Tell us about yourself and how long you’ve been with Optimal Dynamics.
My name is Jeff Sweet and I’m the Senior Director of Sales Engineering. I’m based in Richmond, VA and I’ve been in the logistics industry for over 21 years. I’ve been with Optimal Dynamics for almost a year.
Can you summarize your job in one sentence?
I’m responsible for customer “Change Management” by defining how their fleet operations work today versus how they WILL operate once we deploy Optimal Dynamics, as well as addressing any roadblocks before our Customer Success team goes on-site for training.
What inspired you the most to join Optimal Dynamics?
The technology! I wasn’t really looking to move companies, but when I saw the solution that Optimal Dynamics was implementing for OTR fleets, I was very impressed and motivated to learn more. Eleven months later, I wish I had known about this company sooner!
What do you like best about our company culture?
Before joining, the interview team at Optimal Dynamics never emphasized what a great culture they had. After joining, I found out why. You don’t have to brag about something that is just the norm. It’s a very refreshing environment to be in. Everyone has the same goal of supporting the expanding customer base. The collaboration, management support, and teamwork is amazing!
What is unique about what we do at Optimal Dynamics?
Optimal Dynamics is transforming traditional load planning and dispatching by implementing an easy-to-use interface backed by 40+ years’ worth of complicated math and technology. This empowers our customers to make better decisions. No one else is doing (or can do) what we are doing!
What is your favorite part of your job?
I genuinely love the process of making “order out of chaos.” In this down freight market, customers are so caught up in the day-to-day operations that there is little time to think about anything else. Having the opportunity to walk our customers through how our technology will not only help them make better, more informed decisions, but streamline their operations is very satisfying. There is almost a sense of relief that there is “help” out there.
What have been your biggest accomplishments on our team, and what was the impact on the product/company?
My biggest accomplishment has been leveraging my previous experience in process improvement to help design a Change Management program here at Optimal Dynamics. Implementing a transformative software platform can be scary for those accustomed to operating a certain way. Showing fleets how they can become more efficient is a big part of managing the inevitable FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) that arises. Facilitating that change is a big part of successful implementations, and I’m so glad I get to be a part of it.
How have you grown professionally while on our team?
Coming from a fleet maintenance background, I had a lot to learn. Thanks to the deep academic background at Optimal Dynamics, learning was not only necessary, but encouraged. The Optimal Dynamics team has allowed me to expand my knowledge base while, in turn, using my previous experience to bring fleet customers exciting and business-changing solutions.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not watching my son play baseball, I spend as much time as I can outdoors. I love trail running, hiking and anything to do with salt water. I’m also a huge music fan and attend as many live concerts as possible!
What’s the best advice you can give to someone who wants to work at Optimal Dynamics?
Listen. Be open to new ideas and ways of doing things. Look for ways to not only provide value to the customer but also to our company.
