On the Rise: Sheh Kadir

Sheh Kadir

Financial analyst | Sun Auto Tire & Service | Mesa, Ariz. | Age: 31

What was your first job in the industry?

My first job in the industry was at a Jiffy Lube. This was actually my first job ever as well. I still remember the rush of back-to-back oil changes, tire rotations, and other services like it was yesterday. I built a great work ethic from this job that I've carried with me throughout my career.

What attracted you to the industry?

I always had a passion for cars growing up and enjoy working on cars in my free time so it's natural for me to gravitate towards this industry. From my first job as a tech at Jiffy Lube to my current role as a financial analyst at Sun Auto, I love talking cars all day.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career?

In finance specifically it was really hard for me to get my foot in the door without connections. I had to network and build my resume in any possible way that I could. Never stop learning and putting yourself out there!

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

The biggest influence on my career was Brandon Morgan, he was the controller at the Pacific Science Center who brought me in as an intern in the accounting and finance department while I was in college. Because of my opportunity here, I was able to get first-hand experience on what it was like to work in an office and I discovered my passion for corporate finance. Currently, I am inspired by the senior leadership and everyone at Sun Auto because of how supportive and kind they are. I am very lucky to be part of such a great team!

What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?

My biggest accomplishment so far in the industry was becoming a subject matter expert during a transitional time for our company’s data. Thanks to our IT team, the finance department was juiced up with reporting capabilities. I took this opportunity to migrate critical reports and build them in a more efficient way that was also more easily accessible for senior leadership.

Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?

I'm a financial analyst at Sun Auto Tire & Service. I spend my day diving into data, spotting trends and creating reports and dashboards that help the team make smart decisions. It's all about turning numbers into insights that keep the business running smoothly.

Tell us about your family.

I'm blessed with a beautiful wife and an incredible son who inspire me every day.

What is the most essential professional skill for someone in your job?

The most essential professional skill is communication. A big part of my job is taking complex financial concepts and presenting them in a way that anyone can easily understand, so the team can make informed decisions quickly.

What song takes you back to high school?

"Poetic Justice" by Kendrick Lamar, featuring Drake

If you could start a new career tomorrow, what would you do?

If I could start a new career tomorrow, I'd pick the same one. I love the challenge, the growth, and being part of big business decisions. Getting to combine that with my passion for cars makes it the perfect fit for me.

Do you live by inbox zero, or inbox disaster?

Inbox zero — although it might look like a disaster!

In the next 10 years, what will be the biggest change in the tire industry?

In the next 10 years I think the biggest changes will come from technology. From smart sensors in tires to optimize vehicle performance to airless and puncture-proof tires — it's exciting to think about!

What moment in life would you like to live over again?

Honestly, I wouldn't want to relive a single day. Every day has its own meaning. Meeting my wife or the day my son was born was incredible, but every day with them continues to be just as amazing.

What hobby or activity helps you unwind?

I unwind by being with my family and indulging in hobbies I'm passionate about like music, cars, video games and cooking. It's a great way to reset and come back to work refreshed.

If it was your job to persuade new people to join the tire industry, what would be your best selling point?

The tire industry offers a unique combination of stability and innovation. You're part of an essential business that's evolving rapidly with new technologies, and there's a lot of room to grow and make a difference.

What’s one thing you would change about yourself?

I value learning and growth so I'm always striving to improve. I focus more on what i can learn or change each day rather than wishing I were different. I try to be better today than I was yesterday.

Pick a celebrity and explain why you think he/she would be a great tire dealer.

I'd pick Steve Carell because of how he sold paper on “The Office” as Michael Scott. Selling is all about connecting with people and making the experience memorable, and he nails that.