Jim Stewart, CFO Edmentum
Jim has a knack for joining organizations where he sees potential for growth and change. In his role as CFO of Edmentum, Jim draws on his experience and leads the finance organization with an entrepreneurial flair. Having spent his earlier career at 3M and Imation, he has successfully taken on challenges and created business opportunities in a wide range of industries. Scouts Talent was curious to learn more…
If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose?
Intelligence agent in Eastern Europe or Middle East. I am fascinated with those cultures and would like to travel and learn more about them.
What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?
Do something you like to do. Work hard, but have fun. Get a mentor (or two) that you can confide in. Set some goals to grow personally and professionally, but do not be afraid to evolve.
What is your mantra?
When in doubt, hit the gas. There is always more trouble behind you than ahead of you.
How do you get yourself out of a slump?
Remind myself that nothing is ever as bad as it appears, nor is it ever as good as it appears.
What companies or leaders do you admire?
3M Company. They have real values that they believe in and guide their actions, but they are also not afraid to change and make tough decisions to improve their business.
What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade?
Education – the shift from national policy (common core) to state-controlled policy and school accountability. This shift impacts how we develop our products, how we build our business relationships and support our school customers.
Who has been most instrumental in your career?
Early in my career, Dave Kunz, 3M Europe Controller, who hired me to work in Europe. Also, Jill Burchill, my CFO/boss at Imation. A number of CEO’s that I have worked with: Joel Kocher (Micron), Al Lampe (Comm-Works), and Jamie Candee (Edmentum).
What is your go-to celebration meal, drink or tradition?
Enjoy celebrating with family and friends. When good things happen, be inclusive whether that is a dinner, an anniversary or celebratory trip.
