How long have you been with Morbern and in what roles?
I began work at Morbern in 2011 as the National Operations Manager and moved into the role of Director of Global Operations in 2018 as our business expanded internationally.
Why work for Morbern? What makes them stand out?
Morbern has been an industry leader for decades and it carries that passion for growth and innovation today. I had the opportunity to combine my sales and operations experience in my roles, and I’ve relished the opportunity to provide comprehensive support to our hard-working sales agents in the field.
How do our products stand up to the competition?
High quality and locally manufactured (Canada) are some of the most common talking points I hear from our customer base. When quality and sustainability are a focal point of our products, that matters to our customers.
Do you have a favorite Morbern product? Tell us what it is and why you like it.
The operational side of me says my favorite product is the one with the most inventory turns! I’ve had the great fortune of seeing groundbreaking products such as Allante Free, and more recently Evohide, be introduced to the markets. It’s been exciting to see those become household names since their launches.
Where do you call home?
Jamestown, N.C. It is a small suburban community just outside Greensboro, N.C. where we are two hours from the mountains and three hours from the beach. It’s about as “perfect” a location as there is for a North Carolinian.
What can we find you doing when you’re not at work?
With a 17- and 13-year-old at home, my wife and I find ourselves immersed in all of their respective sports and academic activities. I try to find time to enjoy a round of golf here and there, and my wife and I enjoy being outdoors with our two dogs, Tot and Rudy.
Can you tell us about a fun, or funny, time during your tenure? Any remembrances you look back upon and laugh?
In the spring of 2012, we held a sales meeting in High Point and the last evening it snowed two to three inches. Two to three inches of snow might as well be two to three feet to most North Carolinians so of course, no one was in the office. I drove in to update the closure message on our phone line and walked in to see all the executive leadership from Cornwall. It was quite entertaining “explaining” how this weather shuts everything down in North Carolina to a group of Canadians.
What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received?
It wasn’t necessarily advice but a mantra to always be open, honest, and candid in everything I do. I carry this mindset in both my professional and personal life.
Who has been your greatest mentor?
While I have had the fortune of working alongside amazing leaders both past and present, my mother has had the most profound impact on my life. She handles adversity with grace and determination, all with a smile on her face. I try to emulate that each day.
What would you put on a billboard?
Perfection is unattainable. That is no reason not to strive for it today.
What are you currently reading?
I’m enjoying “Icons and Idiots” by Bob Lutz.
Every few years, I re-read “The Energy Bus” by Jon Gordon. In my humble opinion, this is a must read for everyone both personally and professionally.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I have successfully completed the Krispy Kreme Challenge in Raleigh, N.C. It was definitely a one-time event for me.
What habits have you purposefully developed (in business or in life) that have served you well?
Always be prepared. Whether that be for a meeting or the day in general.
What do you consider your greatest business accomplishment?
This probably sounds cliché, but I feel the most accomplished when those around me experience success. Fortunately, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing many people around me succeed throughout my career. It’s hard to describe the satisfaction when someone reaches a goal that they never thought was possible.