90 Years. 90 Stories.

Colleen Politte

Colleen is a Controller for Purcell Tire and has been with the company for over 12 years.

When I was starting my career, I knew I wanted to be an accountant, part of something big, and not a tax accountant. Since I was working at a CPA firm at the time, taxes were a big part of that, and I knew I wanted something different. I was applying everywhere in St. Louis when I got a call from Nick French asking if I was interested in an interview. There was an opening because someone within the department was being promoted to a new role.

Even though I grew up driving past the retread plant in Potosi and the store in Crystal City, I had no idea what Purcell really was until I showed up for the interview. I thought I would only stay until I finished my MBA but a few months after I started, Roger showed up with a presentation for his new role as CEO. It was my first real exposure to “business strategy” outside of a classroom, and I was immediately hooked on the idea of our whole business model and so many moving pieces creating something so great. A short five years later I was presented with the opportunity to move to the controller role. On paper, I was not ready, but they gave me a chance anyway.

I love being part of a company with a story like Purcell—starting from something so small and growing into who we are today. I love the work that I do and the people that I work with. I love the projects I get to be involved in and the challenge, strategy, and growth in the acquisitions we have made over the past several years. I have been fortunate to be at a table where an accountant with a few years of experience might not have a seat let alone have a voice. I never thought I would have this opportunity so early in my career, and I am so grateful that Bob, Juanita, Roger and Chris were willing to give me a shot and have worked with me as I have grown into this role.

Congratulations, Bob and Juanita on 90 years! I’m so glad I get to be a part of your story.