Hey, Hai! Can you share a bit about your role at Red Argyle and what your day-to-day looks like?
Of course! I’ve recently taken on the role of PMO Director at Red Argyle, and it’s been a rewarding experience so far. I work closely with project managers, coordinators, and various teams to make sure everything aligns with our business goals, stays on track, and that we’re proactively managing risks. My day typically involves reviewing project updates, supporting teams with the resources they need, and contributing to strategic planning across different accounts. I also enjoy jumping in to solve any challenges that come up and providing mentorship to team members within the PMO. On top of that, I collaborate with senior leadership to ensure we’re prioritizing the right initiatives and creating value for the company. It’s a dynamic and fulfilling role that blends big picture strategy with hands on support.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
Oh, I’ve received so much great advice from some of the best and amazing mentors throughout my career, but one that really stands out is “Lead with empathy.” Early in my career, I was so focused on delivering results and being efficient, but I soon realized that truly understanding and connecting with people whether it’s my team, clients, or stakeholders can have a huge impact on success. When you approach challenges with empathy, you build trust, encourage collaboration, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. This advice has really influenced my leadership approach and helped me handle complex situations with more clarity and understanding.
Do you have pets? Tell us about them!
I do! It’s a small Shih Tzu who just turned 8! He’s the best little buddy, and he loves to go on adventures with us and often likes to join my meetings, though he’s usually snoring in the background. He’s a pro at napping and somehow always manages to find the coziest spot in my office during my calls!
Can you share a memorable moment or a fun fact about your time at Red Argyle?
Some of my most memorable moments at Red Argyle happened during our team trips to client sites for offsites planning. We had such a great time walking through the streets of NYC, soaking in the city’s energy, and just having spontaneous conversations. One of my favorite moments was riding bikes around a client’s campus, seeing everyone smiling and enjoying the moment. But the real highlight was when we randomly stumbled into this little restaurant and bar. I remembered the drinks were so terrible but we ended up chatting for hours, laughing, and sharing stories about how we all ended up at Red Argyle. There was something so special about that unplanned, down to earth moment but it was more about the genuine conversations and connections. It wasn’t just about the work; it was about the people, the shared experiences, and the bonds we’ve built. Moments like that make me feel incredibly lucky to be part of such an amazing team and company!
Outside of work, what are your passions or hobbies? How do you like to unwind?
Outside of work, I’m really into restoring cars and motorcycles. There’s something so rewarding about bringing a classic or salvage sports car back to life whether it’s tracking down hard to find parts or diving into some engine work. It’s the perfect way for me to unwind. I love getting lost in the details, solving problems, and watching the transformation come together. Plus, it’s a fun mix of creativity and hands-on work, and there’s nothing like hearing the engine roar to life or seeing the paint shine again. Every new project feels like a little adventure!
What is your favorite thing about Red Argyle’s culture?
My favorite thing about Red Argyle’s culture is the incredible sense of support, work life balance, and flexibility that everyone brings to the table. It’s a place where we can all lean on each other, whether it’s for help with a complex Salesforce project, sharing ideas, or simply offering advice when things get tricky. There’s a real emphasis on collaboration, and everyone is genuinely invested in each other’s success. We come together to build amazing solutions, but we never lose sight of keeping things fun and balanced. The culture encourages growth, but without the stress or pressure; it’s all about finding creative ways to tackle challenges while enjoying the journey. Plus, the team spirit here is unmatched; there’s always a sense of camaraderie that makes even the most complex tasks feel achievable. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, challenge, and genuine connection!
How has your role changed since you started at Red Argyle?
When I first started at Red Argyle three years ago, I came in as a project manager with a background in the construction and design industry, where everything was fast paced, chaotic, and constantly changing. The shift to Red Argyle was a big change! The pace here is definitely more steady, and the projects are more structured, especially when it comes to Salesforce implementations. Over time, I’ve grown to appreciate the more collaborative, strategic approach we take with clients and projects. While the construction industry was all about managing the hustle and chaos, here I’ve been able to focus more on planning, problem-solving, and supporting a team in a more thoughtful way. My role has evolved from just managing timelines, budgets, and multiple vendors to becoming a true partner with our clients and internal team, helping them navigate complex Salesforce projects while maintaining a steady, positive work environment. It’s been a rewarding shift, and I’ve learned so much along the way!
What is something about your role that people might find surprising?
Oh, great question! One thing that might surprise people about my role as PMO Director is how much time I spend unblocking things rather than just managing projects. Sure, I oversee timelines and budgets, but a big part of my job is helping teams navigate challenges and removing roadblocks, whether it’s coordinating with other departments or solving tricky issues that pop up. It’s like being part of the backstage crew at a concert, we’re not the one on stage, but without us, the show wouldn’t go on!
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Espresso! And lots of it 😁. First, I brew that first cup of pure magic because let’s be real, without it, I’m basically a walking nap. But once that espresso hits, it’s like I’ve been rebooted. The best part? It’s all about progress, not perfection. Just knowing I’m crushing it, one sip at a time. Stay focused, keep sipping that espresso, and watch the to do list melt away like a sugar cube in a hot cup of coffee.
What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important?
Right now, I’m really focused on helping teams build resilience, especially when things don’t go exactly as planned. The truth is, no project is ever a smooth ride, and it’s how we recover from setbacks that really counts. I’m working on supporting my team better by encouraging a mindset of learning and flexibility, instead of aiming for perfection all the time. This is so important because resilience boosts everything: productivity, morale, and creativity. When teams feel ready to handle the bumps along the way, they stay motivated and keep coming up with great ideas, even when things get tough. As a leader, I want to model this resilience, helping the team stay focused, stay positive and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. In a world that’s constantly changing, it’s the key to keeping things moving forward and setting everyone up for long term success!
How do you handle stress and pressure, especially with tight deadlines or challenging projects?
Another great question! When stress and pressure hit, especially with tight deadlines or tough projects, I focus on staying positive and solution oriented. Instead of getting stuck on the problem, I like to shift the focus to finding ways forward. It’s all about looking at the situation as an opportunity to solve something, rather than getting bogged down by the stress of it all. I also make sure the team has a clear direction. When everyone knows exactly what they need to do and how we’re moving forward, it takes a lot of the uncertainty out of the equation. I’m a big believer in open communication, so I encourage everyone to speak up if they’re feeling stuck or need help; collaboration is key. And, of course, keeping a positive attitude is essential. It’s contagious! If I stay calm and optimistic, the team tends to follow suit, which makes tackling those challenging projects feel a lot more manageable. So, staying solution focused, keeping the team aligned, and maintaining a positive vibe really helps me navigate stress and pressure.
