Meet Rave’s Head of People: Jennifer Taylor (JT)
Jennifer Taylor joined Rave in November 2021 as the Head of People Operations. Prior to joining Rave, Jennifer (JT) held leadership roles in both talent and human resources for companies like RSM, NantHealth, and SQA Group. JT is an experienced and strategic People Operation’s leader with a demonstrated history of successful implementation of full cycle talent journey initiatives.
She is a trusted advisor and coach, possessing a passion for data driven, people oriented programing for the organizations she serves. At her core, JT believes in authentic relationships, collaboration, and empowering teams and organizations to drive growth.
1. Where did you grow up and how did you end up at Rave Mobile safety?
I grew up on Whidbey Island, off the coast of Washington State. I was introduced to Rave via Bill Price, our CFO.
2. Where do you see opportunities for growth and advancement within Rave?
Rave is an incredible company with a deeply committed team at every level of the organization. I see growth and advancement clarity as a core tenant of a high performing organization. We need to understand, in equal measure, how we are making a difference today, and what opportunity exists to work outside our comfort zone. Skill and leadership development, opportunities to work cross functionally, excellent and transparent communication, and clarified career and promotion paths, all work together to continue to inspire our people to do all they can do today, for themselves and Rave.
3. What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
Authentic, courageous, empathetic
4. What one word would best describe your leadership style?
Service
5. What has been the biggest challenge for you in your role throughout this pandemic?
The biggest challenge hands down is the balance between making sure everyone is okay, with the very real need to move our business strategy forward. It requires brave conversations, creating safe space for emotion and overwhelm, and being committed to our people in a holistic way. This pandemic has been so hard on our people, and they show up every day, helping us accomplish the great work that makes Rave such an asset in our industry.
6. What are you most excited about working at Rave?
That the work ahead lights me up. I really enjoy working with amazing people and look forward to collaborating on the creation of a total Rave experience, for our customers and our employees.
7. If you could travel anywhere right now, where would it be?
Everywhere! Top on my immediate list is Croatia, Costa Rica, and the Redwood Forest.
8. What is your favorite book?
Personally, I loved Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I read it as a little girl and just fell in love with the story. Professionally, I just finished reading “Be Calm” by Jill Weber, PhD, an amazing and practical book on managing anxiety, and last year I read Dare to Lead, by Brene Brown, I admire Brene quite a bit and enjoy her books, podcasts, and her laugh in equal measure.
9. Outside of work, what are your favorite things to do?
I lived in the city of Boston for what feels like forever, I recently moved to Rhode Island and during the pandemic fell in love with gardening. I love my work so much I sometimes have struggled with developing hobbies, and I feel real joy losing time in the garden. I also love Yoga. I am a member of “Find What Feels Good” with Adriene Mishler and I join her on the mat on a daily basis.
10. Do you have anything else you’d like to share with our blog readers?
Check out our career page! We are experiencing a special time for our organization, and we are looking for standard setters, people who are highly accountable, fun, and who want to work for a company that has a direct impact to saving lives. I am so glad I joined Rave and am beyond excited to help them grow.
