Pamela Rothka
CFO, Empower AI
Pamela Rothka’s biggest recent achievement was implementing changes in technology, management and processes to align with the company’s new private equity owner’s investment thesis. She upgraded the technology platform to improve reporting and project management, replacing an unsupported, costly and difficult-to-use tool. The new platform integrates fully with necessary systems, streamlining processes and reducing costs.
She also restructured financial procedures, improving cash position and EBITDA. This progress aligns with integrating the business development pipeline into the financial forecast, ensuring coordination between business units, the growth team, finance and leadership.
Rothka introduced greater financial and operational discipline by hiring the right professionals to fill vacancies. They seized the opportunities she provided through mentoring, partnering and cross-functional learning. This revitalized the work environment with a balanced schedule of in-office and remote days.
While a solid departmental structure and capabilities are essential, today’s CFOs also need a strategic mindset for the entire business. Rothka is committed to this goal by partnering with the leadership team to set strategy, optimize operations, invest in organic growth, pursue M&A, and help Empower AI achieve sustainable growth in an evolving market.
Why Watch
In 2024, Rothka’s team will be focused on mergers and acquisitions. Leadership identified M&A needs, and the team is actively pursuing opportunities with research and due diligence.
“Any CEO would be glad to have Pamela on the executive team, and I am grateful that she is a foundational member of ours,” said Empower AI CEO Jeff Bohling. “She’s made a significant impact in our transformation, and I enthusiastically endorse her as a CFO to Watch.”
Fun fact: Rothka played percussion in college orchestra and really enjoys the wonderful result of good teamwork. There’s a direct correlation with setting up and integrating different parts of an organization to come together and produce excellence, she said.
