Meet our Director of Revenue, Jeanna Hamilton. With a wealth of experience in Accounting with an emphasis in revenue cycle and operations. She plays a crucial role in ensuring our financial processes run smoothly here at GDT. Jeanna also reminds us of the importance of recognizing the contributions of people of color as we celebrate Black History Month.
How long have you been with GDT, and what does your role entail?
Jeanna: I have actually been at GDT for three years today! I am the Director of Revenue and Accounts Receivable, which includes anything related to the revenue cycle, such as invoicing, revenue recognition, cash application, reporting, and collections.
Happy anniversary! Where did you grow up, and what brought you to your current city? How did you get started and work toward your current role?
Jeanna: I am a military brat and have lived all over the United States. I was born at Ft. Hood in Killeen, TX, but I have lived in Oklahoma, Hawaii, Georgia, and Colorado. I also lived in Germany for two years.
I got started in accounting while working part-time for a telecommunications company. The accounting team needed help in the area, and once there, I decided that I liked it.
Can you describe your team, your team’s role here at GDT, and the dynamics of your team?
Jeanna: The team is comprised of 14 people in the US and India. Everyone works well together and takes a lot of pride in their work. I am very proud of the team that I have today. The dynamics are great, and we really complement each other.
We are responsible for generating all customer-related invoices. We support our customers internally (sales, operations) and externally (customers, vendors). As core support for the business, we must ensure our work is timely and accurate. The team has really grown, and I am very proud of them.
Watching the team grow over the last few years has been great. What are the key goals for your department this year, and how do you envision us achieving them?
Jeanna: Process improvement and automation where possible. The company is growing, and automation and process improvement will support the company’s growth.
Accounting and Finance are shared resources; therefore, we support the entire organization. We prioritize and treat every invoice with the same urgency and respect. We aim to do what is best for GDT because revenue comes full circle. Communication is key when working with our team.
What aspects of our organizational vision, mission, or values resonate with you?
Jeanna: Innovation — I love that I can identify an opportunity for improvement and present my ideas to leadership on how to improve a process, and they are always open to recommendations. I can make many of the major decisions for my team and manage how I see best based on my experience and the team’s feedback. Executive leadership is open to this management style. I also like the open-door policy with our leadership team and the opportunity to learn from them.
I agree, and I think that is a big deal for us to have an open-door policy and freedom to lead well. February month is Black History Month; can you tell us what Black History Month means to you?
Jeanna: I celebrate Black History Month every day. I love reading stories about African American trailblazers. It’s an educational, inspirational celebration and an opportunity for all people to understand the impact of African Americans in American History. I think we can look back to every minority group and see how they paved the way fighting for equality for us today.
What changes would you like to see in the workplace or society to better support and uplift the Black community?
Jeanna: Mentors are a great start. Open dialogue and understanding for any group, not just within the Black community, is essential. There has been a lot of change, but we still have a long way to go. We need to look past what is outside and look for more opportunities for young minorities to help them navigate their careers.
What advice would you give young African Americans just starting their careers?
Jeanna: For any young person starting their career, I would say NEVER ASSUME and NEVER take anything PERSONAL. People are going to find a reason not to like you. It’s their loss, and you can’t be deterred. Keep going towards your goal. Also, surround yourself with like-minded, positive people who support your growth and development
That is great; I think we can all learn from that. Can you share a story about a historical figure or mentor who has inspired you and why?
Jeanna: Absolutely. There are so many, but Maya Angelou stands out through “I Still Rise,” her poem about resilience, self-respect, and confidence. Maya had a hard upbringing and eventually went on to become a writer and a motivational speaker.
I will need to check out that poem! Tell us more about yourself outside of work; what are your hobbies and interests?
Jeanna: I am a fantasy fiction junkie. I have been reading about ancient histories and religions; that is something that has always interested me. I love sports. I used to play basketball and track, and recently I have been drawing.
Thank you, Jeanna, for sharing a little about yourself and for the role you play in making GDT a great place to work. Jeanna’s dedication to innovation, transparency, and continuous improvement is evident in their leadership and the success of their global team. We are proud to have such an inspiring leader at GDT! Learn more about GDT’s vibrant culture and explore our career options by visiting Life at GDT.
