Meet the speakers at this year’s Continuity Insights Management Conference, then click here to learn more about the 2023 event.
Ann Pickren
Onsolve
When did you know you wanted this job?
From the moment MIR3 and CodeRED merged to form OnSolve, our mission has been aligned to helping protect people, places and assets. How often does one get the opportunity to do what they enjoy – working with people – and take that to the next level to really make a difference? Our risk intelligence and critical communications technology helps find missing children, gives people advanced warnings so they can take steps to protect their livelihoods, and ultimately, helps save lives.
How did your earlier career choices lead you to where you are now?
As an application developer early in my career, I learned quickly that I love the mix of solving a problem and helping a business function – and leveraging technology is a great way to combine those objectives. My most important career choice came when I took the leap of faith to join Comdisco to lead their regional consulting for Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Services. Joining a company that had a very defined mission I believed in has led me precisely to where I am today.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received came from my Dad, who was insistent that we understood the importance of building and sustaining relationships through thick and thin. My Dad would simply say “Never burn a bridge with anyone. Regardless of whether you find it difficult to work with them, one day you might cross their path again. You will want them to remember you for your grace and the respect you show to others.”
What impresses you the most when you are considering hiring someone?
When I look to hire someone for my team, it’s essential the person enjoy interacting with people and bring a positive energy. I also look for strong communications skills and creative problem-solving, which go hand-in-hand. The first step toward fixing a problem is identifying it—and then digging deeper until a solution is reached. This involves having conversations and building relationships—it’s about people.
To learn more about Ann’s session and to view the full conference agenda, click here.
