By Ocient Staff
Ocient has a world-class team to deliver customer-centric solutions, but the successful execution of these solutions would not be possible without proper financial management of the company. As the familiar adage says—you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Lauren Krueger, Staff Accountant, plays a huge role in taking care of the financial health of the company so we can continue to tackle the toughest hyperscale data challenges. She assists the team in bookkeeping, payroll preparation, development of accounting policies, financial statement preparation, budgeting, financial forecasting, equity administration, and investor reporting.
Let’s learn more about Lauren’s background and see how she fits into her role here at Ocient in this month’s employee spotlight.
Where are you based and how do you take advantage of our remote first policy?
I’m based in Chicago, and I take advantage of our remote first policy in a variety of ways. Without a daily commute, I was able to utilize more time in the mornings and evenings to study for and pass the CPA exams. Becoming a licensed CPA was a goal of mine since the beginning of my career, and the flexibility of a remote environment definitely contributed to my achievement. Additionally, working in a remote position allows me to visit friends and family who live outside of Chicago more often.
How long have you been with Ocient?
I’ve been with Ocient for a little over two years.
What are some things you like to do in your free time?
My perfect day off would include a walk along the water with my dog, cooking a new recipe at home, and then seeing some live music at one of the many iconic venues Chicago has to offer.
What’s the next place you’d like to check off your travel bucket list?
I would love to go to Spain. I minored in Spanish in college but, admittedly, I am no longer fluent. It’s always been a dream of mine to live there for a few months to get reacquainted with the language.
What do you find unique about working at Ocient?
Ocient is an incredibly collaborative company. We have a Slack channel dedicated to shouting out a job well done, and I am consistently impressed by the way the company’s talent works together to solve problems and improve processes. From entry level to executive positions, each employee has a hand in Ocient’s success.
Describe your growth journey while at Ocient.
I was very early in my career when I started with the company, and everyone is so intelligent – I was intimidated. I was scared to make mistakes, but through my time at Ocient where I am surrounded by supportive leadership, I realized that’s how you learn and grow into a better professional.
What career advice would you give to your younger self?
Comparing your career path to someone else’s doesn’t get you any closer to your goals. When you’re feeling frustrated or discouraged, take a moment to acknowledge how far you’ve come, and then put in the necessary work to get you on your way.
Would you like to give an employee shoutout to someone who has inspired you or helped you out along the way?
Laura Troutman is such a strong leader. I’m lucky to work closely with someone so knowledgeable, patient and adaptable. Things are always changing in a company’s early years, and the way Laura approaches those changes with poise and skill is inspiring.
Interested in joining the team?
Ocient is a remote-first company full of efficiently effective & craft driven contributors. We are passionate about delivering the very best in hyperscale data solutions to our customers. See what open positions we have on our Job Postings page or explore our Partnership Opportunities.