Insights for the next generation of Tax Leaders

Mom. Certified scuba diver. Math enthusiast. Tax Analysis and Research Subcommittee member.

In brief

• Trailblazers in tax leadership embrace unconventional paths to find success.
• Jennifer Story, Vice President of Tax at CenterPoint Energy shares advice for aspiring leaders.
• She says that when approaching a challenge, have the belief that “there is always a way.”

Jennifer Story stepped into the role of Vice President of Tax at CenterPoint Energy in October 2022. Leading a tax function in today’s rapidly changing environment requires a trailblazer at the helm. Jennifer shares highlights from her Trailblazer journey and the insights she gained along the way.

Superpower – and optimism

Jennifer Story’s superpower is her resilience, a trait that she says has been a constant throughout her life. She says she approaches every challenge with the belief that “there is always a way.” This positive outlook has been her compass, guiding her through the difficulties of starting her family while in college and then rising through the corporate ranks, where she was often the only woman, not to mention young mom, at her level. Her ability to remain steadfast in the face of adversity is a testament to her strength, determination and perseverance, traits that she says have served her well both personally and professionally. As a leader, she strives to instill this mindset so that Tax at CenterPoint Energy is viewed as a thought partner and value driver in solving business issues.

Embracing unwanted projects

What may come as a surprise is Jennifer’s inclination toward thankless jobs. “I always looked for the kind of project that needed to get done but no one wanted to do,” she says. Her proactive approach to tackling these challenges head-on, she says, has not only contributed to her professional growth but also set her apart as a leader willing to step into the breach and focus on what the business needed.