CFMA recently had an opportunity to sit down with Brad Collins, the Division Controller of Barrett Industries in Syracuse, NY. Brad is also one of CFMA’s 40 Under 40 Honorees. 

 Here are 10 interesting facts Brad shared with us:

Q: What is your favorite thing in your office?
A: My favorite thing in my office is a guitar I keep hanging on my office wall. Sometimes when I need a mental break I’ll pick it up and play a bit. It helps ease my mind.
 

Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?
A: My guilty pleasure is sweets. I have an unreal sweet tooth and absolutely cannot be stopped around a candy dish. I try to avoid sweets, but sometimes I can’t help myself.

 
Q: Do you have children?
A: I have two daughters, ages four and six. They definitely keep me busy. Very busy.
 

Q: What are you reading right now?
A: Right now I am reading “Think Again” by Adam Grant. It’s about the power of knowing what you don’t know.
 

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?
A: My favorite part of my job is getting out in the field and meeting the people that really make it happen. I always enjoy seeing someone in their element and doing what they do best.

Q: What have you learned about being a leader?
A: Being a leader, I have learned to be open-minded. Having the first idea doesn’t always mean you have the best idea. Listen more and be open to changing your opinion.
 

Q: What do you do to unwind from work?
A: To unwind after work, I go home and play with my kids and listen to music — usually at the same time — or golfing in the summer.
 

Q: What career advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?
A: The career advice I would give to my 18-year-old self is to be genuine. Trust your instincts and things will work out.
 

Q: Where did you grow up at?
A: I grew up in the Queen City — Buffalo, New York. Go Bills!
 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A: The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to be humble; lions don’t have to roar. I’m still working on it…