In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Jesse Mishler to explore what it takes to build a thriving FP&A function grounded in purpose, people development, and strategic problem-solving. From military discipline to corporate finance leadership, Jesse offers a rare blend of operational rigor and emotional intelligence. His reflections on transforming real estate spaces, empowering teams, and navigating financial complexity will resonate with finance professionals and leaders alike. This episode dives into the evolving role of finance in shaping organizational culture, driving performance, and making workspaces more human-centered and impactful.

Jesse Mishler serves as Senior Vice President of FP&A at Carr Properties, where he oversees corporate forecasting, executive reporting, and strategic financial planning. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with over two decades of experience, Jesse brings a mission-driven mindset to FP&A leadership. He is known for building high-performing, people-first finance teams, championing cross-functional collaboration, and implementing innovative planning tools like JEDOX to drive operational efficiency. With a master’s in real estate from Georgetown University and a passion for continuous learning, Jesse’s leadership reflects both financial precision and personal authenticity.

Expect to Learn:

• How military principles like integrity and resilience translate to corporate leadership.
• What makes FP&A a strategic hub, not just a back-office function.
• Why developing people is one of the most fulfilling aspects of leadership.
• Key operational metrics in commercial real estate and how they guide decision-making.
• The power of curiosity in becoming a better business partner.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "FP&A should be the hub of the company, connecting insights, strategy, and communication across the business." - Jesse Mishler
• "The most rewarding part of my job is seeing others grow and surpass even their own expectations."- Jesse Mishler
• "Sometimes the most impactful help you can offer takes less than five minutes, it starts with listening." - Jesse Mishler

Jesse shared powerful insights into how leadership, resilience, and curiosity can shape a successful FP&A career. He highlighted the importance of problem-solving over perfection, the value of building trust through authentic actions, and the transformational impact of investing in people. From leveraging real estate finance to fostering team growth, Jesse’s advice offers practical, inspiring takeaways for finance professionals aiming to elevate their strategic influence and lead with integrity and empathy.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

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Follow Jesse:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessemishler/

Company - https://www.carrprop.com/

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Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:58] - What Makes Great FP&A

[06:05] - Lessons from the Marines

[09:01] - FP&A as a Problem Solver

[12:36] - Why Real Estate Finance

[15:23] - Key Metrics in Real Estate

[18:41] - Choosing & Using JEDOX

[22:54] - Developing People in FP&A

[30:41] - Leadership & Trust

[36:26] - No.1 Technical FP&A Skills

[41:02] - Favorite Hobby

[47:08] - Closing Advice: Be Curious