Can you share a bit about your background and what motivated/inspired you to join the Leafguard team?
I developed my passion for providing great experiences for people when I got my first job at the age of 13. After high school, I worked at Starbucks for several years and then worked for the wellness program at the YMCA. I was a gym member there and fell in love with their mission to promote healthier communities. I worked on programs such as diabetes prevention, as well as consulting and building fitness facilities at different employers in Washington. From there, I moved closer to my parents and began working in marketing and change management for the local ski resort. Post-pandemic business slowed, and around that time, Leafguard reached out to me.
I have always had a passion for leading people and being part of something meaningful. So, when I got the opportunity to be a Regional Event Marketing Manager, the role resonated with me.
How would you describe to your friends and family what it’s like to work here?
It’s fantastic, it’s just like a family. I’m remote, but I spend a lot of time in different offices, and it’s fascinating to see this perfectly orchestrated ant hill where everyone is running around to get precisely what they need. Then they’re out the door to install the product or handle the other projects they have for the day.
It’s interesting how this whole remote world works. I never once felt separate or anything like that. I work closely with my manager, the Director of Home Shows and Events, and I feel like it’s just another friend that I’m chatting with. You can stay connected in so many ways. Additionally, within our department, the level of autonomy provided by the company, with support, is remarkable. It’s a fantastic place to be.
Tell us about a professional success story that you’re proud of.
When I first joined, under the leadership of the Director of Home Shows and Events, we put together a five-year plan, and every pivot and success we’ve had is something the Director said would come true from the beginning. It’s incredible when you have a leader who has your best interests in mind, plus the experience to make it happen.
We’ve taken this program on from a couple of million dollars a year to what could be $60 million next year. And it’s not the dollars; it’s the number of careers that we’ve created for people. We now have 40 managers in different offices, which means 40 distinct career paths have been created. And it’s all because of a little bit of elbow grease and laser focus on what we set out to create.
What are some important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?
The quicker you can develop a genuine passion for people, the better off everyone will be. I’m into seeing people succeed, grow, and even fail, because I know that they can get up afterwards as well. It’s people that are going to make and break everything that you do, no matter what. And they’re going to solve all your problems and help push the mission forward. If you surround yourself with the right people, you can accomplish anything. People are my passion. One thing I always ask my team is, ‘What was the highlight of your day?’ We had a big meeting yesterday, and that was the icebreaker. If you can show that you genuinely care about a stranger, that goes a long way.
Do you have any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization?
Dig in when you find a slice of something that you enjoy within this organization, get to know it, and don’t let anything stop you from learning about it and achieving whatever you’re trying to do. This organization is highly supportive, and I believe anyone can grow within it if they have the desire, drive, and passion to achieve their goals. If you are passionate about something, you can achieve it here at Leafguard. No matter what angle you want to take, there’s something for you. If it doesn’t exist, then bring it up. It’s almost like a learning organization that constantly strives to develop and improve, understanding that many valuable insights can come from all levels of leadership. And don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for what you need.
