What has surprised you most about Berkadia?
What has surprised me the most about Berkadia is the diverse service lines and how seamlessly they all collaborate. With my background concentrating on contracted work for the DOD and Government sector, you never see how the individuals you influenced to join a project or company work together. At Berkadia from engineering, software development to even product management or CRE positions, I love seeing various departments and business units I have played a part in building working together.
What led you to Berkadia?
Before joining Berkadia, I was approached by a recruiter on LinkedIn who highlighted an opportunity with the company. Despite initial hesitation, my openness to conversation led to discussions with Emma Petersen and Danielle D’Andrea. During the interview process, many differentiates stood out to me. After concluding the interviews, I discussed my options with my wife and Berkadia stood out to me the most because at various times, those I was interviewing with recognized my background for training, something no other company had done before. Additionally, I felt a genuine desire from Berkadia for me to be a part of their team, in contrast to other companies where I felt like I was still competing to prove my worth.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone interviewing with Berkadia?
One valuable piece of advice for someone interviewing with Berkadia is to avoid stating that you are “coachable” or “willing to learn.” Instead, focus on discussing your transferable skills and experiences from the past. Highlighting how your previous skills can be applied to the role demonstrates your value and ability to think creatively, showcasing your capacity to adapt and contribute effectively within the organization. This approach emphasizes your ability to think outside the box and positions you as a strong candidate.
What is your favorite Berkadia value?
My favorite Berkadia value is “People Matter.” While this principle may seem like common sense, Berkadia stands out in its execution. Unlike many companies, Berkadia truly embodies this value through constant communication and actions that support it. The company’s genuine belief in the importance of people is evident in the way they integrate this value seamlessly into their operations. This approach aligns perfectly with Berkadia’s commitment to taking the long view, pursuing excellence, and fostering a deep love for our jobs. The genuine dedication to valuing people sets Berkadia apart and makes it a truly exceptional workplace.
If your life had a soundtrack, what would it be?
Yellowcard’s “Ocean Avenue” album became the soundtrack of a significant chapter in my life. After relocating back to the states and living in Florida in 2001 and feeling unfamiliar with the culture, the album became a connection point. Helping me find friends and furthermore, Yellowcard also played a significant role in my relationship with my mother, adding depth and meaning to the songs. This album symbolizes not just a musical preference but also a bridge to friendships and emotional connections during a time of adjustment and growth for me.
