Would you give us a snapshot of your background? Hometown, any early influences, your current professional position and role?
Born and raised in Louisville. Currently in a challenging Controller role with a multi-billion dollar Travel Agency that is a conglomerate of several businesses across
the globe.
What motivated you to pursue a career in finance? Why did you decide to join FEI?
I started in finance mostly because I like numbers, and I like solving problems. Finance and Accounting have plenty of opportunity for both, and also allow for much interaction in business with talented individuals across many disciplines. I decided to join FEI when the last company I worked for (Insuramax) has a much higher percentage of their business in Kentucky. What I have come to appreciate is all of the local and national connections that can be had with FEI (in addition to attending terrific guest speaker events).
You are one of the leaders working to expand FEI’s reach to CFOs, treasurers, controllers and other financial executives in the Louisville community. Tell us why this effort is so important and what can FEI candidates expect to achieve as members?
Today's landscape for finance careers is changing rapidly with technology, AI, workforce competition, and other challenges. Leveraging influential contacts to learn from and connect with can help deal with these challenges. Members can expect to interact with a diverse group of talented individuals from many industries and a variety of corporate attributes.
Would you describe your greatest accomplishment and what it means to you?
Being a husband and father. Doing my part to provide for my family and hopefully instill generational personal growth is a big part of my "why" for working.
Everybody faces adversity sometime in their lives. How do you handle it?
I turn to my faith in Christ. I also try to look at every adversity as an opportunity to learn, improve, and understand "who your true friends are," so to speak.
What’s your favorite leisure activity or hobby? Perhaps a sports team?
Sports (University of Louisville) and dinners with friends.
What bit of personal or professional wisdom can you share with your FEI colleagues? Do you have a favorite saying or quote?
"Do the right thing even when no one is looking"
Doug Wickenheiser is a director on the FEI Louisville board and serves as secretary and membership chairman. He can be reached at Doug.Wickenheiser@Altour.com.