Say hello to Shannon Hill – a busy customer service representative who has been with West Pak Avocado since early 2018. She came to the company with customer interaction experience in her previous role as a bank teller. In her current position, Shannon’s responsible for entering orders and making sure accounts run smoothly so the company maintains the best possible customer relationship.
Describe your daily responsibilities/activities:
SH: Every day I start by talking to Vice President of Sales and Business Development Joe Nava promptly at 6:45 am. I generally come in and begin with emails and then help Joe send out weekly pricing. From there, I enter and revise orders throughout the day and have correspondence with all of Joe’s customers daily. Also, I back up our Sales department when needed for order entry.
I also work closely with our planning and supply chain department to ensure we have the fruit availability. On occasion, I help make appointments for our logistics department for some customers plus attend inventory meetings two times a week.
How do you incorporate West Pak principles and values into your job?
SH: We support each department as a team. Communication through all departments is key. Since we are a customer-orientated company, my role allows me to work closely with so many different customers in so many other areas.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
SH: Filling last-minute orders. Buyers will drop in last-minute changes for increasing or decreasing orders already in the system. Sometimes that fruit has been conditioned and can’t be revised. That causes a ripening issue and a possible age issue.
What is the best aspect of your role?
SH: My co-workers! We have such a great atmosphere. I am able to work with other departments through West Pak to get experience.
What is your favorite part about working in the avocado industry?
SH: Free avocados! I’ve been able to attend tradeshows and meet so many people in this industry. I’ve learned so much about avocados that I even have my husband checking avocado brands at the grocery stores.
Tell us something interesting about you that you’d like to share.
SH: I love the sun! I enjoy spending time outdoors and love the summer months. If I could wear flips flops and shorts every day, I would.
Just curious – do you have avocado flip flops?
SH: Haha! I do not, but I may need to find those on Amazon
