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2026 C-SUITE AWARDS HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | OCTOBER 19, 2026 B11 WINNER CATEGORY | C H I E F F I N A N C I A L O F F I C E R Michael Kleinschmitt EVP & Chief Financial Officer Dutch Point Credit Union Size of Organization: $30 million Employees: 76 full-time, 3 part-time Education: Master's degree, accounting, UConn M ichael Kleinschmitt is execu- tive vice president and chief financial officer of Dutch Point Credit Union, where he oversees finance, risk management, information technology and facilities. He also works on strategic growth and modernization initiatives. A certified public accountant, Klein- schmitt has more than 20 years of experience in financial services, including eight years auditing financial institu- tions for RSM and 12 years in executive leadership roles. What have been your biggest professional accomplishments over the past year? Over the past year, I have focused on positioning Dutch Point Credit Union for long-term growth and community impact. I helped lead the expansion of our branch network, enhancing accessibility and convenience for current and future members. I also worked closely with our leadership team to strengthen community engagement efforts, increasing the credit union's visibility and involvement in local events, partnerships and outreach initiatives. In addition, I supported key opera- tional and technology improvement projects designed to enhance efficiency, improve the member experience and create a stronger foundation for continued growth while maintaining sound financial and risk management practices. In what ways are you involved in the community? I am actively involved with local chambers of commerce and commu- nity organizations throughout Connecticut. I enjoy supporting events, partnerships and initiatives that strengthen local communities, promote financial well-being and advance the credit union philosophy of people helping people. WINNER CATEGORY | G O V E R N M E N T A G E N C Y C H I E F F I N A N C I A L O F F I C E R Hazim Taib Chief Financial Officer Connecticut Housing Finance Authority Size of Organization: Operating revenues of $360 million; operating budget of $48 million Employees: 140 Education: MBA, Indiana State University; Bachelor's degree, finance, Universiti Teknologi MARA H azim Taib is chief financial officer of the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, where he oversees financial strategy, organizationwide planning and performance. His work includes modernizing financial systems, developing staff and improving coordination across departments to support CHFA's operations and housing mission. What have been your biggest professional accomplishments over the past year? Over the past year, I strength- ened CHFA's financial position and advanced our mission by modern- izing key financial models, improving enterprise planning and enhancing capital strategies. A major milestone was issuing over $1.2 billion in bonds in 2025 to support single- family and multifamily lending, contributing to 3,788 homebuyers served and 1,168 affordable units financed. I also helped drive a 15% increase in total assets and a 25% increase in net position, reflecting disciplined stewardship and strong market execution. These efforts positioned CHFA to deliver sustainable, long-term impact for Connecticut residents. In what ways are you involved in the community? I stay actively involved in the community by supporting affordable housing initiatives, mentoring young professionals and collaborating with local partners to expand access to housing and support programs that strengthen Connecticut families.