As the inside sales and support manager for Entec Polymers in Orlando, Fla., Ann Suescum supports the team's commercial salesforce and empowers them to utilize digital systems to achieve their goals while also assisting during all stages of the sales process.
Suescum's team of 14 includes a supervisor, leads, account assignments, systems subject matter experts and trainers, sales support and inside sales. The commercial development program trainees join Suescum's department during their time in the Orlando office to start their foundational learning as they prepare to become field sellers.
Suescum graduated from the University of Houston with a bachelor's degree in information systems technology and a minor in graphic communications. She joined Ravago Group — Entec is a member of Ravago Group — as a customer service representative for Entec and has held various positions that have allowed her to partner service with technology.
"My prior roles include commercial systems manager, customer service supervisor, sourcing coordinator and more," she said. "During my time with Entec, I also built a support department to aid our business with operations and commercial needs. It started with me assisting one trainer and has grown to the 14 people we have today. My most notable achievements have been to help onboard our company on various new systems from CRMs [customer relationship management] to ERPs [enterprise resource planning]."
Suescum is inspired by the challenges that arise and is motivated to provide solutions. Her determination and grit keep her hyperfocused on the task at hand.
Her current challenge is launching an inside sales team and building it from the ground up.
"I'm lucky that Entec Polymers has allowed me to operate with an entrepreneurial spirit that is at the heart of our company," she said. "This allows me to utilize my creative side to think outside of the box and find creative solutions to problems. I am the happiest when I'm able to help and motivate others."
Other than being a mother, Suescum said her greatest achievement has been her continuous desire to help others.
"It is the core motivation that keeps me inspired in my personal life and at work. I am passionate about mentoring our people and cultivating a work environment where team members perform roles that allow them to apply their greatest strengths daily. … During my 13 years with Entec, one of my greatest successes is reaching the point where I'm recognized as a mentor by my coworkers and 'go-to person' for support or advice. This means so much to me," she said. "Work is where I spend most of my time away from my immediate family, and I view my colleagues as an extension of them."