INTENTIONAL GROWTH
New Frontline Leader Started In Admin Role
When Savannah frontline leader JO MERKSON came to Averitt as an admin associate, she was very intentional about that choice. That focus has served her well, and it’s one of the reasons she’s been able to grow in her Averitt career. Jo has worked in a variety of fields, including leadership positions as well as an over-the-road driver for several years. “After driving OTR teams for three years, I was ready to be home,” recalls Jo, who came to Averitt in May 2022. A PURPOSEFUL DECISION Jo had several options for her next career move, but the transportation industry was in her blood. “My father and all of my uncles have worked in logistics in one aspect or another,” she explains. “I enjoyed being a driver, and I was sure I could use this love along with my previous experience to work in logistics behind the scenes.” Jo was impressed by our team’s strong reputation, and that caused her to decline an immediate leadership role with another company and instead come to Averitt in an admin role. “I wanted to be part of the best in the industry, and Averitt was and still is that,” Jo says. “If I had to start at the bottom and work my way up, I had no problems with that. I just wanted an opportunity.” Jo’s interest was further piqued by some encouragement from RHONDA EVANS of our Distribution & Fulfillment leadership during the interview process. “She told me that Averitt believes in taking care of its own and promoting from within,” Jo recalls. “I said, ‘I’m sold – when do I begin?’ I've not regretted it or looked back since.” After serving in the admin role for more than two years, Jo moved to
operations support in September of 2024. And earlier this year, she was promoted to her current position. ‘IT’S BIGGER THAN ME’ In addition to the way we Promote From Within , there are several reasons Jo believes she has been able to grow in her Averitt career. “Consistency, integrity, hard work, great customer service and realizing that it's bigger than me,” Jo explains. Jo also has straightforward advice for associates who want to prepare for their next step. “Be impeccable with your word, and be impeccable with your actions,” she says. “I have this written on my board. I read it every day. It's a reminder and sometimes a reality check.” TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP If you're ready to take the next step in your Averitt career, visit InsideAveritt.com/Opportunities . That's where you can see available positions on the Job Hotline and learn more about growth opportunities. T m Savannah frontline leader JO MERKSON (right), pictured with Service Center Director KEVIN FLENNIKEN (left), came to Averitt in an admin role and moved into operations support before being promoted to leadership.
BENEFITS ENROLLMENT READY FOR TAKEOFF
Get ready to blast off with Benefits Enrollment launching Oct. 6-24 ! You will find many familiar offerings, as well as some additions to our plans. COLONIAL LIFE INSURANCE This year’s benefit enrollment will include a new Colonial Life voluntary benefits offering, with a chance for you to enroll without any health questions (guaranteed issue) across all product lines. Benefits are also enhanced with generally lower costs. To take advantage of these enhancements and continue payroll deduction, you MUST make an election under the new offering during annual enrollment. If you choose to continue your current Colonial Life plan (except for voluntary life) as-is, it will not be payroll deducted in 2026. You may continue your current coverage by paying Colonial directly, and you'll receive instruction on how to do so from Colonial. The Colonial Life benefit counselors are available
during annual enrollment, and ready to help guide you through the Colonial Life plans as you make decisions about the best coverage for yourself and your family. Starting in 2026, you’ll also have access to a dedicated Averitt customer service line to get you the help you need! TELADOC Great news! High Deductible Health Plan members will have a $0 copay when using Teladoc services starting in 2026. Teladoc is great for minor conditions such as fever, sore throat, and congestion as well as for behavioral health concerns including stress, anxiety, and depression. The 2026 Benefits Enrollment Guide will be sent to your home address to assist you with choosing your benefits. Don’t forget to enroll in all of your benefits Oct. 6-24 , and call your Averitt Benefits team with any questions you have! T m
vol. 7 2 0 2 5
3
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter