141 | Jeff Chu | The Path to Success Is Rarely Linear

In today’s show, Chris interviews Jeff Chu, Senior Manager, Customer Marketing, Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee. Apart from Mother Parkers, Jeff has worked in some of the world’s biggest FMCG organizations like Coca Cola, Campbell Soup, and Starbucks over the past decade and a half. 

Jeff was ambitious and driven even at a young age. As a student, he managed to finish his program at Wilfrid Laurier one term early while working multiple odd jobs. He shares some fond memories of his student days in this early segment of the show and reveals how the relationships he built here have helped him throughout his professional career.  

At Student Works, Jeff learned a whole gamut of skills ranging from interviewing to setting up systems and processes.  

This experience of his helped him get hired as an account executive at P&G where he worked for 3 years. In year 3, Jeff decided to try his hand at entrepreneurship. And he, in partnership with his sister, set up a wedding invitation business. After six months, Jeff decided to veer back to the same confounds of the corporate world as a National Account Executive with Coca Cola.  

After Coke, Jeff got hired as a senior manager, sales planning for another iconic organization, Starbucks. This segment of the show is particularly interesting as Jeff gives listeners a “peek” into the work culture and organizational practices at Starbucks.  In his last year at Starbucks, Jeff decided to work on the operational side as a district manager. Here, he reveals the lengths at which Starbucks goes to gives its customers the best possible customer experience. 

A former Starbucks executive poached Jeff for a short and admittedly cushy stint at Campbell Soup.  Hearing Jeff’s story will make listeners realize that the path to success is not a linear one. Taking calculated risks and venturing into the unknown is a must if you wish to progress at a faster clip. 

We wrap this show by sharing some critical attributes that truly define a leader of tomorrow. Topics discussed include adopting an inspirational leadership style, using a collaborative approach, the importance of continuous learning and humility.  

 We hope you enjoy this show! 

 

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