At Technology from Sage our purpose is to support libraries in advancing teaching, learning and research. We can’t achieve this mission without the work of the talented team at Technology from Sage, so we’ve launched a series of posts for you to find out more about the team.
In this Meet the Team post, we’re joined by Jessica Clemons, the North America Sales Director at Technology from Sage. Read on to find out more about Jessica.
1. Tell us about joining Technology from Sage and your experience beforehand:
I began my career as a science librarian and thought I’d always be in libraries. I feel that is still true while working and serving libraries from the vendor side. I loved learning about all the different areas of librarianship, helping students, and engaging with faculty.
2. Can you tell us a bit about what you do at Technology from Sage?
I’m leading the North American sales team to grow awareness of Technology from Sage and help customers deliver best in class, student-centered solutions. I get to talk to many different librarians about their strategic priorities, how they are providing value to their organization, and work with them to accelerate their vision.
3. What excites you most about your work at Technology from Sage?
So many things! I think I have some of the best colleagues who are talented, professional, and a lot of fun. We are strengthening and growing our partnerships with other vendors and that kind of collaboration is much needed. Most importantly, I am fortunate to be able to connect with so many different academic librarians who are working so hard to deliver the best services to their patrons, wherever they may be.
4. How have you been putting Technology from Sage’s strategy and values into action?
It seems like every year there is always a new “threat” to the academic library. Our solutions help librarians deliver on their core mission of access and engagement in modern ways, all while elevating the impact that the library can have.
Librarians are our focus and we want to help their work to be more impactful, engaging, and connected across the teaching and learning ecosystem. I’ve been connecting with many engaged and forward-thinking librarians who have the ability to see where they need to be in order to adapt to changing student and faculty needs.
Our solutions help librarians deliver on their core mission of access and engagement in modern ways, all while elevating the impact that the library can have.
5. What’s the best day you’ve ever had at work? Is there a particular project or milestone you are proud of?
There are so many examples to choose from here! In sales, it is usually when you hear a “yes” from a customer who wants to use our solutions to solve the problems they have and help their patrons. But realistically, my best day is any day where I’ve been able to help my colleagues, help customers, and take the time to be grateful for the opportunities that I have.
6. What three things are always on your desk?
A Notepad, a coaster my daughter made for me and tinted lip balm.
7. What’s the best book you’ve read recently and why?
In Love by Amy Bloom. I love her writing in fiction because it is filled with strong females living lives that are complicated and honest. In Love is a work of non-fiction that painfully and beautifully describes the loss of her husband to Alzheimer's. I can’t get it out of my head or my heart.
8. Is there a quote or mantra that you live by? What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?
I try and tune into my inner Yogi with a daily affirmation app. I like the variety and it helps to positively adjust my mindset and approach the day ahead with an open heart and a sense of joy.
9. It’s your day off. What do you have planned?
I love this question because I’m a planner! I’ll want to take care of my growing menagerie of pets and farm animals, go for a hike or bike ride, make a treat with my kids, and play some games as a family. And perhaps I’d end the day with a gorgeous cocktail.
10. If you didn’t work at Technology from Sage or in your current role, what would you want to do?
Working to advance higher education is where I find the most reward and I hope that I’ll always be able to do that. But, if I had to pick something else, I think it would be fun to be a brewmaster and make delicious craft beers for everyone to enjoy.
