This year we launched Voices of Hiya, a new monthly blog series where we spotlight one outstanding Hiyan in an effort to share more about our team and what it’s like to work at Hiya. Every aspect of our employees, both inside and outside of work, makes our team special.
This month we’re featuring Jennifer Lawrence, Senior Director of Finance, Controller. Jennifer is based at Hiya’s U.S. headquarters in Seattle, Washington. Read on to discover what her job entails and what makes her an important part of our community.
How did you end up at Hiya?
I was recruited! A Hiya recruiter reached out via LinkedIn. I wasn’t looking to leave my previous role, but I was interested in Hiya’s potential.
What does your job entail?
As Sr. Director of Finance, Controller, I oversee and ensure that our financials are accurate. I have a really great team who are all passionate about finding efficiencies and documenting our processes so that we can have a great month-end close each period.
Why were you interested in working at Hiya?
I don’t pick up my phone unless I know who’s calling. Branded calls ensure that I pick up when I need to. I hate random calls and am so happy when they are marked as spam. I value what our product does for me.
How has working at Hiya helped you grow?
Our executive team is really supportive of my personal growth. I’ve been very outspoken about what I want to do and how I see my career path over the next 5 years. Our CFO actively takes steps to make sure that I’m getting unique experiences to help me grow in my current role and in my next role with Hiya.
What does happiness mean to you?
Being a mom to my 3-year-old overfills my happiness cup.
What is your favorite home cooked meal?
Chicken Parmesan. I don’t actually cook much, but this is the one “fancy” meal that I make on my own.
What are the qualities of a perfect teammate?
I find that I work best with teammates who are open and honest with what they want to accomplish and are willing to pitch in when life gets crazy.
Where is home for you?
Currently Seattle, but soon to be Gig Harbor, Washington. I spent some time in Los Angeles and I am originally from San Francisco.
If you had to trade lives with a living celebrity who would it be?
Sarah Michelle Gellar. She’s Buffy! I admire her “mom-first” work ethic and try to follow her style.
What was your most memorable day off work?
My boyfriend at the time (now husband) convinced me to take a day off work and we drove from San Francisco down to Santa Cruz and spent the weekend on the beach in Capitola. He proposed on the same beach 6 years later.
What’s the next place you want to visit?
We’re trying to plan a trip to Sweden next year for Eurovision 2024.
What motivates you to do your best every day?
I want to be a good role model for other women in tech and finance.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Ask for what you want.
Stay tuned for next month’s Voices of Hiya, where we highlight another team member that makes up our wonderful organization.
If you are interested in adding your voice to the Hiya team, check out our careers page to explore open opportunities.
