ACW is home to a vibrant community of channel professionals from across the country. We enjoy getting to know them at our in-person events and are happy to introduce you to them in this recurring Membership Matters Q&A. This month we’re getting to know Jennifer Savage, Channel Manager at TBI Inc., a connectivity and technology solutions provider.
Since starting her career in the channel, Savage has worked for a VAR, supplier and master agent – experience that has given her a broader perspective of every opportunity and contributes to her success helping partners. Throughout her career, she’s worked closely with agents and VARs and helping them succeed by delivering a range of technologies.
Why did you join ACW?
I joined ACW because I’m a firm believer that multiple minds are better than one, and I know that there is strength in women working together, supporting one another and mentoring. I’m also very passionate about involvement in social service and lending my voice and focus to encourage or serve anyone who needs the support.
What do you hope to get from and give to ACW membership?
I hope to serve on committees, help the group continue to grow and network with other women. I’m hoping to learn from veterans in the space especially tips for how to navigate the internal and external challenges that women face in channel sales and marketing.
Are you a committee volunteer?
Not yet, but I fully intend to be!
What do you get from participation in ACW?
Wow, what don’t I get? It’s so nice to meet with a group of ladies with the same focus, the same goals. In such a fast-paced industry, to be able to “let your hair down” and speak candidly is in itself very therapeutic!
What difficulty have you overcome that impacted your career for the better?
Ooh, this is a loaded question! About four years ago, I suffered a very unexpected and major life-altering injury. At the time, my recovery was frustrating. However, what I gained was a much greater and much more grounded perspective on my life, my family, my work, etc. I was constantly burning the candle at both ends without consideration for my health or mental capacity. Bluntly, I was not putting myself into the equation. It is very likely, that had I not experienced this, I would not have grown as a person, a woman, and in my career. Life-changing experiences tend to mature you quickly.
If you were to give yourself advice when you graduated from high school, what would it be? Take care of yourself; do not remove yourself from the equation. You matter.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work, I like to work out. I am an endurance runner (this is my favorite thing to do!), but my body does not like it right now, so I supplement with rowing, isometrics, and weights! I also enjoy rock climbing!
What is one personal and one professional goal you have in the next five years?
Personally, I want to deepen my relationships with my loved ones. I feel that this can only happen when I grow and ground myself as a person. Professionally, I always want to grow. I want to master my role and move into a leadership role. I also want to achieve master’s degrees in business administration and organizational behavior.