Our very own Felicia You started her career in sales before taking the road less traveled as an Owner/Operator Driver for Budd Van Lines. However, as you know, each road has many exits and Ms. You recently traded in her blue collar for a white one when she joined our corporate office as Director of Business Development, Northeast Region.
We recently spoke with Felicia (Fee) to discuss this exciting new chapter in her life.
How long were you on the road for Budd Van Lines (BVL) and in what capacity?
Owner operator/ Team driver “Co-driver” for 3 years.
What was your favorite aspect of working with relocation clients?
To be part of such a life changing event for them. You learn a lot about a family when you are in their home and to hear their stories about their memories and heirlooms is such a gratifying experience. My favorite is seeing their new homes and being able to be part of their new chapter. I’m still friends with many of my customers.
What is/are the key(s) to guaranteeing a successful move?
Communication, transparency, honesty, and having our customers involved in the process. I would show my customers how I was packing their fragile items, wrapping their furniture, and how their stuff was being loaded onto the trailer. This always provided them with peace of mind during a stressful life event.
What was your prior work experience before becoming a driver with BVL?
I was a sales manager for an IT company, started off managing sales teams in the medium to large business sector and then managed a tenured Public Sector Division (total of 6 years). 3 years as a corporate Field sales executive for IT, specializing in large business sectors.
How will your experience as a driver help you in your new role?
I understand the complexities and sensitive aspects of the operational side, dealing directly with our customers as well as our inside teams. From house prep, packing, wrapping of furniture, inventorying, loading, driving, delivering, paperwork compliance, and overseeing the whole job gives me a clear understanding of what it takes to have a successful move. Working firsthand with our customers makes me compassionate, understanding, and respectful to our customers. Moving is one of the most stressful times people experience and I always looked at it as it’s my job to take the stress away and make the move a seamless, positive experience.
What are you looking most forward to in your new role?
Bringing my experience as a driver/ mover to the table. Positively impact and brand BVL in the Northeast. Become an influencer in our industry. Develop partnerships for the greater good of our industry.
We wish Fee great success in her new position and know her greatest achievements are yet to come.