying an extraordinary responsibility to society.
As the Regional CFO of AXA Asia from 2011 to 2015, Dai successfully managed numerous M&A transactions, including the notable 2013 AXA-Tian Ping acquisition, a €500 million deal. This transaction and other joint ventures propelled AXA’s international expansion in Asia, achieving double-digit top-line revenue and earnings growth.
Dai played a key role in preparing Equitable (formerly AXA US) for its IPO in May 2018. Currently, as the CFO of Mission Square Retirement, she leverages her financial expertise and strategic insight to drive sustainable success and growth. Her leadership has revitalized organizations in turnaround situations, implementing effective strategies to restore profitability and growth. From 2020 to 2023, Dai led the business to profitability, generating cumulative operating earnings of $136 million and positive cash flows.
Renowned for her strong communication skills and collaborative approach, Dai serves on two boards: Mission Square Foundation and the Illinois State Society. She chairs the Finance Committee of the Center of Public Administration and Services and previously chaired The Well NYC’s finance and compensation committees, a wellness-focused organization based in New York City.
Dai holds an MBA from the University of Illinois and has earned certificates from Columbia University and the University of Geneva. In June 2024, she enrolled in Wharton’s Global C-Suite Program, further enhancing her expertise and commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Born in Shanghai, Dai has lived in Chicago, New York, Paris, Hong Kong, and Washington, DC. She has traveled to eighty-three countries for business and pleasure, gaining a deep understanding of both developed and emerging markets. Dai’s unique perspective on business challenges is complemented by her board certification, underscoring her expertise in corporate governance.
Residing in Washington, DC, Dai is passionate about giving back to the community.
