By Chris Rapozo — Jan 12, 2023 11:00 AM
What do you do at Hannon Hill?
I am the Services Project Manager, meaning that whenever we receive a project for our professional services team, I work as the liaison between our clients and our developers.
I ensure that we set proper client expectations and complete projects on time. During a project cycle, I stay in touch with our customers, provide updates and ask questions to ensure a satisfactory outcome from the start of the project all the way through the handoff demo and user acceptance testing phase. Some of these projects include website redesign implementation for new and existing clients.
What did you do before working at Hannon Hill?
After I graduated with a Management degree from Georg
ia Tech, I worked in sales for about five years. Knowing I didn't want to work in sales for the rest of my life, I found a Client Advocate position for our Success Team in 2015, applied, and thankfully got the job. A few years into the job, I transitioned into my current role as the Services team's Project Manager.
What has been your favorite project at Hannon Hill?
There are several projects I've enjoyed working on, as I love working with our clients. One "project" that stands out, which isn't really a project, but more of an event, is our annual Cascade User Conference. I've helped with some of the planning in the past. I like it when our whole team, both the in-office and remote Hannon Hillers, get together. And it's always fun to see clients we've been working with all year.
What advice can you give someone who just started their career?
Building relationships is one of the most important things. Set the right expectations with co-workers and clients from the onset of a project. I always say, "people don't mind negatives, but they don't like surprises."
Let's say a project goes differently than planned and may not finish on an expected date; let clients know early. Clients are usually pretty understanding when you tell them as soon as you know about a potential delay, especially when you've built rapport and a relationship with them.
Problems usually arise when people don't communicate, and a client has to reach out to you about their project. That's why we strive to walk alongside our clients during their projects every step of the way and keep them informed.
What is your favorite place you have ever visited?
My favorite places are the Rocky Mountains in Jasper, Banff, and Yoho National Parks in Canada. My dad is from Canada, and my family lives a few hours away from those spots, so I grew up visiting them and absolutely love it there. But I also treasure the beach and never say no to the opportunity for a beach trip with my dogs, Dexter and Archie, to the Florida Panhandle.
What's your favorite quote?
We've all heard the saying that "comparison is the thief of joy," and it's true! That is why I try to follow Amy Poehler's advice on:
"The earlier you learn that you should focus on what you have and not obsess about what you don't have, the happier you will be."
It's a game-changer if you think of it. This quote will put your mind at ease, help you become content with what you have, and it is something I try to teach my class during yoga sessions as well.
What is your biggest motivator?
I'm pretty self-motivated and competitive by nature. My biggest motivator is staying true to myself and the expectations I put on myself each day. I'm the type of person who, when I say that I'll do something, I will do it.
What do you do for fun?
I spend a lot of time working out at the gym and practicing and teaching yoga. In fact, I teach yoga every Wednesday at the Atlanta Tech Village, the building in which Hannon Hill resides. I also love spending as much time outside, whether that's at the park with my dogs, at the beach, or drinking margaritas on a patio! Traveling and photography fill my cup.
