On the first official day of Fall, our ever-so-busy, feisty and outspoken Senior Financial and Brokerage Accountant, Debbie Register, finally had some free time to sit down with us. We are proud to say that Debbie has been part of the Ackerman & Co. team for more than 11 years, and we look forward to many more.
Be sure to check out her story below and join us in congratulating her on her recent promotion!
A. What brought you to Ackerman & Co. and how long have you been here?
My former employer, where I was in charge of the property management bookkeeping for 16 years, decided to semi-retire. As he downsized, the property management clients were referred to Ackerman. I saw an opportunity to interview with Ackerman and was hired on the spot; I have been here for more than 11 years.
B. Can you tell us a little about what you do at Ackerman & Co.?
My responsibilities allow me to wear several hats. My time is divided between Brokerage Accounting and Financial Accounting for the properties we manage. I could elaborate but I wouldn’t want anyone to start falling asleep while reading this. Let’s just say I stay busy!
C. Was this always your career goal?
I never really planned on being in accounting. When I was 13, I started taking inventory at a hardware store. I worked there until I turned 21, during which time I was promoted several times and ultimately to the corporate accounting office.
D. What is the most rewarding part of your current job?
Having someone tell me that I helped them understand something just makes me feel good inside and out.
E. What keeps you motivated?
I love what I do and really enjoy doing it.
F. What is the most exciting thing about commercial real estate to you?
No two days are ever alike and I continuously get to meet some really amazing people.
G. What do you feel like makes Ackerman & Co. such a great organization?
The people that make up Ackerman – from the president to the administration – is what makes our organization great!
H. What advice do you have for someone trying to break into your field?
Really think hard about what you really want in life. Also know there are a lot of deadlines and hard work that must be done to continue to be the best.
And now we’re about to get personal!
I. What about some of your hobbies?
I love baking, reading, making jewelry, painting on glass and sewing. However, my newest and favorite thing to do is spend time with my 15-month-old granddaughter Skylar. She is the new love of my life and I try to spend time with her as much as humanly possible.
J. Do you have a favorite childhood memory?
Getting up early on Sundays and going to Cherokee Mountains for the day. We would enjoys picnics, family time and the beautiful outdoors.
K. What’s something that surprises people about you?
While in school I was very, very shy. So much that I would read books in between classes and while I walked to avoid speaking with anyone.
L. Any guilty pleasures you wanna share?
Shopping for a great deal…and knowing I have coupons to make the deal even better.
M. What’s on your desk right now?
A large glass of homemade sweet tea.
N. What’s one thing on your bucket list that you can share with us?
To travel outside of the U.S. I have always wanted to visit Australia, Spain, France and Italy.