Jennifer Mason
CFO
Revman International Inc & Kaltex America

Introduce yourself to our audience. Tell us who you are and what you are currently focused on.
I grew up in a small town in West Virginia the youngest of 3 girls. My parents insisted that we “go away” to college so I attended Clemson University where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering. I quickly determined that wasn’t the career path for me, so I got an entry-level office job and went back to school to take some business classes. That office job was at Revman International, Inc. where I advanced up the ladder in the accounting department. In 2003, Revman was purchased by the Kaltex group at which time I was the Financial Reporting Manager. It was then that I met the person that would mentor and guide me along my career path. That person was Hebe Schecter. We have now worked together for over 15 years. I am currently the CFO of Kaltex America and Revman International and have held that position for 2.5 years. 

What advice would you offer future leading ladies wishing to break into your industry?

• Stay connected. It’s important to get out there and see what is going on in the industry. Join professional organizations and subscribe to some publications to help.
• Learn how to take constructive criticism and make the improvements.
• Be curious, get involved with company initiatives and projects when you can. 
• Keep learning.

Is work-life balance a problem for you? What is one no-fail tactic you use to create balance?
I have always been somewhat of a workaholic so at times the work-life balance has been hard for me. Especially now in this age where technology has made us always available. So, when I’m home or on vacation I put down my phone. I set a schedule for when I am going to check in and I do my best to keep to it.

What is one piece of advice you’d offer working moms?
It’s okay to take some time for yourself. Don’t feel guilty.