Meet Jennifer Vanlaanen | Head of Sales- with an understanding that the people are the most important part of the job

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Vanlaanen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?

Undoubtedly, one of the most pivotal decisions in my career was opting to leave a role that had been my professional home for 15 years. Throughout this tenure, I not only ascended through the ranks within the organization but also spearheaded various departments, including the launch of a new one, and led teams numbering in the hundreds. This journey was instrumental in shaping the leader I have become. Faced with the company’s relocation, I was presented with a choice: move with the organization or accept a severance package. After much deliberation, I chose the latter.

My tenure had been marked by deep engagement and significant achievements. I had amassed extensive knowledge of our operations, fostered strong relationships across the team, and earned a respected voice in major discussions—accomplishments that made my comfort and satisfaction in the role very apparent. Leaving this behind was not merely a career move; it was stepping out of a zone of profound professional fulfillment and comfort.

Embarking on a new chapter in a different industry, I found myself in the unique position of being the newcomer once again. This transition entailed not being the immediate “go-to” person, seeking guidance to grasp new concepts, cultivating fresh relationships, and striving to carve out a new influential space for myself among unfamiliar faces. This journey of reinvention and discovery, while challenging, has been incredibly enriching and exhilarating, offering a fresh perspective on my capabilities., and the confidence that allows me not to be stifled by familiarity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Throughout my career, spanning nearly a quarter of a century in leadership roles, I have been entrusted with the challenge of revitalizing underperforming teams, spearheading the creation of new departments, and, most importantly, nurturing and guiding exceptional leaders. The cornerstone of my professional journey has always been, and will continue to be, the people I’ve had the privilege to lead and mentor. Witnessing the evolution of a newcomer into a seasoned professional remains one of my most cherished experiences.

My influence has extended beyond the immediate confines of my teams, as I continue to offer guidance to individuals I’ve not worked with in years. This enduring impact is a testament to a consistent leadership approach I’ve adhered to, encapsulated in a playbook I’ve relied upon throughout my career. This playbook, steadfast in its principles, outlines how I support my team daily, clarifying my expectations and delineating the essence of my leadership style—what my team can anticipate from me.

I take immense pride in having created an environment where emerging leaders, irrespective of gender, feel empowered to embrace their authenticity, make decisions independently, and own their strategic vision. This nurturing approach has enabled women to assert themselves as formidable leaders and has encouraged men to cultivate empathetic communication and trust within their teams. This is a reflection of a culture where every voice is valued, and ideas are recognized as belonging to the team.

My direct yet team-centric leadership philosophy has been instrumental in fostering a culture of ownership, innovation, and mutual respect. The legacy I am most proud of is not just the professional milestones we’ve achieved but the profound and lasting impact on the individuals who have grown, flourished, and continue to inspire others in their professional journeys.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
oh great question!

In envisioning the perfect series of days, I’d start each morning with an energizing workout to set a positive tone. Following this, a visit to Vegan Deadly Sins would be on the agenda for some of the finest vegan-friendly boba—a delightful way to refresh and kickstart the day.

Taking a leisurely stroll downtown would come next, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the city’s vibrant energy and architectural beauty. For lunch, we’d be faced with the delightful choice between Plant Powered and Buddha Belly, each known for their exquisite plant-based cuisine, ensuring a culinary experience that’s both delicious and thoughtfully prepared.

After indulging our taste buds, we’d head back home for a bit of relaxation, perhaps unwinding with a few reality shows for some easy entertainment.

But the adventure wouldn’t stop there. We’d also plan day trips to further enrich our experience. A visit to Napa would offer an opportunity to enjoy world-class wines amidst picturesque vineyards, while a trip to San Francisco would not be complete without sampling the city’s famed sourdough bread. For a blend of adventure and natural beauty, a hike in Tahoe would be on our list, possibly followed by a visit to Harrah’s for a dash of gaming excitement.

We would find a place to take a yoga class, maybe drench ourselves in a sound bath, or just chill at my parents backyard at the pool.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

Reflecting on the individuals who have played a pivotal role in my professional journey, Myron J. Clifton invariably stands out as a figure of profound influence and inspiration. It was Myron who first recognized my potential and nurtured it with a blend of challenge and encouragement. He taught me the invaluable lesson of embracing my unique voice—encouraging me not to simply be loud in volume but resounding in the sharing of innovative ideas, and fearless in challenging the status quo.

Under his mentorship, I was gracefully ushered out of my comfort zone, embarking on a transformative journey as a leader. Myron’s approach was not about molding me in the image of others but rather empowering me to carve out my own distinctive leadership style. He entrusted me with the most formidable challenges within our team, a testament to his belief in my ability to not only recognize the latent potential in others but to also inspire them to see and believe in it themselves.

Moreover, Myron championed my growth by encouraging me to engage in upward coaching and navigate difficult conversations, all the while providing me with unwavering support. His mentorship was characterized by a profound belief in my capabilities and a constant encouragement to extend beyond the familiar confines of my role. Through his guidance, I learned the art of effective leadership—fostering a culture of open dialogue, innovation, and resilience. Myron J. Clifton’s impact on my career has been both transformational and enduring.

Instagram: jenvanlaanenveg

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifervanlaanen/