Soules Spotlight

Cavender’s CFO Calls Soules College a “Blessing” for Students

ThompsonCavender’s is a specialty retailer of western and work footwear, apparel and accessories. Founded in 1965 by James R. Cavender with a single store in Pittsburg, Texas, the company has grown to 89 stores in 12 states. Learn more about the relationship between the­ company and college in the following question and answer segment featuring Cavender’s CFO Jim Thompson. 

Thompson has served as CFO since 1998. He has over 30 years of financial professional experience in public and private company environments and has worked in retail, wholesale distribution and public accounting.

How did your/the company's relationship with the Soules College of Business begin?

The company’s relationship with the Soules College of Business began over 10 years ago with Gail Johnson and our participation in the mock interviews program and business etiquette lunches.

We have several UT Tyler alumni working for Cavender’s. We do not have a formal internship program yet, however, we have used interns from UT Tyler from time to time in the past. We have been very impressed with the UT Tyler graduates who work for Cavender’s. They are passionate about the organization, hard-working employees and technically prepared to work for us.

Why get involved in the Mock Team Interviews event and give back in this way? 

We are East Texas born and based, and it is important to support the local educational institutions in the community. They are the foundation of our workforce. Personally, I think that any program that exposes a student to the real-life experience of interviewing for employment before graduation is extremely important and will possibly give them an edge to be successful through the process. If they are aware of what to expect before entering the application and interviewing process, they will be more comfortable and relaxed, providing potential employers a better view of their skills, attributes and competencies.

Many business schools do not offer this kind of program to their undergraduates. Students at UT Tyler are blessed to have this and should be very appreciative of the experience.

What do you like best about UT Tyler and the Soules College of Business?

The professionalism of the faculty with a personal, almost family-like touch – and their focus on teaching students and supporting their success.

What career advice would you give UT Tyler students?

Study and work hard, and follow your passion. You won’t achieve your maximum potential unless you are passionate about what you are doing and who you are working with.

What are your hobbies/interests?

I enjoy spending time with family, reading, working on our small farm and being involved in other community organizations.

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Thompson and his wife have been married for 37 years. They have two children, a daughter who is a higher education communications director in the Texas A&M system and a son who is an Army ranger. The couple recently welcomed their first grandchild, who is “the love" of their lives.

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Read more from the May 2021 issue!