When Kelsey Schoenfeld first joined Vorto as a temporary contractor, she was eager to develop her skills and cultivate growth opportunities that fostered tangible results. Having previously worked in insurance, Schoenfeld wanted to gain a deeper understanding of other industries. That desire to expand her knowledge and advance her career led her to Vorto, a business focused on driving efficiency in demand, procurement, logistics, and operations through AI-powered technology.
“I spent three years in entry-level accounting at my previous employer and was eager to take on more responsibilities, but my requests were met with resistance,” she says. “As someone with a curious mind and a drive to reach my full potential, I was searching for a company where my values, goals, and mission aligned with the culture.”
Refusing to settle for complacency, Schoenfeld persisted, and when Vorto offered her a full-time position, she accepted. Now, after steadily moving up the ladder, she’s the Finance Manager. Her role allows her to nurture her curiosities, solve supply chain inefficiencies, and help drive industry-wide innovation.
“Vorto not only encourages embracing ambiguity and challenging the status quo but also provides the tools, support, and opportunities to effect meaningful change,” she explains. “I’m inspired by the company’s culture and mission to this day.”
Here, she shares how Vorto supports employee growth and development, why the company is a great place for early-career talent, and the best advice for those looking to progress and excel in their careers.
Tell us about your career journey. What inspired you to pursue a career in finance?
My career took a few turns as I explored different opportunities. However, for the most part, it’s been driven by a passion for numbers, analysis, and solving complex problems. I’m fascinated by how data and insights influence business decisions and organizational success. Over the years, I’ve discovered that I thrive when combining different perspectives to deepen understanding and develop impactful solutions. From my roles in accounting and finance, I’ve learned that I excel at evaluating complex situations, connecting the dots, and understanding the broader impact of my work. My curiosity about the “why” and “how” pushes me to keep learning and growing, which aligns well with finance’s fast-paced, strategic nature.
What are your core responsibilities as the Finance Manager? Why does this work excite or inspire you?
My day-to-day work varies, which is energizing, as redundancy and routine can limit growth. My core duties include budgeting, financial modeling, and analysis (it sounds boring when I put it like that, but it’s very fun in a startup environment), exposing me to nearly every part of the business and deepening my understanding of how strategic decisions impact operations at a micro level. Additionally, I learn about the industries and geographies the company operates in. While synthesizing data can be demanding, I see it as an opportunity to grow professionally and personally. This dynamic environment motivates me to learn, adapt, and contribute to the company’s success.
You’ve been at Vorto for four years. Describe your career path. Where did you start, and how did you move up into your current role?
My career has been both exciting and rewarding. I started as a staff accountant, was promoted to Senior Accountant within a year, then moved up to Accounting Manager after seven months. About a year and a half ago, I became Finance Manager.
I credit this progress to my work ethic and leadership’s commitment to empowering employees. Their support has helped me unlock my potential and push the boundaries of what success means to me.
How does Vorto support employee development and growth? What programs or initiatives help facilitate internal mobility?
Employee development is supported through various initiatives, including the launch of a leadership program in 2023 designed to foster professional growth. Beyond structured training, the company also offers coaching and mentorship opportunities. However, what I find most facilitative toward growth is Vorto’s emphasis on intangible development. Relative to other companies I’ve worked for, Vorto’s executive leadership team is highly accessible, fostering transparency and creating opportunities for all employees to engage with those who drive change. This open environment inspires a culture of continuous growth, collaboration, and a shared commitment to success.
What’s your favorite aspect of Vorto’s company culture, and why?
My favorite aspect is its “win or die” mentality—a slogan still displayed on neon signs throughout the office. While some may see this as intense, I view it as a powerful reminder that success must be earned through hard work and resilience. It constantly motivates me to push myself to be the best version of who I can be every day. This no-excuses attitude fosters a high-performance environment where challenge and growth are the norm.
What’s one highlight of your career thus far at Vorto, and why?
While I wouldn’t say I have one definitive highlight, my journey has been a continuous learning experience. Every step—whether taking on new responsibilities, building new processes, supporting team initiatives, or navigating challenges—has contributed to my personal and professional development. I appreciate the opportunity to expand my skills, collaborate with talented colleagues, and see how my work helps drive the company forward. This mindset of continuous improvement and the ability to make a meaningful impact day-to-day are the true highlights of my time here.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome it? What valuable lessons have you applied to your current role?
The biggest challenge I face is a recurring one: the constant pressure to improve every day. I’m regularly challenged by myself, my supervisors, and my team to perform better than the day before, which drives a high standard of excellence. While this relentless pursuit pushes me to grow and deliver consistent results, it can also be draining, especially when balancing these demands with my personal life and the people I hold close to my heart.
However, I’ve learned this challenge fosters resilience and discipline. I’ve been inspired to cultivate my inner strength, prioritize effectively, manage stress proactively, and embrace continuous growth. These lessons have reinforced the idea that excellence is a never-ending pursuit.
Why is Vorto a great company for potential candidates—especially early-career talent—looking to achieve career growth?
Qualities like eagerness to learn, ambition, and curiosity are highly valued. Vorto’s culture of empowerment sets it apart; the new-hire veil is often lifted early, allowing employees to forge their paths and tailor their careers to their interests. It’s a challenging environment that rewards those with determination, aptitude, and a drive for greatness. For those willing to embrace the pressure, Vorto offers a unique platform for accelerated personal and professional growth.
What advice would you give those looking to advance their careers like you did? What steps should they take to achieve success?
First, never settle and never be satisfied with the status quo. Be proactive and drive positive change (for yourself and the organization) so you’re not left behind when circumstances shift.
Second, don’t hesitate to speak up or take action if you see an opportunity to prevent a mistake or improve a situation.
Finally, be yourself. I believe true success comes from owning your journey—your achievements and setbacks. While finding a company that aligns with your authentic self might accelerate growth, ultimately, your ownership, accountability, and drive will propel you to new heights.
