Sarah Savela – Staff Accountant

In 10 words or less what do you do at the Saint Paul Port Authority?

“I work behind the scenes dealing with payments and investments.”

What about your job at SPPA motivates you to come to work in the morning and do what you do?

 “The Port does great work within the city of Saint Paul and around the state of Minnesota. I love the opportunity to be a part of that and I get to work on some amazing teams internally with some great people on a daily basis!”

How did you get here?

 “I’ve always been in the accounting industry specifically around the Twin Cities. I really liked working at non-profits because everyone seemed to care so much about their work. Once I found the Port I knew it would be a good place to stay long term so here I am!”

If you could have any other job for a day what and why?

 “Be a teacher! Since I was little I’ve always wanted to shape and mold young minds so they can have great futures.  I wouldn’t want to teach accounting or finance, more so preschoolers or kindergarten or 1^st grade.”

What are your future aspirations?

 “First, I would like to finish my bachelor’s degree in Accounting which I am currently working on, and after that just continue to grow within the accounting or finance department at the Port Authority.”

What would you say is the most challenging part about working in your field?

 “Money never sleeps so there is always something going on and things needs to be juggled as they come up. Since deadlines and timing don’t change you need to fit the chaos in where you can and make it happen.”

What piece of advice or education you received relates most to your work on a daily basis?

 “Don’t lose yourself in your work. You can love what you do but always make sure you take time for everything else you need like family, friends, etc.”

What is your favorite song of all time?

“My favorite song is “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey because it’s a sweet jam and everybody at least knows the chorus… it gets the people going!”