LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
W. Val Oveson
CEO | Oveson Consulting LLC
Current board: University of Utah Hospital & Clinics Community
Prior boards: American Express National Bank, NACD Utah, Salt Lake City Police Foundation, Utah Information Technology Association, The Museum of Utah Art and History, Utah Education Network, Utah Health Information Network, Salt Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Salt Lake
From his early days as state auditor to his current status as one of Utah’s most respected board leaders, Val Oveson’s career exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have across both public and private sectors.
After earning an accounting degree from Brigham Young University, Val was elected state auditor at an age he describes as “way too young” (he was, in fact, the third-youngest state auditor in Utah history). He later made history again as Utah’s first lieutenant governor to run in tandem with the governor following a constitutional change, serving eight years alongside Gov. Norman Bangerter.
“I think my time as state auditor and lieutenant governor … really shaped my view of leading and motivating people to do their best and perform on a strategy that leads to the success of the organization,” Val reflects.
His remarkable career path then took him from roles in state offices to KPMG, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, PwC, and the American Express National Bank board of directors. During his 16 years with the American Express National Bank came his most challenging board experience in the aftermath of the 2008-2009 financial crisis, during which time he chaired the bank’s compliance committee.
“It was very challenging, very time-consuming,” he recalls. “I’m very proud of the fact that we got through it and we got through it very well. We were a stronger bank afterward because of the things we did in response to the crisis. … I look back on it as a real highlight of my career, even though it was not pleasant at the time.”
Val’s governmental and private sector assignments have been critical to the quality of his board service, allowing him to better understand regulatory environments. He hopes business schools and professional organizations will include more education about boards so young people are prepared to make the crucial decisions that will shape Utah’s future.
