We are pleased to announce Rick Shounia, Chief Financial Officer, was named to the Crain’s Twenty in their 20’s Class of 2017.
Rick Shounia joined the Austin team in 2015 as our Chief Financial Officer. In his role as CFO Rick is responsible for leading strategic growth and day-to-day financial operations including controllership, treasury and financial planning and analysis. As the CFO, Rick focuses on leveraging new technologies to help Austin to meet objectives and deliver results for our clients. Rick is a true team player that is willing to help in whatever way possible to ensure the continued success of the Austin team, a trait that is hard to find in many leaders and is truly deserving of this achievement.
A Quick Interview with Rick
What is your favorite thing about working at Austin?
R: The people, easily. We have an amazing team that always comes together to accomplish great things. We have great admiration and respect for each other and we truly care about the best interest of our clients.
What has been your favorite Austin event so far?
R: I have really enjoyed all the Austin events; however, my favorite events are when we can help in our community. My two favorite service events are the shelter dinner at the South Oakland Shelter and volunteering with Angel’s Place to fix up one of their resident homes.
What is the best career advice you were ever given?
R: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and fail. Mistakes are opportunities to learn, grow and get better.
What is one thing you would like our clients to know about you?
R: Even though I’m not client-facing daily, I’m always putting our clients needs first and looking for new and better ways to serve them.
What is a day in the life of an award winner like?
R: It’s fun! The recognition and outreach have been overwhelming. I’m truly humbled and look forward to working hard and continuing to do great things at Austin.
What tips do you have for others that aspire to achieve career success?
R: Make friends. Get to know as many people as you can, because you can learn and grow from everyone that you meet. Also, gain perspectives from a variety of people with different backgrounds, the more perspectives you get the wiser you will become.
What motivates you?
R: Helping others attain their dreams. Working at Austin means I get to pursue helping others in many different ways, through the advising we provide for business owners and entrepreneurs, helping develop our internal Austin team, and through our local outreach in the community.
What is your favorite quote?
R: “Take risks and take naps” -Rick Shounia
To learn more about Rick, you can read his featured story on Crain’s Detroit and view all of the Twenty in their 20’s Class of 2017.
About Crain’s Detroit Business
For nearly three decades, Crain’s Detroit Business has served Southeast Michigan’s business influencers and decision makers with must-have news and information that can’t be found anywhere else.
