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Like many, Tessa Foote fell into a career in the ARM industry, but then fell in love with it and never wanted to leave. Tessa has the distinction of working with Fox Collection first as a client before going to work for, and now running the company. And now that she is here, she can’t imagine doing anything else. Read on to learn more about Tessa, why she has nothing to hide, which comes at the price of total honesty, and her belief in the importance of process improvement.
Name: Tessa Foote
Job Title: President
Company: Fox Collection Center
Length of time at current company: 9 years
Length of time in industry: 9 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I was a client of FOX Collection for many years. When the company I was with was acquired, FOX opened the door for the most fulfilling career I could have ever asked for.
What is your career highlight so far?
In 2021, I moved into the role of President at FOX Collection Center. The direct impact I can provide in this role has been such an honor and has helped me grow both professionally and personally.
When or how are you most productive?
No question stumps me like this one! Ha! I tend to be most productive after a good cup of coffee and a quick overview of my calendar. Progress of items on my calendar has a huge impact on productivity because it motivates for more.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Oh, there are so many! Kelly Parson O’Brien has always been such an inspiration and a wealth of knowledge. I had watched her on countless webinars and finally one year in Las Vegas, our paths crossed and ever since she is not only a prominent voice in our industry, but also a friend.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I don’t know about better, but I have always thrived in areas of process improvement. I love a challenge of taking a process and making it better and better, no matter how long it’s been done the current way or when it was last changed. Never stop trying to improve your processes people!
What do you like most about this industry?
I love the people! Such a strong group of professionals who thrives on sharing the need for financial accountability and the desire to be a voice to every space that makes up our financial system.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Perception! Perception! Perception!
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I honestly can’t say! I came from healthcare, so I’m sure with Administration of some sort, but I am so passionate about the ARM industry that I could never imagine being a part of anything else.
Describe a typical work day.
Coffee, motivating staff, data analysis, client outreach, emails, phone calls, industry education, some type of rant on the current administration 😊 iykyk, more emails, more motivating, 2-hour round trip commute. Blessing of getting to do it all over again.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Starbucks and office potlucks!
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Use adversity as opportunity. Every loss leads to an opportunity, and every adversity leads to new possibilities.
What are you currently reading?
“Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I’m an open book. Ask me anything but be prepared for me to be honest about what I think.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Kelly O’Brien!
