Our Spotlight series lets us tell the stories of the people who make up the Lions & Tigers community. Lorraine Cunningham (she/her) is the first ever employee of L&T, so she has seen the whole narrative arc of the firm. Lorraine started working when she was 15 as a bank teller, so her skill with finance is undeniable. As CFO, Lorraine works part-time while supporting her family of children, dogs, and husband.

BACKGROUND
I’m a lifelong West Seattleite with a young family, two crazy dogs and a job which I adore at a company I love. I come from a banking, cash management, accounting background – I started with Bank of America as a teller just before my 16th birthday!

EXPERIENCE AT L&T
I’m the first ever employee of Lions & Tigers – pretty cool! I officially started in April 2018 but unofficially in January 2018 working on prior year taxes. It has been absolutely incredible to see the ways in which we’ve changed and the ways in which we’re the same. I think that stems from the confidence and values which Brea founded this community. I have the pleasure of leading our Operations and Finance teams at Lions & Tigers and have finance, compliance, tech, and plenty of other fun areas under my purview.

WHY L&T?
I went back to work when my kiddo was 4 months old and I missed him desperately. I decided, if I’m going to leave this kid each day it’s got to be really worth it. Our mission is worth it. I’m passionate about our values and mission – we get to work with incredibly talented people every day on compelling projects with inspiring clients. The ability to be a part-time executive?! I get to live my highest and best use every day, at work and at home.

PASSION FOR L&T
I’m passionate about making it easy for our team to do their work. How can Lions & Tigers be structured or act in ways which allow our team the space to feel inspired and focus?

HOBBIES
Personally, I love to be around my family and friends. I’m a voracious reader and appreciate reading people’s favorite books – the insights! I love travel and can’t wait to get back into seeing new places in this beautiful world.

BENEFIT OF HIGHEST & BEST USE
Life. Getting to truly live life even when it conflicts with traditional work hours. I went to my kiddos’ Valentine’s parade. Being able to look across personal and work, asking “what is the priority” and then being able to prioritize that thing. What a gift!

ANY PARTING WORDS?
If you have the room, and I realize not everyone is so fortunate, make the time to think about how your job or your career can bring joy to you and others. Not every day is the always interesting and inspiring, but if you’re able, find the thing where you feel joyful at work most of the time. Find your people! At the end of the day, it’s all about the people you get to do the work with.

Interested in joining Lions & Tigers?  Check out our open roles here.