Stephen O. Richard.

• Author: Heffes, Ellen M.
• Position: Interview

Some guys have all the luck. Imagine working in a job representing a great love of your life--famous sports teams! Although Steve Richard originally set out to be an ice-hockey star, he's traded in his skates to manage finances for a pro basketball league.

Goes By: Steve

Title: Senior Vice President

Company: National Basketball Association (NBA); Professional Sports/Entertainment

Born: Newark, N.J.; Dec. 19, 1962

Spouse: Rhonda, for 4 years

Children: Sanaa, age 1

Education: BS, Accounting, Northeastern University, 1985; MBA, Finance, Columbia Business School, 1990

Career Summary: Deloitte & Touche, LLP, Senior Manager, New York, N.Y., 1985-95; AT & T, District Manager, Financial Planning and Analysis, Morristown, N.J., 1995-97; Citibank, Vice President and Regional Audit Director, Corporate Audit Group, New York, N.Y., 1997-98; National Basketball Association, Senior Vice President, Finance, 1998-present

FEI Chapter: New Jersey

Leisure: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, most of whom are "sports junkies," like me, so we share various sporting events. It's a way to bond and continue to grow together, and also a way to compete off the court, since our on-court abilities have diminished somewhat with age. I also enjoy sitting down with a good book, although the opportunity does not present itself as often as I'd like!

Time Management: I'm still trying to do it better. My biggest challenge is the work/life balance issue that most career-minded professionals face. Time management plays a significant role in achieving the right balance, which is different for everyone. I try to create new habits for myself--for example, scheduling a meeting with myself during selected days, so that I can focus on the work I must do. I've also tried to improve my ability to delegate. That not only frees up more of my time; it also gives important growth opportunities to members of my team.

Stress Management: I have a very strong mind/body connection, and I'm at my best when I feel my best. So I look for ways to stay in shape and keep it interesting. Over the years, I have been a triathlete (participating in Olympic distance triathlons), a marathoner (does one marathon qualify?) and general fitness nut. My latest endeavor is the martial arts, a form of body art that I find truly fascinating. I practice Shotokan karate with a Japanese master in New York.

Favorite Book: One favorite is The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey. I read it...