Pete Chambers | 34
Supplier Finance Manager, Caterpillar Inc.
Pete Chambers has received consistent promotions in his seven years in the Corporate Treasury Department at Caterpillar, where he started as a financial analyst in 2015. Prior to that, he was employed by Deloitte Tax.
Additionally, he has been very involved in charitable efforts locally, most notably as treasurer and board member at BUILD Peoria, a local organization dedicated to raising funds for projects that better the community and leave a legacy for future generations. In addition, he has lent his time and talents to Easterseals Central Illinois and to Heart of Illinois United Way, for which he previously chaired the fundraising campaign for his department.
Pete also has served as a lead treasury recruiter for the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and on the Caterpillar Foundation Investment Committee. In all those roles, he has developed a reputation as a hands-on contributor known for getting things done.
Advice to 20-year-old self: “We’re often taught the phrase ‘work-life balance’ but I did not practice it early in my working career, succumbing to the pressures to put in more time at the office. I have made it my mission in my managerial positions at Caterpillar to flip that phrase on its head, to practice and preach ‘life-work balance’ (by) prioritizing the things that matter most in life: family, friends, faith, and personal passions.”
Social issues that fire him up: “I believe that everyone should have access to healthy, affordable food. I am saddened when I hear about Peoria’s struggles to combat food desert areas in town. However, I am thrilled that BUILD Peoria’s 2023 Project is supporting Market 309 by Peoria Grown, who are bringing healthy, affordable foods to these underserved areas of our community.”
Recommended book: “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink. This book questions the traditional business model of motivating others through external rewards. Daniel draws on scientific research on human motivation to challenge that approach and instead examines the three elements of true motivation: autonomy, mastery and purpose.”
Leadership definition: “I believe that a great leader leads by example but also provides an environment conducive for their mentees to blaze their own trail, follow their passions, and provide a connection to how their independent work benefits the greater good of the organization.”
What Peoria needs: “While not a physical amenity, I truly desire for Peorians to find a great sense of pride in their community. I often tell colleagues, friends and business visitors to Peoria that our town strikes the perfect balance of affordability, amenities, art and culture, and activities. I want people to love Peoria as much as I do and be a great advocate on her behalf.”
