Avi Jayasuriya

Name
Avi Jayasuriya
Grad Year
2004
Degree
BA
Program
Economics
Industrial Relations
Political Science
Role / Title
Regional Sales Manager
Industry
Sales & Service
Organization
CDW Canada

Q: Briefly describe your current position and responsibilities, including challenges/rewards. How did you go about your job search upon graduating -- what strategies were most successful and why do you think you were hired?

Responsible for coaching and developing 25 Account Managers in territory Attaining revenue and profit metrics Maintaining relationships with over 2000 customers in region Building stratgies to identify new business opportunities Onsite meetings and customer presentations

Q: List the key positions you have held since graduation, and any post-graduate degrees/diplomas you earned after graduation. If applicable, list any other ways you are involved in your profession or in your community (member of a professional association, involved as a leadership volunteer, etc).

Been working at current company for 6 years, since the day I graduated! Active member of Toastmasters International to enhance public speaking skills.

Q: What personal characteristics/skills are most important for success in your job/field?

Work ethic, Overcoming obstacles and rejection, Goal Setting, Organizing your Day, Career Development.

Q: During your university career did any key experiences assist you in making your career choices? If yes, how so? (Internships? Extern Program? Volunteering? Student clubs? Summer job? Mentorship?)

The Mentorship program in 2004 was very rewarding. It provided me real life insight into the career path i was thinking of pursueing. I still keep in touch with my mentor and wanted to give back now.

Q: What have been the keys to your success? What advice would you give to students who wish to pursue a similar career path? If you had the chance to plan your studies and your career path again, what would you do differently (if anything)?

The Keys to Success have been work ethic and goal setting. You can't envision yourself being successful but you actually have to execute and be willing to work hard to get there. For students who want to pursue a similar career path best thing to do is work in sales part time while in school to get a feel for whats its like. If I had a chance to do something different it would be to read more books on leadership such as Jack Welch, Warren Buffett, Michael Dell. Also being more active in school associations to build a strong network is essential.