River City Six: Rhonda Roy
Eakes Office Solutions is a full-line dealer offering digital copiers, printers, software solutions, managed print services, office supplies, office furniture and design, and many other products to meet the needs of today’s businesses. With specialized sales and support professionals for each of its product categories, Eakes Office Solutions takes a consultative approach to ensure its customers get the right products. Rhonda Roy is an Office Products Specialist at Eakes Office Solutions.
How did you get started in the business? – I started in the office products industry about 10 years ago. It truly is all about who you know. I started initially with a Big Box from a referral through a previous boss and came to Eakes through a neighbor who had been with the company for some time.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The change in how and what office products are purchased. There’s a much larger scope of products these days, and with ever-evolving technology the ability to assist customers, adapt to this change and grow is so important.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Honestly, it feels terrific to be able to sell the ‘local’ factor! Eakes is known throughout Nebraska for the customer service we provide. Seeing this firsthand as an Eakes employee has blown me away. Being able to develop and grow such a loyal customer base feels fantastic!
Tell us a little about your family. – There is my significant other, Eric and our 10 year old son, Jonathon, along with our rescue dog Bronko who is two. I believe it takes a village no matter the size of your family so I’m thankful I have my folks who live very close and are able to participate in many of our family activities.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Typically a day off involves some sort of sporting activity with my son. Supporting him is important. While I enjoy staying busy with activities such as biking and golfing, having absolutely no schedule now and then is also welcomed.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I cheered in high school and college (UNO), where we were nationally competitive. I was captain for three years at UNO. I also coached for Abraham Lincoln High School in Council Bluffs after college and took them to nationals in my second year of coaching.
What are you the most proud of? – Being a strong leader and being involved! I am highly active in my son’s school and local community but also in my networking group through Millard Business Association and within Eakes as my employer.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Keep the faith!
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Womenade of Elkhorn, Elkhorn Public Schools Foundation, Wonder Weims Rescue of Nebraska & Missouri, and Kingswood Athletics. I’m also involved with the PTO at my son’s school, which is so important to me. I’ve served as president for 2 years along with several committee co-chair installments including the Walk-A-Thon (fundraiser), Falcon events, carnival and website.
What is your favorite movie? – This time of year I always enjoy The Nightmare Before Christmas!
What is your favorite local restaurant? – There’s a few! As of late, Farmer Browns Steakhouse or El Bee’s in Waterloo.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be contacted at our LaVista office, (402) 898-3017 Ext. 3592, via email at rroy@eakes.com, or please visit www.eakes.com.