The people behind the numbers
Hunter Anderson had just landed his first professional job when the world changed.
A Navarre native, Hunter joined Lakeview Center on Jan. 21, 2020, fresh out of Florida State University with a degree in finance. Just weeks later, COVID-19 disrupted workplaces across the country, creating new challenges and accelerating change throughout the organization. What could have been an overwhelming start became an unexpected opportunity.
“I think the best way to learn and to grow professionally,” Hunter said, “is to take on something that is challenging and that you may not have had experience in.”
Six years later, Hunter serves as a senior financial analyst and has become one of the people others turn to when they need answers.
A go-to person
Today, Hunter supports everything from budgeting and contract management to audits, billing and reporting.
Over the years, Hunter has become a go-to resource for program leaders, colleagues and community partners. Often, the questions sent his way aren’t even finance-related.
“Typically I do know where to go,” he said. “And if I don’t, then I’ll figure it out.”
That willingness to find answers is one reason so many people rely on him.
“He goes above and beyond each and every day,” said Angie Brewton, director of finance. “He is the go-to person for leaders across Lakeview Center and LifeView Group.
Since joining our team, Hunter has supported major initiatives that expanded Lakeview Center’s behavioral health services, including the launch of our acute care services and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic.
Angie Brewton has seen that growth firsthand.
“This past year, he started working one day a week in the business office to help ensure our electronic health record system and Oracle are aligned correctly,” she said. “He added this to his plate without taking any responsibilities off his plate. He has grown so much over the years.”
Hunter credits much of his development to mentors and teammates who were willing to share knowledge, answer questions and challenge him to think differently.
“I really do rely on our clinicians and our team members to guide me and help develop the process,” he said. “I trust everyone’s opinion, and I think everyone has ideas.”
More than spreadsheets
One project Hunter is especially proud of involved creating tools to help leaders plan staffing for 24/7 programs. While the work required data and analysis, he remains focused on the people behind the numbers.
“You’ve got to take into account the human aspect,” he said. “It’s more than spreadsheets.”
That philosophy reflects Hunter’s approach to his work. While he doesn’t provide direct services, he sees a clear connection between the systems he supports and the people who ultimately benefit.
“First and foremost, the mission’s good,” he said. “It feels good to help people. I know I don’t directly service individuals, but knowing what I do helps the organization and ultimately helps the clients — it’s satisfying.”
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