River City Six: Jim Brown
Meet Jim Brown, Service and Implementation Project Manager at Five Nines (gonines.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
Five Nines was founded in 2006 on an intense desire to solve problems and build long-term relationships with clients by leveraging technology to drive business success. With offices in Lincoln, Omaha and Kearney, our organization advises the best IT solutions for Nebraska-based businesses through Managed IT Services and a unique service model to accelerate client growth.
How did you get started in the business?
After completing my degree in electronics from DeVry, I went directly into field service support and have spent the past 24 years focused on customer service. I have always enjoyed both the mechanical and technical aspects of service, spending time in the fields of emerging office technologies and banking systems before moving into IT managed services with Five Nines.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
While my kids were still young and I was working full time, I went back to school to earn a business degree from Bellevue University. At the time I managed multiple teams spread across five states. Balancing my roles at work, family and school without letting any of them suffer was a huge challenge.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I received a “9” award, designated by the executive team at Five Nines to acknowledge employees they believe deserve special recognition. It was humbling to receive this, as only a limited number are awarded each year. I was grateful because developing my employees is a top priority. I put a lot of effort into removing roadblocks for them. Their comments with the award showed that they see and appreciate my dedication.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife, Jennifer, and I have been married for 20 years. We have two awesome kids, Bailey (16) and Caiden (15). Both are on the honor roll while remaining active in athletics and the arts.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I love to spend time with my family. We enjoy boating, traveling, and being outdoors. Fishing and hunting are also high on my list. In the winter, I like to work on home improvement projects.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Always come from a place of trust.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey. Not only am I married to a small-town girl, but my life philosophy is based on hope and looking towards the future. It also brings to mind my core faith as a Christian.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
I would love to go back in time so I could relive special moments in my life. I would want to savor and appreciate them even more than I did the first time.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
I am on the board for Habitat for Humanity in Washington County. We are building a new house in my hometown of Blair. I am really appreciative of this experience because it allows me to use my skills to help others.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
PF Chang’s because my daughter Bailey has Celiac disease. Not only is the food great, but it is one of the few places she can safely eat gluten free.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 219-4910; Email: jim.brown@gonines.com; Website: gonines.com.