Get ready for this month's feature in our KORE Connections blog series, Pete West! As Senior Vice President of North American Sales, Pete works diligently to ensure your connectivity needs are met.
Originally from Chicago, Pete moved to the Washington D.C. area when he was younger. It wasn't until after college that he moved to Los Angeles for a time before heading back to the East Coast to start his career in Technology sales. Pete was KORE's twelfth employee, and has been with us nearly 17 years! When he isn't working, Pete can be found with his wife and two daughters or taking a jog at the gym.
Q: What is a goal you have accomplished that you are proud of?
A: I think just the fact that a scrappy little kid from the Southside of Chicago has overcome so many challenges and achieved so much. I didn’t grow up with much and I don’t take anything for granted. I always say there is no such thing as luck. “Luck is hard work that meets opportunity,” and you must be ready– you have to earn every bit of it!
Q: How do you stay motivated? Do you have any advice for someone starting a career in sales?
A: I get up early, start my day before and end my day after most people. I don’t consider myself the smartest person in the room, but there is one thing I can do, which is out work someone. It’s like sports, you have to put in the hours of practice and know that there is someone out there who is doing the same. If you do that then the right things will happen.
Q: How would those closest to you describe you?
A: Fun, outgoing and always willing to help. One of the parts of my job that I love the most is watching my people on my team grow and succeed. When I see that, I know I’ve done my part. Oh, and yes, we might have some fun on the way as well…!
Q: Is there something you’ve crossed off your bucket list that you would highly recommend? Tell us about it!
A: I’ve been fortunate to do many things. Superbowl, Masters, NYSE bell, run a marathon... but there is one thing on the top of my list, and that is space travel. One of these days!
Q: What is something difficult you’ve had to overcome?
A: I was a small kid growing up. I really wanted to play high school football, so my junior year I tried out and was terrible. The summer before my senior year I worked out every day. My senior year I made 1st team All State wide receiver and 2nd team All Mid-Atlantic. I’ll just say that was a surprise to everyone!
Q: How do you decompress after a hard day at work?
A: Regardless of how hard my day was, as soon as I’m with my girls, it’s all good. I also will hit the gym or go for a jog to clear my head.
Learn how you can make a difference #AtTheKORE by visiting our careers page.
In a world obsessed with connections, from fast streaming services, to building personal networks, to even connected cities and homes, it is the personal connections that matter the most – that is why we are proud to introduce KORE Connections. This forum is a Q&A series where our thought leaders and innovators can share their perspectives on life, innovations, and business which could help you in building your own connections.