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Malia White
Controller – Earth Retention
Malia White
Controller – Earth Retention
Historically, the journey of women toward leadership roles has been marked by formidable barriers, entrenched societal norms, and systemic obstacles. Yet, across centuries, the narrative of women in leadership has undergone a remarkable transformation. From the confines of domesticity and secondary roles, women have steadily dismantled barriers, ascending to positions of power and influence that once seemed unattainable.
In this landscape of progress and change, one figure stands out as an icon of inspiration: Malia White. As the controller of Earth Retention, a company at the forefront of engineering excellence, Malia embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that defines the journey of women in leadership.
As we look ahead to 2024, Malia White emerges as one of the most influential women leaders to watch. Her innovative approach, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence not only propel Earth Retention forward but also inspire a new generation of women leaders across industries.
From the Scratch
Growing up on an island, Malia White was away from the mainstream city life, which in a way helped her to find a profound sense of resourcefulness and responsibility, particularly in managing finances.
The journey of starting from scratch ignited a passion within Malia, akin to facing a blank page with the confidence to create something extraordinary. This enthusiasm led her to pursue finance and accounting, which resulted in exploring her inner potential to transform seemingly abstract numbers into compelling narratives that drive business success and stability. Moreover, the influence of her husband reinforced her conviction in this career path, affirming its alignment with her skills and aspirations.
With a bachelor’s degree in accounting complemented by a minor in business marketing and an MBA focusing on accounting and taxation, Malia possesses a comprehensive understanding of both financial and marketing aspects. This interdisciplinary expertise enables her to offer holistic advice and solutions tailored to diverse business needs.
Journey towards Earth Retention
In 2011, Malia White co-founded a small consulting firm specializing in accounting and tax services, coinciding with the establishment of Earth Retention in 2010. While managing her consulting firm, Malia had direct interactions with the then Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Earth Retention in 2019. Recognizing the expertise she could offer, the CFO engaged Malia on a consulting basis to address various financial issues within the company.
During this consulting engagement, Malia assisted small business owners in restructuring their financial processes and provided guidance on implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, among other services. As her involvement with Earth Retention deepened, Malia trained the accountant who eventually assumed the accounting role for the company from 2019 until her termination in 2020.
Given her familiarity with the intricacies of Earth Retention’s operations and financial systems, Malia reached out to the CEO in February 2021. Following their discussion, she assumed the role of Controller at Earth Retention, leveraging her expertise to streamline financial operations and drive sustainable growth for the organization.
Earth Retention captured Malia’s attention due to the opportunity to address real challenges and implement meaningful changes within the company. She appreciates the diverse team at Earth Retention, composed of individuals with varied backgrounds and skills. Malia notes the synergy between engineers and accountants in their shared passion for numbers and data.
As the Controller
During a brief interview when we asked Malia to talk about her current roles and responsibilities as the controller of Earth Retention, she shared – “My role is packed with critical tasks that ensure our financial operations run effectively”. “Be it Internal Control, Financial Reporting & Analysis, Regulatory Compliance, External Audits, Risk Management, Continuous Improvement or even being involved in the implementation and management of our ERP system. It’s a steep climb, but I’m geared up and ready for the trek. Let’s hope I don’t need a sherpa!”.
Also during the conversation Malia spoke about how her role involves her in overseeing financial operations and ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices. And, she emphasizes the importance of regular policy review, staying updated through continuous learning, and closely monitoring financial reporting and analysis to maintain accuracy, transparency, and timeliness.
Despite the complexity of her role, she acknowledges that there’s no foolproof formula for managing it all. However, with a combination of determination, resourcefulness, and a touch of luck, Malia adeptly juggles her responsibilities, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently.
In the Days to Come
In the next 5-10 years, Malia White envisions significant growth and success for both herself and Earth Retention. Professionally, she anticipates continued development and potential leadership roles within the organization, driving strategic initiatives and contributing to its long-term vision. Malia aims to enhance her expertise in finance and accounting while nurturing her leadership skills and fostering a positive work culture within Earth Retention.
As for Earth Retention, Malia sees the company solidifying its position as an industry leader, expanding its market reach, and diversifying its offerings to meet evolving customer needs. Through strategic investments in technology, innovation, and talent development, Malia is sure that Earth Retention will enhance efficiency, sustainability, and excellence in operations, and will maintain a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, positively impacting the communities it serves and the environment.
Knowing Malia White
Books have played a pivotal role in Malia White’s education, accounting for approximately 80% of her self-directed learning in finance and accounting. Supported by her husband’s unwavering belief in her abilities, Malia’s self-learning journey has been further reinforced.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, Malia implements various strategies to ensure her well-being and effectiveness in her role. She prioritizes tasks, sets boundaries, delegates responsibilities, and practices self-care. Additionally, Malia emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, effective communication, and seeking support when needed.
On a personal level, Malia strives to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle that prioritizes well-being, relationships, and personal interests. This includes dedicating time to family and loved ones, pursuing hobbies such as reading, hiking, and camping, and ensuring a healthy work-life balance to sustain her overall happiness and fulfillment.
Company
Earth Retention
Management
Malia White
Controller
Description
Earth Retention provides professional services to the public and private sectors, and our team includes some of the consummate experts in their fields. From the beginning of your project to the final completion, we are there with you.
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