Chapter 1

Keep On Trucking

Ralph Wilson

Jenny Baker was viewed by her associates as a brilliant CFO. She was known for her ability to predict the outcome of future uncertainties with startling accuracy. She was also known to be very demanding, even intimidating at times. Many of her staff had experienced one of her famous outbursts; consequently, they didn't always feel comfortable asking her many questions. She had started her career as a staff auditor for one of the Big Four accounting firms, where she specialized in the transportation industry and was well regarded for her understanding of the nuances of sometimes complex financial transactions.

Using her experience as a launching pad, Jenny had taken a job in regulatory accounting for a regional trucking firm and had moved quickly through the ranks to become the CFO. Not content with a regional firm, she had made several strategic career moves that finally landed her a job as vice president of finance at a national transportation company. During her tenure there, Jenny had gained the confidence of those around her, including the CEO and many of the directors on the company's board.

While pursuing her career, Jenny had also found time to marry and have two children; she even had three grandkids. When she wasn't working, she loved to spend time with her grandchildren; she would even plan her vacations as family events so that she could include them. She was in her mid-fifties, had a nice home, a country-club membership and was ...

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