Julianne Chandler, a dynamic and accomplished Chief Financial Officer at Saussy Burbank, has significantly impacted the financial sector since 2013. Born into a military family, her resilience and adaptability were shaped early on. Julianne’s academic achievements include a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Campbell University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix, underlining her commitment to continuous learning. Her career highlights include pivotal roles in public accounting and progressive leadership positions in the energy sector. With a passion for travel, botany, and volunteering, Julianne’s philosophy intertwines personal happiness with professional success, embodying a holistic approach to life and work.

Q&A with Julianne Chandler, Chief Financial Officer at Saussy Burbank

Julianne, you’ve had an impressive journey in your career. Can you tell us about your current role at Saussy Burbank?

Julianne Chandler: Absolutely. I joined Saussy Burbank as a Controller in August 2013. Over the years, I’ve grown within the company, moving from VP of Finance to my current role as Chief Financial Officer since January 2023. I oversee all accounting areas, manage IT and HR functions, and am passionate about driving the company’s financial success.

Your educational background is quite diverse. Could you share a bit about that?

Julianne Chandler: Sure! I graduated with honors from Evanston Township High School in 1994 and then pursued my Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Campbell University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2003. I also hold an MBA from the University of Phoenix’s Chicago Campus, which I completed in 2008, and a Business Contracts certification from Cornell University in 2021.

Growing up in a military family, how did that shape your life and career?

Julianne Chandler: Growing up as an “Air Force brat” and then marrying into the army meant frequent moves, living in various places like Michigan, California, Nebraska, Chicago, Louisiana, Germany, and North Carolina. This lifestyle taught me adaptability and resilience, which were crucial in my career, especially in the early days when I was balancing work and education while being part of a military family.

You’ve mentioned facing obstacles on your path to success. Can you elaborate on that?

Julianne Chandler: The main challenge was starting a career while frequently moving due to my family’s military background. Despite this, I remained committed to my education and career goals, finding opportunities that allowed for growth and learning.

How do you define success, and what drives you towards achieving your goals?

Julianne Chandler: To me, success is about achieving one’s goals and making your desired life a reality. It’s not just about climbing the ladder or titles. My daughter and my future are my biggest motivators. Providing a comfortable and stable life for her while working hard to realize my aspirations is what drives me.

You’ve achieved a lot professionally. How do you balance your personal and professional life?

Julianne Chandler: Balancing personal and professional success is crucial for overall happiness. I believe in the correlation between the two. Success isn’t just about career achievements; it’s also about being happy in your personal life.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring professionals in the field of finance and accounting?

Julianne Chandler: Stay driven and determined, but also remain humble and grounded. A solid work ethic is essential, as is leading by example. It’s important to be open to new ideas and continually learn and grow, both personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience and Adaptability Shaped by Military Background: Julianne Chandler’s upbringing in a military family and later as a military spouse instilled key values of resilience and adaptability, which played a crucial role in her professional growth. Her experience of frequently relocating and adapting to new environments contributed significantly to her ability to handle challenges in her career, especially in the early stages.
• Importance of Transparency and Integrity: A defining moment in Julianne’s career was her handling of the fraud incident with a prior employer. Her approach to this challenge underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in the finance sector. Her honesty and openness during the SEC investigation not only helped her navigate this difficult situation but also facilitated her continued advancement at Saussy Burbank.
• Balanced Approach to Success: Julianne defines success as a balance between professional achievements and personal happiness. She emphasizes that success is not solely about career progression or titles but also about achieving personal goals and maintaining happiness in life. Her focus on balancing her professional responsibilities with her personal interests and family life offers a valuable perspective on managing a successful career alongside a fulfilling personal life.