Since joining CNF Technologies Corp. in 2015, Jonathan Garcia has been instrumental in executing business development strategies and project management for the San Antonio-based company, which provides technology-focused research and development to commercial, federal, and Department of Defense clients. As the chief financial officer, Garcia is responsible for CNF's financial functions including accounting, auditing, corporate finance and partner relations, while also extending his expertise to contracting, facility management and information technology. Garcia has also helped lead the company’s business expansion to Port San Antonio’s first specialized cyber-capable Project Tech, a research and development facility, while expanding the company to new locations throughout the nation. Prior to joining CNF, Garcia spent four years active duty in the U.S. Army from 2010 to 2014. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and is a Bronze Star Medal honoree.
What are the top three qualities of a great leader?
There are many qualities but the top three that come to mind are gratitude, learning agility and communication. The team as a whole is the heart of any organization.
What makes you a great leader?
A humble and appreciative leader is relatable and enables an effective leader. I believe I am effective in executing requirements, achieving goals, and enabling the team to be successful by following the three qualities previously listed.
How did you display leadership as the Covid-19 pandemic hit?
At CNF, employee satisfaction and well-being are at the forefront of all executive decisions. Within one week in March 2020, we transitioned the entire workforce from a traditionally in-house workplace to nearly 100% remote. We left our facilities open and fully running for folks to come in on a voluntary basis while mirroring the guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CNF quickly provided and ensured all the necessary resources for employees to be successful in a remote setting and has maintained constant and effective communication, while remaining open and considering feedback from all employees.
What are some diversity, equity and inclusion programs that you have implemented at your company?
We are champions of DEI. As a minority- and woman-owned small business, this is deeply embedded in CNF’s culture and we strongly believe in diversity, equity, and inclusion and take many steps toward promoting this through mentoring, internship programs and ensuring equity in pay and opportunity based on the experience and skillset an individual brings. We ensure continuous opportunities for all employees to advance in their careers and to eventually take on leadership roles if that is where they want to be. We also promote continued education through our education benefit and ensure all employees are aware of our open-door policy.
The Essentials
Career: Various positions, including program manager and CFO, CNF Technologies, 2015 to present; intelligence officer, U.S. Army, 2009 to 2014
Education: Bachelor's degree, political science, University of Texas at San Antonio
