ELFA - Equipment Leasing and Finance Association - Equipping Business for Success

Women's Spotlight

This new Q&A series is brought to you by the ELFA Women’s Council

Jerrie Carter

Retail Credit Manager
Volvo Financial Services

Spotlight Mind Map: JerrieCarter

What different roles have you held throughout your career?

Account Resolutions Specialist, Repossession Specialist, Retail Credit Analyst, Senior Inside Sales Specialist, Retail Credit Manager.

How did you start your career in the equipment finance industry?

I joined Volvo Financial Services in 1998 as an Account Resolutions Specialist.

What is one piece of advice that has stuck with you throughout your career?

The PIES concept for career advancement: performance, image, exposure and sponsorship.

What advice do you wish you knew when you were a starting out in your career?

Appreciate who you are and who you are becoming. Know that your journey may differ from others but that doesn’t make your journey any less beautiful.

What is the biggest challenge either personally or professionally you have had to overcome? What did you learn from the experience?

The biggest challenge for me personally has been going back to graduate school to pursue my MBA at my current age. It has been challenging and rewarding at the same time. I have no regrets. I have rediscovered the thirst for knowledge in all facets and will likely continue to be a lifelong learner.

Who has been the biggest influence on your life and why?

I would have to say my parents are the biggest influences on my life. They both have worked really hard and have served as the blueprint for the work ethic and character that I have today.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work?

I love what I do. I enjoy the art and science of finance and credit. I enjoy working with people. I love the small part that I play in the transportation industry.

Any favorite line from a movie?

“It’s not about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”

Where’s your favorite place in the world?

Anywhere with my family.

What traits have made you successful in the various roles you have held?

Competence, high level of integrity, determination, drive, passion, self-confidence, strong communication skills, self-reliance, resilience, willingness to learn, responsibility and grateful leadership.

If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Surround yourself with people who pour into you in a good way and who will push you to be the best you can be.

What is the best piece of career advice you've been given?

Don’t tell yourself no. Do not be afraid to go for what you want.

What do you think are the most effective characteristics of a leader?

A leader is transparent, is an effective coach, leads by example, encourages, listens, gives credit to the team and inspires.

What’s your mantra and why?

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” because it is my motivator. I bet on me and I know I can do anything as long as I keep the faith.

What extracurricular activities do you take part in?

I play co-ed volleyball and I volunteer at my church and with my sorority. I enjoy serving others.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.

I am the mother of two adult children whom I adore. They keep me young, grounded and happy.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I know how to decorate cakes on an amateur basis.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would you like to see cast as you?

Regina Hall because she is beautiful and talented.

Interview and editing by: Lexie Dressman, Counsel -Senior/Assistant Vice President, Huntington Equipment Finance
Visit the Women’s Leadership page for additional resources from the ELFA Women’s Council.