PPB September 2021

Connor Matthews Age 27 Sales Account Manager BrightStores Denver, Colorado I n 2016, Connor Matthews graduated from University of South Carolina where he earned a degree in business. He took a job in the IT staffing industry but wanted to move into software development and kept his eye open for the right opportunity. In March 2020, he found it. Just as the pandemic was causing havoc in companies around the globe, he joined industry business services provider BrightStores. “Since Day One, Connor’s commitment to learning and understanding our industry and our technology has been impressive,” says VP Tanya Ignacek-Sutton, one of 10 nominators. “Connor started with us the day before we unexpectedly left the office for remote working. He was so resilient to shift gears, acclimate to working from home, and go through training and onboarding from a distance.” She says none of these challenges slowed him down in his growth to learn about the industry and his new position. “He has embraced the promo industry and has worked diligently to understand the complex needs and nuances of our distributor clients.” Despite the challenges brought on by business closures, inventory shortages and quarantines, she explains that Matthews brought his enthusiasm and a positive, energetic attitude to work each day, always eager to learn and take on more. Even though he was the team’s newest member, he took ownership of ensuring that every client who reached out to BrightStores received a quick and helpful response. “He has quickly created relationships with clients, honed his industry knowledge and provided a consistent and competent frontline for our sales team,” she adds. Biggest challenge in the past year: The biggest challenge I faced was learning our software and the technical capabilities it offers—it was more or less wrapping my head around concepts that I have never been exposed to. Proudest career accomplishment: Being named a 2021 PPB Rising Star. Most optimistic about for the industry’s future: Since BrightStores is a technology company, I would say the most exciting aspect would be the increased need and interest for ecommerce solutions. Biggest concern for the industry’s future: Keeping up with technology. Inspiration: Family, friends and my work colleagues. I am very extroverted and I’m always in contact with these people. They push me to succeed. To accomplish in the next 24 months: In the next couple of years, I want to continue to grow my technical knowledge when working with our systems. Personally, I would love to own a home/townhome in the future. Ideas to recruit and retain more young talent: Have flexible, remote capabilities; stay competitive in pay and offer great benefits. Best advice for them: Maintain a positive mindset because you will experience peaks and valleys. Don’t give up! FEATURE | Rising Stars 22 | SEPTEMBER 2021 |