In this week's REQ Consulting podcast, we welcome Alex Pomponio, an esteemed franchise owner, global sales manager of the year, and recruiting expert. Joining us for the "Meet the Team" series, Alex shares her inspiring journey and professional insights in a conversation with our intern, Sabrina Baker. This engaging interview continues the series on both our REQ Consulting blog and YouTube channel, showcasing Alex's vital role in maintaining our company's partnerships.

Hailing from Springfield, Massachusetts, Alex Pomponio has always embraced the challenge of expanding her horizons beyond her small-town roots. Her career began with a foray into cinematography at Ithaca College in Upstate New York. After two years, she decided to pursue her dream in Los Angeles, California, armed only with her car and a passion for being behind the camera. Over six fruitful years in Los Angeles, she accumulated experience in various casting and directing roles.

Returning to her hometown, Pomponio unexpectedly found herself in the hospitality industry. She accepted a sales position at a local hotel, a role that would soon become the turning point of her career. Despite having no prior hospitality experience, her dedication and talent quickly shone through. Within her first year, she was recognized as Manager of the Year, setting the stage for her future accomplishments.

Over time, Pomponio's initial perception of sales roles as "slimy" gradually transformed. She came to see these positions as opportunities to promote transparency and genuine value, aligning with products and services she truly believed in. Now, as a franchise owner and partner to Greg Ehlers at REQ Consulting, Pomponio reflects on her journey, stating, "The older you get, the more you see how much your skills transfer into your professional life." This insight underscores how the twists and turns of her diverse career have significantly contributed to her current success.

With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, sales, and recruiting combined, Pomponio is now focused on shaping the future of recruiting with a more human-centered approach rather than relying solely on AI like much of the industry. This shift aims to improve retention rates and strengthen the foundational values of companies. By combining her extensive experience with a continuous passion for learning, Pomponio has ambitious plans to contribute significantly to the growth of REQ Consulting. As an outstanding partner and a true asset to REQ Consulting, Alex Pomponio exemplifies the company's values and vision for the future.

Check out the full interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/7dhyFVeMi10