We’re delighted to introduce Kristen Rutkowski, who has joined Milestone as director of finance. After going to college here in New York, Kristen went west and had some exciting adventures before landing back home and joining our team. We asked her a few questions about her education, career, and life. Read more about Kristen below.
Where did you attend school, and what did you study?
I have two degrees from SUNY Fredonia: a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on marketing, and a Bachelor of Science in Public Accountancy.
What led you to Milestone?
I wanted to find a company that holds similar values to my own and one that would allow me to grow professionally. Milestone is a boutique-sized company that adheres to beliefs that resonate with me: wanting to create a positive atmosphere for its employees while trying to build and better the local economy. The company’s young and upcoming vibe is an atmosphere I love to be a part of, as it gives me the opportunity to work with other driven individuals with the common goal of working together to grow Milestone’s business.
How would you describe your job as Milestone’s director of finance?
I handle the executive functions specific to the finances and reports, and I oversee all the accounting, books, and records for all companies included under Seventh Amendment Holdings.
Share something that’s particularly unique about your background and/or life.
In my transition between obtaining a degree in marketing to accounting, I took some time off and lived out west in Montana working as a white water raft guide, and I spent that following winter in Colorado working as a back country ski guide and guest ranch hand.
What’s it like to start a new job in the middle of a pandemic?
It was a bit nerve wracking to start a new position during a pandemic with the uncertainty of the economy. Even with remote working, the entire team at Milestone has been incredibly welcoming and helpful. Each employee has made sure to take time out of their busy days to set up introductory call with me or meetings to ensure that I’m made to feel welcome and a part of the team.
