CFO Recognition Awards 2012: James DeBolt, Midstate Construction

Chief financial officer

[caption id="attachment_59609" align="alignleft" width="220" caption="James DeBolt"][/caption]Midstate Construction Corp.1180 Holm Rd., Petaluma 94954, 707-762-3200, midstateconstruction.com

Employees: 60

Professional background: CFO, Midstate Construction Corp., 2003--present; secretary/treasurer and controller, C.R. Fedrick, Inc., Novato, 1990--2003; cost accounting manager; Sundt Corp., Tucson, Ariz., 1984--1990; chief accountant, Sundt International, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, 1981--1984; division accounting supervisor; M.M. Sundt Construction Co. , Phoenix, Ariz., 1979--1981; accountant, Del E. Webb Corp., Phoenix, Ariz., 1975--1979

Education: B.S. Business Administration, Arizona State University, 1973

Age: 61

Comment about James DeBolt: "Jim is entering his 10th year (at the company) and has established a remarkable record of consistency and professionalism. Jim, together with his staff of four, handle the myriad complexities of our various clients and suppliers with extraordinary efficiency. And, the best part, Jim is a great team mate -- no surprises, no issues, always several steps ahead -- allowing the rest of the Midstate team to focus on what they do best: building." ---Roger Nelson, president, Midstate Construction

Questions for Mr. DeBolt:

What do you see as the essential role of a financial leader in the current environment?

With all the economic challenges for the last few years, it is important to keep your goals in mind and not overreact to unforeseen events.

What are the biggest changes you've seen in your industry?

Much more government regulations and requirements.

Tell us about the particular challenges and opportunities your organization has met in the recent past?

Moving to an integrated companywide software system from separate accounting, job cost and estimating software. Bringing different systems and work styles together into a single working environment.

What advice would you give to young emerging financial leaders?

Learn the basics and listen. Important information is available if you watch for it.

What's the best advice for weathering today's economic environment?

The economy is cyclical. While the economy is down, it is the right time to position yourself for the changes that will come.

How do you think your business will change in the next five years?

Construction is always changing. With the population aging, different markets will open, and companies will have to evolve in order to meet the new demands.

What is your most memorable business experience?

Working in Saudi Arabia. Working in a foreign country and dealing with different cultures, customs and business practices. We employed hundreds of workers coming from numerous countries -- the U.S., Philippines, Yemen and Saudi Arabia. The interactions with the different cultures was challenging and rewarding.

Current reading: Locked On by Tom Clancy

Stress relievers: Racquetball

Favorite activities outside work: Racquetball, snow skiing, working out and reading

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