In this insightful episode of Beyond the Ledger, I sit down with Derek Alonzo, Controller at Valor Companies, whose career journey is a powerful example of growth through humility, mentorship, and intentional decision-making.
Derek shares how early career struggles — including a difficult transition into a senior role — became defining moments that shaped how he leads today. From public accounting to Koch Industries and now into a high-impact controller role, his story highlights the importance of slowing down, seeking feedback, and learning from failure.
If you’re navigating your own career path, stepping into leadership, or trying to grow faster without burning out, this conversation breaks it all down with honesty, clarity, and real-world experience.
Whether you’re an accounting professional, emerging leader, or experienced executive, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately.
🎯 Key Quote:
“Ready, set… slow.”
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – From Public Accounting to Controller
02:30 – The Role Mentorship Played in Career Decisions
06:00 – Lessons from Public Accounting
09:15 – Failing as a First-Time Senior
12:30 – Transitioning to Koch Industries
16:00 – Understanding Principle-Based Management (PBM)
20:10 – Taking a Leap into a High-Growth Company
24:00 – The Learning Curve of Becoming a Controller
27:30 – Why Slowing Down Matters in Leadership
30:00 – System Implementation & Scaling Challenges
33:30 – Turning Failures into “Tuition Payments”
36:00 – Advice for Future Controllers & Leaders
Subscribe for more leadership conversations that go far beyond the numbers.
Listen now:
Apple
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-succeed-after-getting-promoted-seeking-feedback/id1843448325?i=1000761672489
Spotify
Connect with us:
Derek Alonzo on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekalonzo/
Valor Companies on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/valor-companies-llc
Troy Ashby on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/troyashby/
Troy Knows Talent Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/troyknowstalent/
Troy Knows Talent Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/troyknowstalent/
