The Journey and Impact of Chris McDaniel at vTECH io
Being an integral part of a team has been a resounding theme at vTECH io, championed by the Petersons. In this collaborative environment, key individuals embody leadership and teamwork, and one such figure is Chris McDaniel. As Vice President of Sales, Chris oversees revenue generation and the strategic selling of vTECH io’s products. He also takes on the role of Regional Account Executive, demonstrating his commitment to the ‘player/coach’ approach. His versatile responsibilities require a keen eye on industry trends, ensuring vTECH io aligns with customer demands. Additionally, Chris leads a team of Regional Account Executives, providing unwavering support to help them succeed and fostering the growth of future tech leaders. At vTECH io, our growth strategy has always focused on cultivating our own talent and leaders. Chris McDaniel is wholeheartedly dedicated to this mission, both personally and as a vital company objective.
Chris’s Path to vTECH io
Chris’s journey to vTECH io began while he pursued a job in another field and met David Peterson. Drawn to Mr. Peterson, who appeared out of place in a suit with a broken arm, Chris asked about the injury. David shared that he hurt it in a kite surfing incident. Chris, a risk taker himself, admired this trait in David. Though he might have enjoyed the other opportunity, he is pleased it worked out this way. Being part of the vTECH io team has become his passion.
This first encounter led Chris to an unusual onboard interview. He and his wife, Jennifer, were invited to dinner with the Petersons for KFC in their RV kitchen. Though funny at the time, Chris learned the Peterson family values humility. This situation tested Chris’s character, and he clearly passed because he has been with vTECH io since 2016. During Chris’s hiring, Mr. Peterson noted that Chris was not the smartest candidate but his people skills bridged the gap as sales are all about building relationships.
Working Hand in Hand
One aspect of this job Chris enjoys is working side by side with his wife. A former teacher, Jennifer started working over the summer with Chris. By assisting Chris in his sales functions, they doubled his performance within a year. Jennifer took on a permanent role at vTECH io, using her teaching experience to lead the Education Solutions.
Chris oversees three main objectives. His primary responsibility is to ensure profitability for the company. Secondly, he helps the sales team achieve their goals. Finally, with 50 to 60 of his own customer contacts, he spends significant time caring for his customers. He believes that “business transforms through technology” and wants that transformation for each customer.
Significant Milestones and Future Goals
Chris has accomplished many significant milestones throughout his career. One confirmation of his right path came when Mr. Peterson conveyed his trust, seeing Chris as the future CEO of vTECH io. Another rewarding moment was achieving double his original goals at the end of his 5-year plan as Vice President of Sales.
Reservations and Trends in the Tech Industry
Despite the excitement in the tech industry about AI, Chris has reservations about its growth. He believes it is overrated and likens it to the wild west with much uncertainty. Even with those reservations, he sees potential for improving what we offer to customers and accomplishing more work efficiently. A trend Chris is excited to see continue is businesses understanding the importance of Chief Information Officers and Chief Technology Officers. Previously viewed as an expense, IT departments are now recognized for their role in business growth. CIOs and CTOs are being offered a seat at the leaders’ table, giving them decision-making authority and allowing them to drive IT transformation for their companies.
Helping Baker County Serve Better
Of the many customers vTECH io has helped, the most significant to Chris is the Baker County Sheriff’s Department. vTECH io updated the entire IT infrastructure for emergency responders, including their ICE units and Federal Prison facilities. This has allowed them to excel at their jobs with trusted tech by their side. It even earned vTECH io a shoutout from Dell Technologies.
Farmers vs. Hunters
For future IT sales professionals, Chris advises understanding “if you are a farmer or a hunter.” He detailed this theory in an article for Tampa Florida company Sandler. Understanding your wiring and core personality traits determines your fit for this challenging role in sales. Managing existing business (farmer) or growing new business (hunter) plays a major part in your ability to succeed. Chris stresses the importance of always being a student and capitalizing on your work ethics for future success.
Living Every Day Like Your Last Day in Tech
As final advice, Chris suggests living every day like it will be your last day in the tech industry. Always evolving, this industry requires adaptability to avoid becoming irrelevant. Keep your standards high and your passion for work renewed. He attributes his success to his wife and their ability to work together, seeing vTECH io as much their company as it is David and Donna’s. Chris found the perfect career by accident, but it filled him with enthusiasm and a vision for the future.
If you would like to meet more of our key players and their roles here at vTECH io, look for our next blogs or reach out to us today. We can show you why we are so passionate about our work and its ability to help you grow your own company.