I just celebrated my 43rd birthday this past weekend, marking nearly two decades in what I consider my professional journey. Reflecting on this span of time, it's astonishing how swiftly it's passed, yet some memories from past jobs feel like chapters from another lifetime altogether.
My career began in the realm of safety, conducting inspections and leading training sessions. Predominantly immersed in the railroad construction industry, I spent countless early mornings traveling five days a week. However, a pivotal moment arrived when Brad Near persuaded me to explore sales—an unexpected shift that uncovered not only a latent talent but also a genuine passion for the field.
Over the years, I've traversed through various companies and encountered numerous managers. Remarkably, the catalyst for my departures often boiled down to issues with management itself. Here are just a few anecdotes from my professional odyssey:
One manager exhibited alarming behavior, resorting to physical and verbal abuse, including destructive outbursts like taking golf clubs to walls and hurling computer monitors through windows.
At another company, the president intentionally undermined my sales deals to evade his responsibilities, preferring to shirk work rather than engage in it.
Then there was a CEO who not only mistreated employees but also habitually deceived us with false promises.
Yet amidst these challenges, there were shining moments where exceptional managers stood out, offering unwavering support and guidance.
Coinciding with my 43rd birthday was my one-year anniversary at PandaDoc. What sets this experience apart is the consistent excellence of the management team. Throughout my tenure, I've had the privilege of working with four different managers, each bringing their unique strengths to the fore. What truly astounds me is their genuine investment in my success, going above and beyond to ensure I thrive.
In a career spanning two decades, encountering four consecutive exceptional managers is a rarity. It's one of the many reasons I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the PandaDoc family.
Partner, Chief Investment Officer at Omnia Family Wealth
1moWe’re so excited to have you !