Tibeb Eshetu

Years with MIL: 3.5 years

1. What were you doing before joining MIL?

Before joining MIL, I used to work for a mortgage company as a Staff Accountant for two years. I used to run and save the Aggregated Funding Report everyday based on the Purchase Advise date and manage bank reconciliation

2. Why did you decide to join MIL?

I was referred by a friend and current MIL employee, who recommended MIL as a great company to work for. I have always wanted to excel in what I do and decided to join MIL for a better opportunity. I started as an Invoice Analyst on the Department of State (DoS) invoices team, at the Diplomatic Security (DS)/CFO office. I gained a lot of experience and had the opportunity to grow in many different areas.

3. What are you working on now?

I am currently a Team Lead for invoices and reimbursements at the DS/CFO office in Rosslyn. In DS invoices, I oversee the invoice processing from start to finish by making sure invoices are paid within the 30-day mark according to the Prompt Pay Act. I am also currently participating in the IPP Pilot Program that DS is introducing for invoice processing, which will be replacing Metastorm. Similarly, in DS reimbursements, I am responsible for monitoring, checking, and controlling funds coming in from bureaus within DoS as well as outside agencies. I also reconcile financial data against the RM/BP Budget Support System to make sure the funds received have been allocated among the correct program offices.

4. What are the best aspects about your current job?

As a mother of four, I have family responsibilities that sometimes require prioritizing. MIL management, as well as our DS management, have continuously supported me in balancing my family and work responsibilities. Their flexibility makes me want to give my all to my career and job roles.

5. Why do you enjoy working at MIL?

I enjoy working at MIL because the dynamic opportunities presented allow me to strengthen my relationships with my colleagues. I love that MIL is family oriented – I was able to take advantage of enjoying the Spring Celebration at Kings Dominion Amusement Park with my family!

6. What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on at MIL?

The most challenging project was my transition to DS reimbursement, while working on the DS invoices Team Lead position during the busiest time of the year. I had to make sure my day-to-day duties were complete while I was having a hands-on training in DS Reimbursements.

7. What is the best piece of career advice you can offer someone in your field who is either applying to or beginning a career at MIL?

The best piece of career advice I can offer is to be positive and open to learn anything. Show interest in learning as much as you can, not necessarily in areas that you are interested in, because you never know when that knowledge could become handy!

8. If applicable, please share a memorable/significant experience that has occurred during your time with MIL.

My most memorable experience is the care and respect I received from my MIL family as well as the DS employees in the CFO office when I was expecting my fourth child. Although I was very busy training my coworker who would be replacing me when I am out for maternity leave, the deadlines needed to be met as well. The respect and the care I gained in the office kept me going until my due date!