Inspired by Veterans and Military Families Month — this spotlight series celebrates the diversity which drives our success, fosters strong values, and uplifts every individual to become the collective heart of Annalect culture. Join us in recognizing the talent, inspiration, and valuable insights contributing to our vibrant and inclusive community.
Tell us about your role at Annalect.
I specialize in Taxonomy Governance on our Data Quality team, part of our larger Marketing Intelligence organization. We work with clients to create and maintain a strong, robust system of taxonomy governance — with the goal of reaching and maintaining above 95% taxonomy compliance across channels and platforms.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I go to the beach, swim, camp, and read. All my kids’ hobbies have basically become my hobbies by default.
What is your proudest professional achievement?
My proudest professional achievement was creating and maintaining a physical security plan for the NOSC/Marine Reserve Center, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
On July 16, 2015, an armed terrorist crashed through the gate of the reserve facility, walked into the building, and began shooting at the sailors and Marines inside. He killed four Marines and one sailor. I was given orders to move to Chattanooga and take the position of one of the fallen Marines.
Upon arrival, I was tasked with overhauling the security plan, with the specific goal of hardening the facility against future active shooter attacks. Over the course of a few months I restructured the security plan, and successfully procured funding for physical security upgrades (such as Mass Notification System, anti-ramming fencing around facility, ballistic windows and other measures). Additionally, I made changes to the Security Standard Operating Procedures and Random Anti-Terrorism Measures (RAMs) for the Marines to harden their posture during daily operations.
All of these security upgrades and changes to SOP resulted in our facility being named “The Standard” for security plans throughout Marine Corps Forces Reserve, and most importantly, prevented any future tragic incidents.
In celebrating Veterans and Military Families Month, who or what is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration are the Marines and service members who still go out every day and give 100% in service to their country … those that volunteer for the hard assignments and make a positive impact.
What message do you have for Veteran colleagues, who may be early in their career and looking to grow into positions of leadership in their schools, workplaces or communities?
Be humble. No matter what you’ve accomplished up to this point, humble yourself as you would when given a new military assignment. Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t know what you don’t know. Ask questions and seek opportunities to learn and make yourself more valuable to your team and community. Continue the tradition of service. Be a servant leader.