Meet Jenna Naylor, a luminary at JAS Charleston, whose journey from a customs entry writer to an award-winning business development manager represents the boundless opportunities for growth within JAS.
Jenna’s path into logistics was more serendipitous than planned. Initially set on a career in journalism, envisioning herself as a frontline reporter or news anchor, she pursued this track through her college studies. However, a pivotal moment a month before graduation saw her reevaluating her aspirations. “I understood the communications industry, I had success in my work in college, but I didn’t want to be a reporter anymore,” she reflects. So, in what many can describe as “typical Jenna fashion,” she embraced change and dared herself to explore new uncharted waters, literally.
As fate would have it, her first post-college interview landed her a role at a logistics company, where she started as an ocean import specialist. After mastering this role in 1 year, she eagerly transitioned to export, driven by her innate thirst for new challenges.
In 2014, Jenna joined JAS as a customs entry writer, eventually expanding her responsibilities to manage the Charleston branch's air imports while also diving into the intricacies of the quoting process. Her growing expertise across various domains fueled her hunger for growth. “I had worked in customs entry writing, ocean import, ocean export, air import, and quoting. So, I asked myself again, what can I do next?”
Fueled by her desire to tackle new challenges, Jenna set her sights on sales, leveraging her deep understanding of JAS’s services. Her dedication was unmistakable as she pursued and earned her customs brokerage license, underscoring both her ambition and JAS's commitment to nurturing internal talent. She continued her path of success, earning new business and slowly growing her client base.
In a proactive sales approach, Jenna launched the #JavawithJenna series on LinkedIn, leveraging her communication background to attract new audiences and generate leads, flipping the traditional cold-calling approach on its head.
Now, in her newly acquired role as the Head of Country Sales for the Automotive Vertical, Jenna continues her quest for growth, always seeking the next challenge to conquer.
In her nearly ten years at JAS, Jenna has flourished in an environment that she describes as eclectic and welcoming—a true melting pot of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. She credits the unique culture of JAS for fostering an environment where collaboration and growth thrive.
Jenna's leadership style is marked by patience—a quality she believes is integral to navigating the complexities of the logistics industry. Her mentor, Brandon Miller, Vice President of Automotive Sales - Americas, has played a pivotal role in shaping her journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and passion in achieving success.
Looking ahead, Jenna's focus is on expanding the automotive vertical, a challenge she embraces with enthusiasm, of course. She finds fulfillment in the dynamic nature of logistics, a field that demands constant learning and adaptability. Her advice to aspiring salespeople echoes her own journey: always be closing, challenge yourself to grow, and find joy both in and outside of work.
Jenna Naylor's story embodies the spirit of Women@JAS, showcasing not just her individual achievements but also the collective strength and support that define the JAS culture. Congratulations, Jenna, on your well-deserved recognition as JAS USA’s 2023 Salesperson of the Year and the #1 Global Business Development Manager Earner. Your journey inspires us all to reach greater heights and embrace every opportunity for growth.
Great story, Jenna! I love your advice: always be closing, challenge yourself to grow, and find joy both in and outside of work.