Octavia Young

CFO / Managing Partner at ELEMENT (Event Rental)

Industry/Field Expertise:

With extensive experience in the event production rental industry, I specialize in driving company growth, optimizing departmental operations, and ensuring cost-effectiveness across all functions. My knowledge spans financial management, project oversight, and streamlining processes to enhance efficiency. I have a proven track record in managing in-house teams, fostering a collaborative work environment, and maintaining strong client relationships through proactive communication and tailored solutions. My ability to oversee multiple aspects of event coordination, from logistics to client interactions, has been instrumental in delivering seamless and successful events.

Professional Experience:

My professional journey began at 17 when I started interning at a non-profit organization supporting at-risk youth and survivors of sex trafficking in Texas. While balancing online college courses, I transitioned into a full-time staff role, which was my first significant leadership experience. Later, I moved back to Louisiana to be closer to family, re-enrolled in online college, and began working for the Department of Children and Family Services. At the request of my father, I shifted careers and joined my father’s event rental company, Element, to assist in the company’s continuity through and after covid. Despite initially having no interest in working there, I quickly discovered my aptitude for the role and my passion for the business. I started at our Lafayette location learning sales and operations, then transferred to our main hub in New Orleans to begin overseeing operations. I am currently a managing partner and Chief Financial Officer of the company. My new role has allowed me to oversee the company expansion into the Mississippi market.  

Within the ARA I participate on several levels including assisting in informative articles for our trade magazine, participating in women's groups within the ARA and currently, I serve on the board of the American Rental Association (ARA) of Louisiana, where I currently hold the position of Vice President.  

Throughout my career, I’ve honed my leadership and mentoring skills by learning from real-world experiences while also managing and coaching team members. My journey has instilled in me the value of adaptability, resilience, and the importance of empowering others to succeed, all of which I hope to share with future mentees.

Specialized Skills:

I bring a diverse skill set, including expertise in sales, operations, management, and accounting, which allows me to drive both strategic and day-to-day business functions. My strong problem-solving abilities enable me to navigate challenges effectively, while my leadership experience has been key in guiding teams through periods of uncertainty and driving company expansion. 

Years of Experience: 

Event Rental Experience – 5 years

Having grown up in the industry, I have been involved with the family business for as long as I remember. While I have formerly worked in the company for 5 years, my experience and familiarity with the event rental industry span much longer.

Finance Experience - 1 year 

Mentoring at Risk Youth - 3 years 

Strengths as a Mentor: 

As a mentor, I offer guidance in key areas such as networking and relationship building, leadership development, business expansion strategies, work-life integration, personal growth, financial management, and overall business strategy. These strengths allow me to support mentees in both their professional and personal growth, helping them navigate challenges and seize opportunities for success.

Preferred Mentee Type:

I am most interested in working with mentees who are driven, adaptable, focused on personal development, and seek to expand a professional network.

Community Impact:

I have been volunteering to mentor at-risk youth who are struggling with trauma, self harm, growth, and relationships with parents and friends for 3 years. 

Personal Hobbies/Interests: 

I enjoy staying active through tennis, walking, riding bikes around New Orleans, as well as Pilates. I have a passion for travel, exploring new destinations with family and friends, and experiencing diverse cultures. I also enjoy trying new restaurants, attending events, and hosting gatherings with friends and family. Additionally, I appreciate staying current with trends and enjoy shopping as a way to unwind and express my personal style. 

Values or Mission Statement:

My motivation to mentor stems from the transformative impact that mentorship has had on my own journey. I attribute much of my personal and professional growth to the guidance and support of mentors who have shaped my path. Having navigated life’s challenges without a maternal figure, I was fortunate to be mentored by remarkable women who provided invaluable support and direction during my teenage and adult years. Their mentorship continues to resonate with me, influencing my decisions and perspectives today.

Now, at a stage in my career where I can give back, I am deeply committed to helping others grow in the same way. I believe mentorship is a powerful tool for development, not only for the mentee but also for the mentor, as it fosters a reciprocal process of growth and fulfillment. My mission is to offer guidance, encouragement, and support, empowering others to achieve their full potential and thrive both personally and professionally.

Preferred Communication Style: 

I prefer in-person meetings. 

Preferred outreach:

Text message or email.

Email: octavia@exploreelement.com

Cell: 337-281-4490

Availability:

I have a flexible schedule for meetings.