Her Story
About Jumana
Jumana Odeh serves as a Senior Analyst at Ernst & Young in Atlanta, Georgia, specializing in real estate investment and fund accounting. She brings 8 to 9 years of experience in accounting and finance, having started her career as an analyst at Coca-Cola before moving into property accounting for four years where she advanced to senior level. Jumana later worked in development accounting at a development firm and at an investment firm in the real estate hospitality space. She earned her degree from Georgia State University following studies at Perimeter College. Jumana attributes her professional success to her faith in God, her Jordanian family background and hospitality culture, and the steadfast support of her husband. She values balance between career and personal life, emphasizing kindness, forgiveness, and meaningful human impact in her work. Among her aspirations is one day owning her own hotel.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jumana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to God first and foremost, as I believe our gifts and destiny come from Him. My family background and the hospitality culture from my Jordanian roots have also shaped me, along with my husband's constant support that keeps me honest and balanced. I have overcome many barriers through God's grace and the people who took chances on me along the way.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be very clear on what you want out of this career and paint that picture for yourself so you can identify the necessary steps, certifications, connections, and experiences. Know yourself and develop people skills in addition to technical skills. Find a mentor who will cheer you on and support you outside your work environment. Accounting and finance can be a sure job but not always glamorous, so specialize strategically whether in tax, audit, or aiming for CFO.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is adapting to technology, AI, and fast-paced information while maintaining efficiency and accuracy. Companies must incorporate new systems and processes and get buy-in from both young and old staff. There's also the stress of quick turnarounds, continuous change, and avoiding burnout while meeting deadlines and keeping clients happy.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
God and family are the most important, along with finding balance between career drive and caring for myself and others. Treating people with kindness, acknowledging when I'm wrong, forgiving others and myself, and being intentional in marriage and relationships matter deeply. All the hard work feels meaningless without impacting people on a human level.
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