Title: CFO
Company: ROBRADY, Inc.
Years of FEI membership: New member
Work email: [email protected]
Work phone number: (941) 359-6656
Tell us a little bit about your career, educational/professional background and how you got to where you are today.
My educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in art history from New College of Florida and a master’s degree in accounting and financial management from Keller Graduate School of Business Management. I have also completed specialized programs in intellectual property law and venture financing. I have held finance positions in a range of industries, from retail to service and construction.
How did you discover your passion for finance?
After graduating from New College and debating whether to pursue an advanced degree in art history (my undergrad major), I took a job as an office manager for a design company. I became fascinated by the mechanics of business and how seemingly basic decisions could have major impacts on the company health. I got more involved in the financial side of the business and eventually became the company's controller. I decided then that instead of pursuing a more academic path, I would get my master's in financial management and further my knowledge of the financial field.
What do you love most about working as a financial executive?
I view my role as CFO not only as a steward of the company's financial health but also of our team of employees. My mission in all decisions always comes back to keeping our team safe and thriving. Whether through safeguarding payroll, structuring bonuses, or facilitating educational and professional growth possibilities, our ROBRADY family is always my first priority. We have an amazing team of talented individuals, and I am proud and grateful to be an essential part of keeping us all moving forward.
What upcoming projects are you excited about?
ROBRADY is continuing to grow, and we are expanding our manufacturing capabilities. There are some exciting opportunities that we are pursuing. I am also very excited about my involvement with Sarasota Growth Ventures, a newly launched micro venture capital fund focusing on product-based early-stage companies.
What is one piece of information you wish someone had told you when you first started your finance career?
Don’t be afraid to take on a challenge. I think in the financial world, it is easy to get bogged down in worry about not having enough knowledge or experience to take on a project or career path. I’ve found that with determination and the willingness to put in the hours, you can overcome those hurdles and succeed. One of my favorite quotes is by Joseph Campbell – “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure that you seek.”