RedCloud partnered with a key division of a multinational software company to modernize reporting processes for critical, systemic product issues. By implementing a Power Platform solution with real-time dashboards, the client improved visibility, decision-making, and resource prioritization across projects. Client Situation The client tracked and addressed the largest and most systemic issues across a suite of products. However, their reporting processes were largely manual and disjointed: Leadership relied on month-end reports compiled from spreadsheets and decks, consuming significant employee hours. Disparate data sources made it difficult to maintain consistency or transparency across stakeholders. Slow and static reporting hindered evidence-based decision-making and resource allocation. RedCloud was engaged to modernize reporting and provide a centralized, efficient system that could support rapid, informed decisions. Our Approach RedCloud applied a structured, end-to-end approach: Data Audit & Consolidation: Identified and pulled data from multiple platforms, including sales, project management, and engineering tools, and consolidated it into a central database. Custom Reporting Solution: Developed a Power Platform solution with real-time dashboards, visual graphs, high-level project summaries, and hover-over details for deeper insights. Stakeholder Collaboration: Worked closely with the client to understand specific reporting needs and built a flexible system to support evolving requirements. Training & Enablement: Supported leadership and stakeholders in using the dashboards to extract actionable insights and generate customized reports with minimal effort. Impact RedCloud’s solution delivered measurable benefits: Improved Visibility: Leadership now has access to real-time project data, enabling more transparent monitoring of critical initiatives. Time Savings: Reduced manual effort previously spent compiling spreadsheets, decks, and other summary documents. Enhanced Decision-Making: Dashboards allow rapid evaluation of resources, identification of barriers, and prioritization of high-impact fixes. Evidence-Based Strategy: Stakeholders can now make informed decisions with confidence, using consistent and centralized data. Scalable & Adaptable: The solution can evolve with future needs, enabling expansion to additional projects and teams. By integrating disparate data into a single platform and automating reporting, RedCloud empowered the client to optimize project oversight, improve stakeholder collaboration, and accelerate resolution of systemic issues. Ready to modernize your reporting and decision-making? Contact RedCloud’s Digital Solutions Practice team today to learn how we can help you streamline data management, reporting, and stakeholder insights.

RedCloud partnered with a multinational technology company to modernize its sales support program by simultaneously managing the program and measuring its effectiveness. Using the Microsoft Power Platform, RedCloud streamlined reporting, automated data capture, and provided real-time analytics to improve program management, enhance ROI, and optimize resource allocation. Client Situation The client had created a global sales support program to address local country challenges for dispersed accounts. However, leadership realized that managing the program while measuring its effectiveness was difficult: Reporting processes were manual and time-consuming, relying on bulk data downloads. Metrics were difficult to track, which prevented visibility into program performance and ROI. Inefficient reporting threatened the ongoing funding of the program and limited management’s ability to make informed decisions. RedCloud was engaged to design a scalable, automated solution to track program effectiveness, thereby freeing up the sales team to focus on customer engagement. Our Approach RedCloud applied a structured, technology-driven approach: Assessment & Data Audit: Evaluated the client’s sales data capture, warehouses, queries, and reporting processes to identify inefficiencies. Database Optimization: Renormalized the sales database to automate the capture of over 20 critical sales data points and eliminate redundant manual processes. Automation of Processes: Developed automated routines to manage and track sales activities, reducing manual effort and errors. Real-Time Reporting & Analytics: Built dynamic queries and dashboards via the Power Platform, enabling management to view program effectiveness by region, product, personnel, or other criteria. Scalability & Flexibility: Designed the system to accommodate additional reporting requirements and provide secure, geo-specific access. Impact RedCloud’s solutions produced measurable improvements: Enhanced Program Visibility: Managers gained access to real-time reports, improving decision-making and enabling timely interventions. Time & Resource Efficiency: Automation freed sales teams from manual reporting tasks, allowing them to focus on customer engagement and sales opportunities. Improved Data Accuracy & Scalability: Renormalized databases and automated workflows reduced errors and enabled a more scalable reporting system. ROI Demonstration: With improved analytics and reporting, the program was projected to achieve a 50x return on investment. Sustainable Process Improvements: Flexible reporting and automated dashboards ensure long-term program effectiveness, transparency, and adaptability. By combining strategic program management with technology-enabled analytics, RedCloud helped the client optimize program performance while providing tangible evidence of value. RedCloud’s partnership transformed the client’s sales support program into a highly measurable, efficient, and scalable solution. Leadership now has the insights and tools to track effectiveness, make informed decisions, and maximize ROI.

This summer, Sadie Sider-Echenberg brought her passion for problem-solving and teamwork to RedCloud as a Computer Science intern from the University of South Florida. A dedicated NCAA Division I soccer player with international experience playing professionally in France, Sadie was drawn to RedCloud’s boutique consulting environment, where collaboration and hands-on learning thrive. During her internship, she tackled real-world challenges, such as creating a live Power BI dashboard, and gained valuable insights into the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the consulting industry. Beyond her technical skills, Sadie’s adaptable spirit and love for the Pacific Northwest reflect the vibrant energy she brought to the team. What attracted you to our internship program, and how does it align with your career goals? Many things attracted me to RedCloud’s internship program! I was especially excited about the opportunity to join a smaller, boutique consulting firm, where I could work closely with others, take on meaningful projects, and truly learn from the people around me. As someone who has played team sports my entire life, I’m drawn to environments where collaboration and learning are integral to the daily experience, and RedCloud stood out as a place that truly values these aspects. What also stood out to me is how well the consulting industry aligns with the reasons I chose to study Computer Science- my interests in problem-solving and working creatively. On a personal note, I spent last summer in Seattle playing for a semi-professional soccer team and fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. It’s not only an amazing place to live—with all the outdoor activities and great people—but is, of course, a huge hub for tech, which makes it an exciting place to be at this early stage of my career. Where do you go to school, and what are you studying? I attend the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, Florida, where I will be entering my senior year this fall and studying Computer Science. I also compete in the NCAA DI with the women’s soccer team! What’s something new you’ve learned about the consulting industry that surprised you? I think how big of a role recruitment plays in consulting and how quickly projects and proposals come and go has surprised me. Working in the Bellevue office, I see how recruiters constantly work to find new projects and the right people to work on each one. It fascinates me how the industry is so fast-paced and constantly changing. What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? I played professional soccer for Le Havre FC in France during the 2022-2023 season. That year, I did online school to continue my degree. Living, playing, and studying in France was a life-changing experience. Among many things, that year taught me to be adaptable and open-minded, which I’ve tried to take with me into all areas of my life. What project or task have you worked on that you’re most proud of during your time here? Recently, I collaborated with Beau (Platte) and Benny (Swedberg) on a task where I assisted in creating a Power BI dashboard to display findings based on the results of a survey. Beau used the dashboard as a presentation tool to display metrics in real-time as the audience took a survey. It was one of my first experiences with Power BI, and figuring out how to synchronize it with Microsoft Forms and adapt to live updates was a challenging, yet fun, problem to solve. It was very cool to work on a project I knew would be used ‘in real life’ and gain experience bridging business problems with software solutions. I was very happy to hear that the presentation went well, and I played a small part in its success. What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you that people may be surprised by? I played rugby in high school and loved it. I think people may be surprised by this because I’m (not quite) 5’3. Quick picks: Coffee or tea? Early bird or night owl? City life or outdoor escape? Coffee!! I also love tea (especially Matcha), but being a college student, I’ve become a bit coffee dependent. Night owl, but I’m trying to change that. I like both, which is a big reason I love Seattle. Share one of your favorite quotes. It’s a long one, but one of my favorite quotes is ‘The Man in the Arena’ by Theodore Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

Meet Amy Paron, RedCloud’s dynamic Office Manager and Senior HR Generalist, whose multifaceted role keeps the company running smoothly and its culture thriving. From ensuring employees are set up for success with essential tools and resources to fostering positive employee experiences through onboarding and HR support, Amy’s dedication is evident in every task she undertakes. With a passion for welcoming new team members and creating a supportive workplace, she embodies RedCloud’s commitment to excellence. Beyond work, Amy finds joy in traveling, outdoor adventures, and spending quality time with her daughter, Bella. Let’s dive into her unique perspective and learn more about the journey that brought her here. Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell: As the Office Manager and Senior HR Generalist, I have the privilege of wearing multiple hats that contribute to our company's overall success and smooth operation. As Office Manager, I ensure that our office environment is efficient and well-stocked with supplies, snacks, and necessary equipment. This includes ensuring employee laptops are set up and ready to go so everyone has what they need to succeed. As Senior HR Generalist, I support key HR functions, including onboarding, offboarding, employee relations, and benefits administration. I enjoy helping foster a positive work culture and ensuring employees feel supported and informed. What do you enjoy most or find especially interesting about your current role? I’m particularly passionate about onboarding new employees. I love being the first face they see when they join, welcoming them warmly, and guiding them through the process of settling in. Sharing the unique culture of RedCloud and introducing them to the exceptional benefits we offer is always fulfilling, as it sets the tone for their journey with us. What are you most proud of in your career so far? One of the proudest moments in my career was playing a key role in growing Cozi Inc., a Seattle-based software company, from its early stages through to its eventual sale to Time Inc. It was an incredible journey of transformation, and being a part of that process was deeply rewarding. Tell us about something interesting you've learned recently. I recently finished reading "Entangled Life" by Merlin Sheldrake, which has shifted my perspective on nature. I knew that trees communicate with each other, but I was fascinated to learn that they do so through a complex underground network of fungi that connects their root systems. This book is a beautiful example of the interconnectedness of all life. If you could suggest a book for the entire team to read, what would it be and why? I would recommend The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer. This book explores how developing consciousness can help us live in the present moment and let go of past thoughts and memories that limit our happiness. It offers deep insights into how we can achieve self-realization and personal growth. Another book I’d suggest is "Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life" by Gary John Bishop. While the title is provocative 😉 it’s a fantastic resource for reprogramming negative thought patterns and empowering ourselves to live the life we’re truly meant to live. What obsolete technology do you still have a soft spot for? I have a soft spot for my record player! There's something special about listening to vinyl records — the rich, analog sound is irreplaceable.  What piece of advice would you share with your younger self? I would remind my younger self that life is fleeting and time moves faster than you realize. Don’t wait to take the trip, make that career change, or spend time with your loved ones. Say yes to the opportunities that come your way, and don’t put off decisions or experiences for tomorrow. Today is all that is promised. What are you passionate about or enjoy outside of work? Outside of work, my greatest passion is spending quality time with my daughter, Bella. I also love traveling and exploring new cities and countries. Some of my favorite pastimes are outdoor activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and relearning how to ski (I'm not doing very well at this one!). Giving back to the community through philanthropic efforts is also close to my heart. When I have downtime, I enjoy baking, practicing aerial silk acrobatics, solving crossword puzzles, and reading.

Meet Alvin Le, a Marketing and Information Systems student at the University of Washington who is currently interning at RedCloud. In this insightful conversation, Alvin tells us a bit about his tasks and projects, the skills he's leveraging from his academic background, and his observations about the RedCloud team's culture. Plus, find out his favorite app and how it enhances his dining experience! Why did you seek out an internship with RedCloud, and in the consulting industry? I met RedCloud Account Director Scott (Morton) at a University of Washington alumni event hosted by my fraternity and was immediately intrigued by his description of RedCloud. I connected with him on LinkedIn shortly after and reached out to ask if I could join RedCloud as a Consulting intern.  Fortunately for me, Scott was extremely accommodating and made the process easy and enjoyable. As a Marketing and Information Systems student at the University of Washington, working at RedCloud offers the perfect combination of marketing and technology that I seek in a role. I’ve always been drawn to consulting - I love the strategic, creative, and client-facing aspects of the industry - and I was actively seeking consulting opportunities that align with my background and interests. I found that in RedCloud, and I look forward to being a sponge of knowledge. What are your main tasks and projects as part of your internship? As I’m only a few weeks into my internship, I’m still learning the ropes of my assigned tasks and projects. I currently have the opportunity to work alongside Scott and assist him with monthly SLA MOSA reporting and Studio MOSA reporting. I also assist Yan Ma, a Senior Product Marketing Manager at RedCloud, with weekly Microsoft 365 newsletters as part of Microsoft client work. I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge in my first few weeks, and I’m excited to continue working on such fulfilling projects. What skills have you used, or do you think you'll use the most from school in your internship? Much of my coursework is directly applicable to my role at RedCloud. Material from my Marketing classes enables me to understand industry jargon, and my Information Systems curriculum provides a solid grasp of the technological landscape in which I work. I’ve previously worked on Marketing Consulting projects in school, which have developed the critical thinking skills, teamwork abilities, and growth-centered mindset necessary for a strong foundation in the field. I’m confident that I can leverage my resources at the UW Foster School of Business and past work experience to excel in this role and make a lasting impact on the RedCloud team. What is it like working with the RedCloud team? My experiences with the RedCloud team have been nothing but positive. Everyone I've interacted with has been friendly and helpful, from the recruiting process to onboarding and actual work dynamics. Although my work is primarily remote, it is clear that RedCloud emphasizes a close-knit culture that values its human resources.  What have been some of the biggest takeaways you had from your internship so far? So far, my internship has taught me valuable lessons about professional communication, essential business processes, and the importance of efficient teamwork. By assisting  seasoned consultants on my team, I observe and understand the professional synergies required to deliver weekly action items on time and of high quality. Along with industry-specific knowledge, I can apply these takeaways to future work experiences. Name a piece of tech you can’t live without or your favorite app? Currently, my favorite app is a restaurant-reviewing platform called Beli. Beli allows you to rate restaurants, bars, coffee shops, etc., you’ve visited using an intuitive algorithm that automatically ranks them. You can share your ratings with friends on the platform, read the reviews of others, and even make last-minute reservations. I would describe the user experience as a hybrid of Yelp and Instagram.  For an avid “foodie” like me, Beli encourages me to visit new restaurants with friends and family, adding a new factor of enjoyment and excitement to my dining experiences. I even used Beli to track the countries I visited when I spent a quarter abroad. I highly recommend this app to anyone who loves to explore their surroundings while traveling or to food lovers who want to track their eating experiences through social media.

Transitioning from intern to full-time employee, Alvin Le exemplifies growth and adaptability in his journey with RedCloud. Whether he’s crafting dynamic SharePoint sites or designing data dashboards in PowerBI, Alvin thrives on tackling challenges that contribute to organizational efficiency and change. His decision to return to RedCloud after college graduation wasn’t just about familiarity—it was about joining a company where he could grow, take on new opportunities, and make a meaningful impact. In this 10 Minutes With interview, Alvin shares insights about his role, his professional aspirations, and how he continues growing as a vital team resource. Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell. I’m a Junior Project Manager on Microsoft’s Azure Strategy and Transformation OCM (Organizational Change Management) team. My role primarily involves assisting three other RedCloud consultants and Microsoft team members in managing deliverables for our client. This position has allowed me to engage with various functions of the team, such as creating SharePoint information sites for project launches, planning, and scheduling projects through platforms like Azure DevOps and SAP IBP, and enhancing my skills in PowerBI to develop functional data management dashboards. So far, my role has given me invaluable exposure to Microsoft’s Cloud Supply Chain and the intricate elements that drive organizational change. Tell us why you decided to come back to RedCloud after your internship and graduation.  I thoroughly enjoyed my internship with RedCloud. When I completed my internship in July 2024, I knew that I wanted to return to work full-time after graduation. Still, I had to wait for a relevant position within a new project to become available. Amidst the uncertainty, I moved back home to California and began searching for new opportunities. Just when I began to think I wouldn’t hear back from RedCloud, I received a phone call from a recruiter, Lindsay Hornsby, asking if I would be interested in returning as a consultant on my current team. The idea of working with a company I was already familiar with while gaining experience in a new capacity excited me, and I accepted. What do you aim to accomplish professionally this year (2025)? This year, I’m excited to see where this opportunity takes me. Ideally, I would like to continue working on my current project, progressing my role-specific skills and responsibilities. I hope to take on more responsibilities relevant to my marketing background, further developing my proficiency and interest in product marketing. Above all, I want to be a valuable resource to my teammates and make their lives easier.  What do you enjoy most or find especially interesting about your current project? I recently had the exciting opportunity to create a presentation on the intersection of marketing and organizational change management, which I presented to the OCM client team at Microsoft. Initially, I was quite nervous, but I soon realized it was a fantastic chance to showcase my passion for product marketing and demonstrate how marketing principles can drive successful organizational change. After over two weeks of meticulous planning, I presented my findings to the client team and was thrilled to receive overwhelmingly positive feedback. This experience was incredibly rewarding and valuable, both for the client and for my own professional growth. I am eager for more opportunities where I can leverage my marketing background to enhance RedCloud’s resource capabilities.  What do you consider the most important skill for someone in your role and why? As a project manager, having strong organizational, time-management, and communication skills is paramount to success. When juggling multiple projects and responsibilities, finding an organizational system that works best for you is essential, helping avoid confusion and increase task efficiency. Similarly, allocating the right amount of time for each task ensures that deadlines are consistently met, allowing your team to function seamlessly without being bogged down by a backlog of work. Most importantly, effective communication skills are vital for promoting accountability, updating managers and teammates on progress, ensuring high-quality and timely work, and adapting to the inevitable changes in project deadlines. If you could suggest a book for the entire team to read, what would it be and why? Although it might seem like a cliché pick, I would suggest "Atomic Habits" by James Clear for the team and honestly, for everyone to read. As the first self-help book I ever read, "Atomic Habits" transformed my perspective on creating positive, lasting change in my life and showed me that self-improvement doesn’t have to be intimidating. This book provided me with a new outlook during an uncertain time in my life when I had just graduated college and was searching for a job with no end in sight. I learned that to achieve my goals and become the person I wanted to be. I had to improve myself and my habits by just 1% each day. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and "Atomic Habits" gave me a framework that made my goals seem more attainable over time. The lessons from this book can be applied to all facets of life, including my work. Creating lasting organizational change functions in the same way as habit forming and implementation do. I think everyone should read "Atomic Habits," as James Clear explains these concepts much better than I do. What, if anything, are you currently binge-watching?  I haven’t really been binge-watching any show or movie in particular, but as a recently addicted golfer, I have been watching a lot of YouTube golf content. Within the YouTube golf landscape are a handful of established creators, ranging from entertaining recreational players to professional golfers. A few channels I’ve been keeping up with are Good Good Golf, Grant Horvat, Bryan Bros Golf, and Bryson Dechambeau. What does your ideal company culture look like? My ideal company culture looks very similar to that of RedCloud. I prioritize work-life balance, which is well-represented at RedCloud with our flexible work formats and results-oriented culture. I also value the ability to work in diverse capacities, not limited to one specific role or job function. I appreciate the autonomy I’ve been allowed within the role and the opportunities to be proactive in my work. However, due to the remote nature of my work schedule, I miss the chance to interact with my team members in person and build meaningful personal relationships. My ideal work environment fosters a sense of community and pride, contributing to both individual motivation and professional fulfillment.

In this edition of 10 Minutes With, we’re excited to introduce Beau Platte, a change management expert with a thoughtful, people-centered approach to organizational transformation. Beau brings a refreshing perspective to the fast-paced, results-driven world of change management, advocating for a focus on the “long game” and a deep understanding of the people who drive business success. Rather than rely on quick pitches or one-size-fits-all solutions, he takes time to connect with leaders and teams, integrating change strategies that foster both agility and unity. Passionate about bridging the gap between technical execution and human experience, Beau’s work at RedCloud leverages AI and automation in ways that enhance—not hinder—organizational momentum.  Join us as we dive into Beau’s philosophy, insights, and some personal stories that make him a champion of change you’ll want to know. You're stuck in an elevator with a CEO who's skeptical about organizational change management. What's your 30-second pitch to win them over? I've never been a fan of 30-second pitches. If I get a limited amount of time with somebody well above me in an organization, use that time to understand what motivates and drives them. Then, over the course of the next three to six months, I will work on positioning my craft to their intellectual and emotional landscapes. Why use the 30 seconds to pitch blind? What aspect of organizational change management are you most passionate about, and why?  I enjoy the long game, and for me, that means focusing on the people. Leaders know what they want the business to do and how they need it to perform...that's their focus, and rightly so. Engineers and developers focus on how to enable the business technically... but in between these two things is the engine of any organization, and that is the people doing the work. Highlighting their role and importance is something that I really enjoy. In your opinion, what's the biggest misconception about organizational change management? That change management will slow you down.  Understanding the impact of change management and transformation thinking at higher levels within your organization can significantly influence investment perspectives and strategic direction. Change management, done properly, acts as an accelerant. Looking ahead, what emerging trends or technologies do you think will significantly impact organizational change management in the near future? I believe the traditional professional service model of selling individuals into roles will be disrupted in the coming years by technologies that are quickly becoming widely available. AI, automation, and small and large language models will be influential in the development of change management and professional services across the board. RedCloud is currently investing in one of these leaps. We’re building an operational reporting system that is AI and automation-enabled, and we’re super excited about it. If you look at the current landscape of tooling, you tend to get one of two things: either a delivery mechanism, which is great—you need to think about what multimodal delivery looks like and the data that goes with that—or a data entry and reporting model. We aim to bridge the gap between the two by increasing the efficiency of change managers while embedding the collection of necessary data into operations. If you weren't in change management, what alternative career path might you have pursued Honestly, I have absolutely no idea. I love what I do. Share a favorite quote that inspires your approach to work or life in general. I generally shy away from quotes and mantras because they often feel so absolute, singular, or narrow. However, if I had to choose one, I recall a saying I saw on a poster during my high school exchange in Norway. It roughly translates to, “Life is just a moment between two eternities.” Both that experience in Norway and the concept itself have guided me. What's your go-to comfort food, beverage, or activity after a long day at work? After a stressful day at work, I need to focus on letting go so I can turn my attention to my family. Without question, the fastest way for me to do that is to jump on my rowing machine and push hard for 20 minutes. And if I’m lucky, someone will have carbonara on the table when I'm done. Tell us something interesting you've learned recently, whether work-related or not. After 23 years of moving from place to place—state to state, city to city, country to country—and spending the last 9 years in the Pacific Northwest, my family made the decision this summer to move to my hometown in northern Michigan. I had all kinds of stories in my head about why it would be challenging, both for me and for us as West Coasters. What I’ve learned is that community, once there, is always there. Returning to a community and reconnecting has been one of the most rewarding experiences. This also applies to my work. I believe that community at work is one of the most effective ways to support talent within an organization. Our goal with the community of practice at RedCloud is to foster a sense of belonging among our change managers, who would typically be engaged from a RedCloud perspective but not necessarily from a practice perspective. We aim to foster a sense of community through engagement and support. Name one piece of technology you couldn't live without. I’m not much of a technology person. While technology at work keeps me interested and enables our teams to innovate and come up with cool and interesting solutions...the thing that comes to mind when I reflect on the question is a paddle. If you were to look at my bookshelf, you’d see a whole collection of books, literature, and stories dedicated to movement—movement on water, through air, and on foot. The one closest to me, and I think this comes from growing up with a canoe enthusiast for a dad, is a paddle or an oar. It’s something that has stayed with me since I was young. When I need to go somewhere to think, escape, be alone, or reflect, it always comes with a paddle and movement. Outside of work, what hobby or interest do you pursue that might surprise your colleagues? I don’t think people who are close to me at work will be surprised by anything I have to say. I appreciate colleagues who bring their whole selves to work and share what’s happening in their personal lives. This allows me, as a leader and colleague, to step into or out of that space and provide support as needed. The easiest way to create an environment where this behavior is accepted and supported is to share a bit more of yourself than might have been traditionally expected or accepted.

Brittani Paxson serves as the Director of Operations for RedCloud, where she plays a crucial role in various internal functions, including recruiting, operations, HR, legal matters, and event planning. With a strong focus on problem-solving, Brittani ensures that consultants have the resources they need to excel in their client services. Proud of her contributions to fast-growing teams, she has helped shape two start-ups into successful groups of over 125 people each. Outside of work, Brittani and her husband are raising five kids; they enjoy traveling and participating in their children’s sports activities. She also has a soft spot for Polaroid cameras, which she bought for her kids and frequently uses at home. Stay tuned below to learn more about Brittani! Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell. As the Director of Operations for RedCloud, I participate in a wide variety of internal functions, including recruiting, operations, HR, legal, event planning, and everything in between! What do you consider the most important skill for someone in your role and why? Being part of an internal team at a consulting firm requires problem-solving skills. Our job is to ensure that our consultants on the ground have everything they need to serve our clients well. What are you most proud of in your career so far? I’m really proud of the teams I have helped grow. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of many fast-growing teams, and my primary focus has been building a strong foundation from which the team can launch. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in your role? Most importantly, I have always advocated for myself, taken time off when I needed to, and prioritized my family and my health. I’ve been so lucky to work for organizations that have empowered me to maintain a healthy work-life balance. What is something memorable you've accomplished as part of a team? I joined two different teams when they were in their start-up phase and helped grow both to over 125 people. It was really rewarding to watch those teams grow and evolve and have incredible impacts on their clients. If you could switch places with a colleague for the day, who would it be and why? I’d switch places with one of our consultants as they onboard to our team. It would be rewarding and insightful to walk in their shoes through the recruiting, RedCloud onboarding, and client onboarding processes. What's a piece of obsolete technology you still have a soft spot for? Polaroid cameras. I bought one for my kids a few years ago, and it is regularly used in our home! What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? My husband and I have five children and live in the middle of the tulip fields in Mount Vernon, WA. What piece of advice would you share with your younger self? Don’t make decisions for anyone but yourself. The world will put so much pressure on you to fit certain molds to serve other people or organizations. Always make sure you are centered, have a solid understanding of who you are, and make informed decisions as a result. What are you passionate about or enjoy outside of work? My family! I have five wonderful kiddos, and my husband and I really enjoy traveling with our kids. We love boating in the summer, skiing in the winter, and spending the majority of our free time spectating our kids’ many sporting events.

Meet Shiloh Gillespie, an Account Manager at Red Cloud with a passion for collaboration and understanding the "why" behind every action. Shiloh's journey in consulting began in 2010, and she's been thriving in the field ever since. From championing vulnerability in leadership to belting out tunes at Carnegie Hall, Shiloh's story is full of surprises! Want to learn more about her work-life balance tips, favorite reads, and passion for music? Keep reading below! Briefly describe your role and how long you have been in consulting. I am an Account Manager, and in the simplest terms, I enjoy partnering with people to achieve their goals. I can see the big picture but also thrive in the details. I am also nonjudgmental, curious, and seek to understand the motivations of those around me. Everyone has a “why,” even when it is not immediately apparent. I started consulting in 2010 when I joined a firm as a project manager. I remained in this capacity for three years, during which time I had the opportunity to assist the internal account team on a part-time basis. When a full-time opportunity opened to backfill an open headcount on the sales team, I jumped at the chance and have never looked back.   How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in your role? Long walks with my dogs at the end of the workday and exercise before the workday starts. It is easy to get lost in the tasks required throughout the day, but if I prioritize my health, especially at the start and end of the day, I feel great! If you could suggest a book for the entire team to read, what would it be and why? I would recommend “Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown. In this book, Brown encourages leaders to embrace vulnerability, build trust, and prioritize empathy in the workplace. This read was incredibly eye-opening and really challenges many workplace norms that have been in place for a long time. However, I can already see that RedCloud has many of these values in place already!   What is a piece of obsolete technology you still have a soft spot for? Polaroid Camera – I love the vintage vibe of the photo quality, and there is something super gratifying about shaking the photo around to help it develop faster! What is one thing that people don’t know about you that they would be surprised to discover? In May of 2022, I had the opportunity to join a group of singers and sing at Carnegie Hall. I didn’t realize it prior, but if you are part of a group interested in performing at Carnegie, you can work with a tour agency of sorts to put this together. We were one of 3 groups that performed about 30 minutes of music. As a lifelong performer, performing at Carnegie was a bucket list opportunity. Since I am not a professional, this was the perfect opportunity to check that one off the list! Share one of your favorite quotes: “Between stimulus and response, there is space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” What are you passionate about or enjoy outside work? Music is my creative outlet, and I love it in all forms. I have participated in choir singing since middle school and love the process of learning the music, refining it over time, and creating beauty in a collaborative group setting. I also love to experience music live as a listener. In the summer, this typically takes place in an outdoor setting, but I try to get out and catch a band as much as I possibly can all year round.

Meet Mara Siverson , our latest team member to be featured in RedCloud’s "10 Minutes with" interview series where we get to know our team of experts, their professional and personal interests. Mara's role involves a blend of business strategy design, execution planning, and operational program management, focusing on supporting a Director in the Microsoft Global Partner Solutions organization. With four years of experience supporting her client, Mara brings valuable insights and a unique perspective to our team. Outside of work, Mara enjoys exploring new interests, advocating for work-life balance, and finding relaxation in surprising ways. Stay tuned below to learn more about Mara and her journey! Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell. My client is a Director in the Microsoft Global Partner Solutions organization, focused on partner strategy & execution. My role is a blend of business strategy design, execution planning, and all the operational program management required to keep things running smoothly. While the nature of my job requires that I wear many different hats, I particularly enjoy working in Microsoft's partner business, whether it involves diving into data or refining  go-to-market  and landing strategies with the team. I've been supporting this same client for over four years, and it's been amazing to be a part of the evolution of her business remit over the years. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in your role? Though working remotely can make the separation of work life & home life difficult, I'm fortunate to have a dedicated home office, and I find shutting the door when I log off for the day is a great way to employ the "out of sight, out of mind" mentality to help drive this separation. I'm also a big fan of making lists, so I've gotten in the habit of when I think of something work-related when I'm not "on the clock," I just type it in a quick note in my phone so that I can purge it from my head and revisit it when I'm working. Admittedly, this is an area I still need to do better in, but these little tricks help quite a bit! Tell us about something interesting you've learned recently. I recently learned about the Swiss Water Process, which is a method used in the specialty coffee industry to decaffeinate coffee beans using only water! The process removes 99.9% of caffeine from green coffee beans, which are then dried & bagged before being roasted, allowing the coffee to retain the unique flavor profile of the origin of the beans. I assumed all decaf was achieved by adding a bunch of chemicals, so this was definitely surprising info! (My husband leads B2B wholesale sales at Caffe Ladro Roasting, and he's always sharing really interesting facts about coffee.) If you could suggest a book for the entire RedCloud team to read, what would it be and why? "The Cure for Burnout" by Emily Ballesteros is absolutely a must-read for anyone struggling with work-life balance or experiencing feelings of overwhelm when thinking about work (and I'm not just saying this because the author was a good friend of mine in college!!) In the book, Emily explores how to build healthy habits to avoid burnout and how to manage one's own personal & professional boundaries. The content is relatable, and she strikes a good balance between being a book on self-help versus business-focused. If reading isn't your thing, the book is also available as an audiobook! What's a piece of obsolete technology you still have a soft spot for? I really miss when cell phones had physical keyboards. I enjoyed the tactile feeling of texting with real buttons – long live the BlackBerry! What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? While it's no secret that I'm a big baseball fan (go Mariners!), something that usually surprises people is when I tell them that I also collect baseball cards. I'd guess that I have around 50k cards spanning from the 1970s to modern day. One of my favorite things is when I can find bulk card lots off Marketplace and then sort them by year and team. I'm not sure why, but I find it extremely relaxing! What are you passionate about or enjoy outside of work? When I'm not working, you can usually find my husband, me, and our two blue heeler dogs outside doing anything we can to enjoy the fresh air: camping, hiking, fishing, skiing, sitting at the nearest brewery, you name it! Both my husband and I grew up in Washington, and introducing our dogs to all the activities we enjoy has been a truly enjoyable experience.

We're excited to introduce Sean Taylor, a talented Content Designer at RedCloud, who recently joined us for our latest "10 Min With" interview. Sean collaborates with a team of content designers to create seamless user experiences, working on projects such as clarifying product language, writing video scripts, and crafting team newsletters. Sean shares his approach to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, his recent read "Billy Wilder on Assignment," and some surprising personal anecdotes, including his love for ultrarunning and DVDs. Join us as we get to know more about Sean Taylor and his journey at RedCloud below. Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell. I work on a team of content designers, collaborating across multiple work streams to help create user experiences. Some examples of past work include clarifying product language, writing video scripts, and helping create a team newsletter.   How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in your role? My days are consistently filled with meetings, so I try to plan and carve out times throughout my week that allow me to focus on my physical and mental health. I also enjoy cooking, so taking breaks while making meals helps me reset for a moment. It's easy to get stuck behind your screen, so I make sure to take advantage of my free time during the weekends. Every day is different, so maintaining a sense of flexibility is key to balance your work and your life.   Tell us about something interesting you've learned recently. Being off your phone is a lot more fun than being on it. (Sent from my phone)   If you could suggest a book for the entire RedCloud team to read, what would it be and why? I just finished reading Billy Wilder on Assignment, which depicts his time before he became a celebrated writer/director. You've probably heard or seen his movies like Sunset Boulevard, Double Indemnity, and The Apartment. I believe you'd get a kick out of reading his works from his early years, which are translated into English for the first time.   What's a piece of obsolete technology you still have a soft spot for? DVDs. I just got a 4K player as well. I could (and do) sit and watch them for hours.   What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? The first race I ever competed in was a 100-mile race, and I had 30 hours to complete it. After 21 hours and 71 miles, my knees were swollen the size of baseballs, which was the farthest I've ever been. I wish I had completed the full race, and shoutout to all the ultrarunners out there. I couldn't walk for three days, plus I ordered a pizza twenty miles away by accident and never received it. I still think about that pizza sometimes…   What are you passionate about or enjoy outside of work? Sports. I've loved competing ever since I was a kid and will always jump at a challenge. I support the Atlanta Braves, Alabama, and Aston Villa. I also love watching and playing golf, which blossomed after I saw "Happy Gilmore" when I was seven.

Meet Michelle Pudas, a 10-year veteran at RedCloud, currently an integral part of Microsoft's Security GTM team, juggling diverse responsibilities that include supporting solution play leads, managing core asset development for Microsoft's field sellers, and contributing to essential Microsoft security events. Beyond the thrilling projects, Michelle is proud of her work creating success for her clients at Microsoft, cherishing the connections she's fostered and the wealth of knowledge gained. Balancing work and personal life, she dedicates focused time each day and prioritizes activities like exercise.  Read on to learn more about Michelle and her invaluable contributions to RedCloud and our clients. Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell. I am currently supporting three solution play leads on the Security GTM team at Microsoft.  I primarily project manage the development of core assets for the Microsoft field sellers that help them drive Microsoft’s security business with their customers. I am also responsible for managing monthly community calls with GTM managers worldwide and supporting the team’s efforts around key Microsoft security events like Ignite and Microsoft Secure. What do you enjoy most or find especially interesting about your current project? The people, for sure!  Aside from the amazing people I work with on my immediate team, I appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of individuals from various groups across Microsoft. From product marketing managers for some of Microsoft’s most strategic security products to GTM managers worldwide who bring their different perspectives from around the world, and the various people who manage and run all the programs for the solution plays and the field teams that ultimately drive the business. I have met some amazing, hard-working people, and they really make going to work each day enjoyable! What are you most proud of in your career so far? I am proud of the longevity I have had supporting our clients at Microsoft and the connections I have made along the way. I was an FTE at Microsoft for almost 20 years and have now been consulting at Microsoft for 14 years. I have met many great people, worked in various areas of Microsoft, and learned a great deal. In my current consulting roles, I often assist new Microsoft employees in navigating the company's intricacies and help them get up to speed more quickly. How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in your role? I set time on my calendar each day for ‘focus time’. This is a time when I don’t take meetings.  I use this time to get stuff done. At Microsoft, a significant amount of time can be spent in meetings, making it challenging to complete actual work. This really helps keep me on track to complete tasks. I also block out time on my calendar for exercise or other personal time as needed. This all helps me keep a good balance between work and personal life. Tell us about something interesting you've learned recently. During the holidays, I discovered the design software Canva and used it to help create “experience gifts” and “gift certificates” for holiday presents. I like being creative, but I’m not very artistic. This is the perfect tool for that. My family was very impressed 😉 What is something memorable you've accomplished as part of a team? Corporate events are always memorable. A long time ago, I worked with an amazing group of people to put together an offsite event for our team. We had many late nights and last-minute printing of hundreds of PowerPoint slides (a task we used to do back in the day), and it seemed like we would never get it all done. However, we did, and it turned out great! There was a lot of stress, but it was a great feeling of accomplishment when it was done. If you could suggest a book for the entire RC team to read, what would it be and why? Boys in the Boat. This is a story about hard work and the competitive spirit. I think that can appeal to a lot of different types of people and interests. Read the book before you see the movie 😊 What's a piece of obsolete technology you still have a soft spot for? Microsoft ActiMates!  I love those things (and I still have all of them –  Barney, Arther, DW , and the Teletubbies ). Microsoft released these in the late 90’s and when my kids were little in the early 2000’s, they played with them and loved them. I was fortunate enough to work in the retail organization at Microsoft when these were released and was able to attend Toy Fair in New York to meet with retailers and show them all the cool things these guys could do! It was incredible technology at the time and a unique and memorable experience for me in my career. What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? Maybe the above 😊 or that I was on the TV show ‘Romper-Room’ when I was 5 years old. What, if anything, are you currently binge-watching? Or reading? I haven’t had much time for binge-watching, but when I do have time, I’d like to finish watching Ted Lasso . I’m currently planning a trip for our family to Europe in May after my daughter graduates from college, so I’m reading a lot about Europe right now.