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From InTouch Magazine Spring 2019 Issue

JIM VERSICAL

Sales Manager, 365 Retail Markets

B.B.A. Western Michigan University
Executive Forum 2017, EDP 2018, ELN Tradeshow Advisory & Events Liaison


How did you get into the convenience services industry?
By accident! In 2012, I was working in Human Resource Management (I wasn’t enjoying it) and I was looking for a different opportunity. One of my best friends had just started working at 365 Retail Markets and recommended me for an administrative assistant position. The rest is history!

Give us an overview of your role and key responsibilities.
I manage a team of U.S. sales reps. I’m responsible for the planning and execution of our sales strategy.

What are the skills you use most in your career?
The skills I use most include problem-solving and communication. Working in technology sales, we often refer to ourselves as solution experts. Our customers come to us with unique challenges — it’s our job to find the perfect solution.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges you face in your business?
It can be difficult to find the right talent in periods of hyper-growth. Our business / industry is unique in the sense that MicroMarkets only became mainstream a few years ago — many potential candidates are still unfamiliar with the technology.

What are the greatest opportunities?
Technology always presents opportunities to automate, innovate and to disrupt the status quo. As the industry continues to embrace innovation, I predict we’ll continue to see shifts in the way we perform our jobs.

What are you looking forward to at the NAMA Show 2019? (if applicable)
I’m looking forward to getting to spend some face time with my clients, fellow ELN members and the show attendees. The NAMA Show is something I personally look forward to every year.

Moving forward, what are your personal / professional goals?
Professionally, I’m looking to expand my industry knowledge. Our clients run diverse businesses and I want to make sure that I’m staying relevant to their needs.

Tell us about the most memorable work experience you’ve had. 
Every year during the holiday season, 365 adopts a local family. We purchase toys, clothes, furniture and furnishings for a family in need. Last year, we filled an entire truck with gifts! The happiness that our team is able to bring to our local community is something that I’ll never forget.

What advice would you offer young people starting their careers in this industry?
This quote for Richard Branson has always stuck with me: "If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!" — Richard Branson

What’s a favorite piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your professional career?
“If it feels wrong — it probably is wrong.” It’s so simple, but it’s often true. Go with your gut. This advice was given to me early on in my career and it’s helped me become a great sales professional and manager.

As an ELN member, in your own words, what is the value of participating in group?
The networking opportunities that are available through ELN are outstanding! I’ve made some excellent business connections and some great friends.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I’ve been playing drums for over 12 years. Playing music has allowed me to work/meet many amazing musicians from all over the world. During college, I played in a band that opened up for Mike Posner.