Women in Wealth Awards 2017

www.wealthandfinance-news.com 12 Wealth & Finance International - September 2017 women to be given more power and be recognized for their success in a variety of sectors. “Moving forward, my goal is to encourage women to take a more empowered role in finance. My role at Sensiba San Filippo grants me the freedom and opportunity to spread that message and help individuals that champion and advocate for women’s financial independence and women owned businesses.” Contact: Jennifer Cantero Contact Email: [email protected] Address: 5960 Inglewood Dr #201, Pleasanton, CA 94588, USA Phone: 001 925 271 8700 x6217 Website: www.ssfllp.com SSF serves small to medium size, family owned, or privately held businesses in Northern California with a predominate marketing focus on the highly competitive San Francisco and Silicon Valley Area. Jennifer talks us through her past experiences, telling us how she uses her experience when making decisions in her current role. “During my six years with SSF, I have assisted with five acquisitions and the addition of two new offices, both of which have played an integral role in the firm being named the 18th fastest growing accounting firm in the US in 2016. The firm has doubled its revenue and headcount in the last four years, widened its presence in the accounting world, and has grown to be nationally recognized as innovators in the industry. “SSF is my first foray into professional services. I have previously worked in an array of industries including: manufacturing, technology, fashion, education and non-profit. Starting my career as a graphic artist, my skills quickly expanded and adapted my general marketing skills to survive in a volatile market. I am proud of how far I have come in my career, starting as a graphic designer back when print was still king and surviving the economic downturn by being able to transition, grow and stay relevant in the new digital age.” Drawing on her own success, Jennifer tells us about how she mentors women who are looking to make it to the top of the industry. Regarding what advice she offers through her role as mentor, Jennifer provides four pieces of advice that she believes women should keep in mind for their career and life in general. “Essentially, anyone, not just women, should never stop learning. If people stop learning, people stop growing as a person and as a professional. Women should become a lifelong student and never be afraid of change and adaptation. Be confident and asserting themselves, women need to get into the conversation and many women have a tendency to sit on the sideline or away from the table. Women have a voice and need to participate in the issues and the meetings that are going on around them. Nobody can influence change and sway things their way unless they are actively involved. “Additionally, women should ask for what they want. Otherwise, they will never get what they want if they do not ask for it, whether it is the way food is prepared at a restaurant or a raise at work. Men are not afraid to ask, and women should not be either. People should recognize their desires and always embrace their voice. No one else on this planet will advocate for a person’s needs or wants more than that that person themselves will. Dream of where you want to be, set a plan, and then make it happen. Do not wait for others, charge ahead yourself.” Referring to her own success, Jennifer explains how she has developed her reputation over time, working hard and continuing to mentor other women. The finance industry has opened many avenues for Jennifer and she will continue to look for more in order to help women succeed within the industry, “Throughout my career, I have worked hard to develop my reputation as a sharp, strategic marketer and mentor. I believe that mentoring other women is extremely important, particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields like finance and accounting. Working in the finance world has opened my eyes to how far women have come and how much further we need to go. While there are definitely more women active in accounting and finance than in the past, that financial knowledge and empowerment is still far behind for the average woman.” Ultimately, Jennifer is keen to see more women in more powerful roles within the finance sector. Utilizing her role at SSF, Jennifer is able to push for Sensiba San Filippo LLP (SSF) is a full-service accounting firm providing tax, assurance and consulting services. Jennifer Cantero currently serves as the head of marketing for the regional accounting firm. Jennifer speaks to us about her own achievements and discusses the company’s success. Most Instrumental Woman in Accountancy Business Development - USA WFB17013