AP Supervisor
While Averna is dedicated to help global customers produce market-leading high-tech products, this could not be achieved without their talented team of employees. Averna understands that each group and department are linked, and every individual is required to make the company a success. In this series, Averna will chat with one of these individuals and understand their point of view on their contribution.
Karla Rodriguez has worked as an AP Supervisor in Averna’s finance department since 2021, but her love of numbers didn’t start there. Even as a child, she loved playing with cash registers, coins and money. In high school, she started helping her aunt, who works as an accountant, with basic accounting tasks. She has always been there for her family to help them plan and invest for their futures, therefore it is not surprising that her career path also led her in this direction. Karla feels strongly committed to her work and is a true asset to the Averna team.
Q: Where were you before Averna and how did you get here?
A: I have always loved numbers and math, but my first professional steps in accounting happened during college, so I was only 19! I was studying Accounting and Finance and alongside the theoretical background, I wanted to gain practical experience. I knew this would lay a good foundation for my professional career.
In the first 5 years after obtaining my Bachelor's degree, I worked at a company that manufactures machines and axles. I started in Accounts Payables and then got promoted to Cost Accountant. I joined Averna about two and a half years ago. My main reason for this change was my desire to work in a company that would allow me to plan my life with a good work/life balance. Averna is the perfect match for this.
Q: What attracted you to the Finance Departement?
A: I am the type of person who is very organized and detail-oriented. I've been interested in numbers and math since I was at school. That’s why accounting and finance departments attract my focus.
Q: What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
A: While working for Averna, I have learned a lot from other accounting leaders and have been able to share my experience as well. This has not been limited to my region but also includes other Averna offices worldwide. This has been key for my professional development and I am pleased that I can share my knowledge with other employees.
Q: What do you think are the most challenging tasks you are responsible for in our international company?
A: I’m not sure I would call it the most challenging necessarily, but a big priority is certainly maintaining our good business relationships with our suppliers. We are counted on to deliver and they are a big part of our ecosystem.
Q: Have you had any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are, what you believe in and what you’re committed to in your work and life?
A: Yes, of course. There are many people who have influenced me on different levels during my career at Averna. Thanks to them I have learned to develop soft skills, helping me become a manager, coach on how to solve problems and issues from different angles, and be open-minded to grow. Mariève Carrier and Itzia Martinez in particular come to mind.
Q: Do you feel you achieve a good work/life balance?
A: Absolutely, I have been able to work harder and at the same time enjoy my private life with family and friends. I really appreciate this nowadays.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: Averna has had confidence in me since the beginning of my career here. I started as an analyst, then became a coordinator and now I am a supervisor leading an exceptional team. I am proud of how far I have come. However, I owe this not only to my dedication, but also to the people who have accompanied and coached me along the way.
Q: What have you learned from Averna that will be a takeaway for the rest of your life?
A: I have learned that there are no limits to growth if you truly love what you do, if you are genuinely interested in learning more every day, and if you take action on your dreams or what you want to become.
If you set yourself a goal and work for it, you will eventually get what you want.