Meet Jennifer Sukup, Director of Internal Training and Professional Development
Q: Where did you grow up, and what did your career look like before you started at LGC?
I grew up in the very small town of Greenville, IL. As a kid, I was extremely shy, the kind of person who always had her nose in a book and focused on studying. In my sophomore year, my best friend convinced me to join the chorus. She promised I’d blend in with the group during performances, but I was terrified!
Our last school-year performance was a dinner show, where we served the audience between songs. To my surprise, I loved interacting with the guests. That experience kick-started my hospitality journey.
That summer, I got my first job as a waitress and continued working in restaurants into my mid-twenties. Waitressing was something I genuinely enjoyed, and it fit perfectly with raising two small children. Once my kids reached school age, I started looking for career opportunities that would provide more stability, and that’s when I was introduced to the world of staffing.
Q: What was the process of moving into the role you’re in now?
I started at LGC in January 2013 as a Staffing Manager. I already had three years of experience in staffing, but it was in the industrial sector, a world I didn’t know much about since hospitality had been my focus since I was 16.
Enter LGC. Ironically, my former boss from the first staffing agency I worked for had become the Branch Manager at LGC. She reached out, told me about the company, and invited me to interview with her Area Manager, Rachel Martin. And as they say, the rest is history!
Over the past 12 years, I’ve held several roles at LGC, including Branch Manager, Area Manager, Area Vice President, VP of Special Projects, VP of MarketStaff, Corporate Recruiter, and now Director of Internal Training and Professional Development.
Q: What has been particularly challenging?
Every role has its challenges, especially when you’re trying to advance. For me, the biggest challenge was learning how to balance managing, supporting, leading, motivating, and training, all while meeting the other responsibilities of my position.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that no two people are the same. There are so many different personalities, learning styles, and motivators. Creating great teams requires a unique recipe that brings all those factors together.
Q: Were there people who played a key role in helping you grow both professionally and personally?
I’ve had an incredible support system from the start. I was fortunate to begin my career within LGC during the company’s first decade of operation, which meant my mentors were the same people who built the foundation of LGC’s success.
One standout for me is Rachel Martin. She pushed me when I needed it, listened when I needed to vent, and helped me navigate my career path. On a personal level, my daughter and son have always been my inspiration. I’ve worked hard to show them the value of diligence and determination.
Q: What have you learned along the way, and what advice would you give to current employees?
Never give up on what you want. Advocate for yourself. Do the work. If there’s a position you’re aiming for, start acting like you already have it.
And when you have a bad day, let it be just that: a bad day. Learn from it, dust yourself off, and move forward. No one succeeds without making mistakes along the way. If you’re not failing sometimes, you’re not trying hard enough to win.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
I love spending time with my adult kids, reading, and going to St. Louis Cardinals baseball games. And honestly, I enjoy the occasional lazy Sunday where I can just relax and do nothing.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you?
I’d love to be a published author someday! That said, I am absolutely terrified of heights, snakes, and clowns. Also, I’m the youngest of five siblings.
At LGC, we’re continually inspired by the leaders who shape our company and nurture our teams. Jennifer has played an integral role in helping LGC grow into the strong and vibrant organization we are today. Let her journey remind you of what’s possible with hard work, mentorship, and a supportive team.
Ready to write your own LGC story? Join our team and start your journey today!
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About LGC
Since 2003 LGC has been building connections between businesses with staffing needs and job seekers looking for new opportunities. Our range of solutions includes temporary and permanent placements (and everything in between) for a variety of industries. With offices located nationwide, we can tap into a dynamic pool of talented professionals. We have a passion for creating partnerships that last and work hard every day to ensure both clients and candidates reach their employment goals.Â