1. What do you think is the biggest challenge as an accounting entrepreneur for your organization today and why? Is it possibly due from an unpredictable economy? Competition? Cost of providing healthcare coverage for employees?Being able to project an accurate mix and take into account changes profit and services for my business. These items are key to building our budget. All the various components that make up revenue and expenses are derived from our contribution.
2. Would you have answered this question differently, say, five years ago? Why or why not?No, no matter what type of business you look at, the budget is always driven by only a few key factors and everything else is built off of those items.
3. What needs to be done in order to make this less of a challenge in the future? Are you optimistic that the future looks bright?Healthcare is constantly changing with new laws and regulations and I don't think that will stop anytime soon. It is a challenge to keep up with all the changes but it also makes this an interesting field of work to be in.
4. What advice would you give someone just entering a career in accounting or finance?Take the time to learn about the line of business you're in. The finance and accounting principles you learn in school are applicable in any setting but those numbers are meaningless unless you are able to see the big picture.
5. In your opinion, what impact has Obamacare legislation had on your position or on your organization?Obamacare has had a huge impact on Aetna. With all the new legislation, the company has had to revise employee benefits as well as expand the government services line of business.
6. What are some of your strengths and weaknesses as finance professional?My strengths are patience and being able to think analytically. As a finance professional in the healthcare industry, I'm usually the go-to person for anything related to numbers which can get frustrating. I would say my biggest weakness is advanced accounting because it's very boring to me.
7. Describe a tough financial analysis problem you have faced recently? How did you remain motivated through such issues? I had to build a pro-forma for one of our lines of business that is not doing well. It was challenging trying to figure out the best approach to turn this LOB profitable. Working with our medical management team and being able to understand the needs and risks involved was a big help.