Jeff Capuno is a mission-driven financial executive with over 17 years of progressive leadership experience across the U.S. Department of Defense, currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer and Comptroller of the U.S. Naval War College. Known for his calm authority, operational insight, and deep-rooted commitment to organizational transformation, Jeff leads with a focus on transparency, collaboration, and strategic alignment. His work spans continents and commands, demonstrating an exceptional capacity to steward public funds responsibly while advancing the long-term mission of national defense institutions.
Jeff’s career reflects a rare blend of technical proficiency and leadership versatility. Before assuming his current role in 2020, he served with distinction as Deputy CFO and Deputy Comptroller at Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central, where he oversaw complex financial operations in a multinational context. His time there also included a critical interim appointment as Deputy Director of Operations, further showcasing his agility in managing both fiscal and operational responsibilities. Earlier roles at the Defense Logistics Agency and Commander, Navy Installations Command HQ built the foundation for his expertise in budgeting, auditing, and systems accounting.
Throughout his federal service, Jeff has consistently led high-performing, cross-functional teams that drive results. Whether implementing internal audit frameworks, modernizing financial systems, or improving workforce alignment, he brings analytical rigor and people-centered leadership to every challenge. His ability to build cohesive teams across organizational levels has led to measurable improvements in efficiency and process transparency—hallmarks of his financial stewardship.
Jeff is also deeply committed to education and lifelong learning. A graduate of George Mason University with a Bachelor of Science in Economics, he later pursued executive education at Harvard Business School, completing the Program for Leadership Development (PLD), Harvard’s alternative to a traditional MBA. This dedication to continuous growth not only sharpens his strategic lens but also fuels his passion for mentoring emerging leaders and sharing knowledge within and beyond his teams.
Jeff holds multiple certifications, including Certified Defense Financial Manager and Department of Defense Financial Management Level III, reflecting his technical mastery and deep familiarity with federal fiscal policy. He has also contributed his expertise to private sector finance during an early career chapter at Truist (formerly SunTrust), further broadening his financial acumen.
A values-based leader who operates with integrity and clarity, Jeff Capuno is more than a CFO—he’s a catalyst for mission-aligned innovation. As he continues shaping the financial future of the Naval War College and mentoring the next generation of defense leaders, his impact resonates well beyond the balance sheet.
Character
Jeff Capuno leads with integrity, humility, and an unwavering sense of duty, consistently demonstrating a commitment to mission-driven service and the ethical stewardship of public resources. His dedication to building high-performing teams and promoting transparency reflects a deep-rooted belief in accountability and trust.
Knowledge
With over 17 years of experience in federal financial leadership and advanced training from Harvard Business School, Jeff brings deep expertise in defense financial management, systems accounting, and operational budgeting. His credentials and continuous learning mindset underscore a mastery of complex fiscal environments across both domestic and international defense operations.
Strategic
Jeff approaches every role with a forward-thinking perspective, aligning financial systems and organizational goals to advance mission success and institutional resilience. His ability to lead transformation across multi-layered commands demonstrates a strategic acumen rooted in data, structure, and long-term impact.
Communication
Jeff excels at fostering clarity and alignment through effective communication with stakeholders at all levels, translating complex financial data into actionable insights. He creates collaborative environments where teams thrive, guided by openness, mentorship, and a shared commitment to excellence.
