At TPx, our growth and success of our business can be directly attributed to the dedication and hard work of our employees. Every month, we like to take a moment and highlight some of the people on our team and the work they do that makes an impact on our business. This month, we would like to highlight Chris Ruane, Vice President of Direct Sales.
Chris has been with TPx for nearly 20 years working in the Sales organization. Her role has recently expanded to manage all direct sales for the entire U.S. footprint. She’s an experienced leader and technology enthusiast. Read on to learn more about Chris and her experience at TPx.
What does your role entail at TPx?
I oversee our Direct Sales team, and work with my six managers and their teams of business and enterprise business consultants to build relationships with prospects. Our goal is to become their trusted advisor and help them with their IT challenges. Sales is all about building relationships and helping companies solve problems. It’s about meeting with people, getting to know them, learning about what they do and how they do it, so that we can understand where and how we can help them. It is so satisfying when we design and implement a solution that addresses our customer’s needs and goals so well that they are thrilled with the results.
As a TPx employee for almost two decades, what is your favorite aspect of working here?
Definitely the people. There are so many wonderful people at TPx that are all working together to accomplish the same goals. The collaboration and support we provide each other to make those goals possible is amazing, and that teamwork helps us to provide a great customer experience. The TPx team is constantly evolving and thinking of new ways to address the needs of our customers – I love being part of an organization that’s always growing, changing and innovating! Because of the dedication and work of our employees, we can literally help every company big or small and across every industry!
How would you describe the culture at TPx?
There has never been a better time to be at TPx! We have amazing and supportive leadership and ownership that is invested in the success of TPx. Employees not only feel seen, but truly valued. As important contributors to the success of the company, that’s critical. Because we foster an inclusive and supportive environment at TPx, our employees are vested in the success of the company.
The Direct Sales team is growing, how would you describe your team dynamic?
I was recently promoted as Vice President of Direct Sales nationwide and now have the pleasure of working with a team of six amazing managers with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are a collaborative team of tenured and newer reps that bring a variety of backgrounds, knowledge, and skillsets to the table. The team works together and supports each other to drive our mutual success. It is satisfying to have worked with so many people for 5-16 years, watching their families grow and their professional skills develop. It is also equally great getting to know new people on the team and seeing their excitement as they learn, grow and see success.
How do you motivate your team?
Being a champion for my employees is so important – that means I’m here to support them, encourage them, and thank them. I’m grateful for my team and the work they do. That gratitude has a lasting effect and makes an impact on not just team dynamic but the work we do every day. My team knows that they have a champion in me and that I will do anything I can to help support them.
Why is mentorship important to you?
Gaining perspective from people that you trust is huge. To me, mentors are the people who believed in you, supported you, and helped you grow. I’ve been fortunate to have several amazing mentors throughout my career and who I am still in touch with today. As my career has progressed, I am trying to do the same and becoming a mentor for others.
What brings you the greatest satisfaction in the work you do?
My greatest satisfaction comes from seeing my team grow and achieve their goals. I enjoy building relationships with people, so when I can watch someone who I closely work with achieve personal and professional goals, it’s nothing short of amazing.
What has made the biggest impact on your professional life?
Having mentors that believe in me and support me has made a profound impact on my professional life. It’s their guidance and support that have really helped me develop my skills and advance my career.
What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to you and why is it important?
Growth and innovation can’t happen without new ways of thinking. Being part of a company that understands the importance around diversity, equity, and inclusion is so important. When you can have different people with different backgrounds and perspectives work together – that’s when the magic happens and ideas and solutions grow!
What’s the one topic you never get tired of learning about?
I love learning about anything new. I meet new people every day, and when they start telling me about something I don’t already know about, I want to know more especially if it’s something the person is really passionate and excited about.
What are you most passionate about outside of work?
I am really passionate about the relationships I build with people, so spending time with family and friends is important to me. I like to connect with the important people in my life by doing anything from walking to sharing a meal or going to an event here in the Napa Valley. And if someone is going through a rough time, I like to be supportive in any way I can.
How do you enjoy spending your time on the weekends?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends on the weekends. I’m fortunate to have my two children, now fully grown, live close by. It’s nice to get to spend time with them and go out and be part of the Napa Valley community.
Interested in being part of the team at TPx? Visit our Careers Page to learn more about our open positions.