The Spotlight – Accounting
| MAIN OFFICE : 6415 GRANGER ROAD, INDEPENDENCE, OHIO 44131 |
| Site Description: Can you provide a brief overview of the primary responsibilities and functions of your department? The Accounting Team plays a vital role in the success of our organization by managing the financial backbone of our operations. They handle everything managing accounts payable and receivable to reconciling budgets and preparing financial reports. Beyond the numbers, the team ensures compliance with tax regulations, oversees audits, and provides critical insights for strategic planning. Their attention to detail, accuracy, and efficiency helps the company maintain financial health and make informed decisions for growth. In essence, the Accounting Team keeps our financial operations running smoothly, ensuring stability and success for the entire organization. Key Personnel: FINANCE DIRECTOR: Ryan Caruso SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER: Karen Lekan SR. FINANCIAL ANALYST: Sue Harris EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/ACCOUNTING SPECIALIST: Faith Paulchell ACCOUNTS PAYABLE REPRESENTATIVE: Leslie Safranek ACCOUNTING INTERN: Aleeya Pavlick Share interesting or unique details about your team members (hobbies, achievements, etc.) / Are there any interesting or fun facts about your department that people might not know? Ryan: When my wife and I were dating we were out having lunch and saw the Red Cross Bloodmobile pass us. And on a whim, we decided to donate blood. I later found out I have O- blood and have since donate 53 units (over 6.5 gallons). It only takes an hour of your time and is a great way to give back. Karen: I have been with KBI for 35 years and love my job and the “Kurtz family”. My goal is 50 years! I love spending time with family (especially my granddaughter) and friends. LOVE hosting parties at my house. In the summertime I enjoy gardening and kayaking. Love pool parties or just spending time in the pool. We are very involved in our church. I spend several days a week in some activity or ministry. I love giving back and helping others. Whenever I do retire, I hope to do even more. Sue: Throughout my 35 years here at KBI, I have assisted in the accounting departments for KBBE, PMP Foundation, CDF Inc, Envi, Meldo Realty, and many moons ago split part of my work week to help out down at KB Columbus-Groveport location. Currently, I oversee AP and keep the work papers nice and tidy for our y/e review for KBI, KF Leasing and KBFoundry. Since June, been doing the books for E&S and helping out with the MKB et al companies. At times it can get quite hectic switching gears between the companies, but it’s a challenge that I gladly enjoy! When I am not at work, I love to go to trivia, hiking in the Metroparks with my friends, and spending time with my family and my French Bulldog, Shmurda. Faith: I was hired in as the Executive Assistant for the Officers of the company in 2002 and transitioned over to the Accounting Department about 10+/-years ago. I have two brothers (Joe and Tom) and one sister (Amber). I met my husband Sam at KB when he was the IT Manager and we got married in 2008. I enjoy hiking, biking, gardening, reading, wine tastings and doing home remodeling jobs with my husband. Our cat Pepper is three years old and we were introduced to her via Karen Lekan’s friend. Pepper is spoiled on a daily basis and we are so glad she is ours (thanks Karen)! My son Alexander is 35 years old and currently pursuing his PhD at the University of Arizona in Tucson where he currently lives. Leslie: In my free time, I enjoy helping my neighbors, whether it’s mowing their lawns or shoveling their driveways. I also love baking and crafting, and I consider myself a jack of all trades, knowing a little about everything! I have a dog named Penny who I absolutely adore! Aleeya: I’m a first-year student at CSU studying accounting. I am trained in three different roles within Kurtz Bros, and I enjoy learning new skills and challenging myself. If I’m not cooking or baking, you can find me volunteering at my church!! Do you have any team-building activities or traditions that contribute to a positive work environment? Each year, we step out of the office for a team-building activity to regroup, recharge, and strengthen our bond. Last year, we hit the greens at Top Golf! Are there any strategic initiatives that your team is excited to work on? Accounting initiatives for the year will be to further streamline processes around Expense Reports and Accounts Receivable to improve our efficiencies. Culture: Describe the culture and atmosphere at your site. What makes it special? The accounting team thrives on a culture of collaboration, humor, and support. With Ryan leading the team, this dynamic group of women strikes the perfect balance between hard work and camaraderie, always finding moments for laughter along the way. Together, they tackle challenges with expertise and a shared sense of purpose, all while fostering a fun and welcoming atmosphere. |
