I am thrilled to announce that the Getting to Know series will be sponsored by TEC Services Group in 2024. TEC Services Group is the leading technology and professional services firm in the credit collections industry offering both leading industry solutions along with unrivaled, unbiased, and experienced support. TEC is now extending its services by offering proven, industry-leading technology solutions alongside of our Professional Services to help Clients feel confident in their technology decisions. Learn more at ww.tecsg.com.
Lynne Vellucci could be at home, spending time with her grandkids and volunteering at an animal shelter. But she isn’t. She’s hard at work, helping the team at Certified Solutions as its HR Generalist, but also contributing to improving the company’s culture and making sure everyone feels like they are an important part of the team. Read on to learn more about Lynne, which reality show is her favorite to watch — and read about, and why she never panics.
Name: Lynne Vellucci
Job Title: HR Generalist
Company: Certified Solutions
Length of time at current company: since April 2022
Length of time in industry: since April 2022
How did you get your start in the industry?
I was searching for a new position that would enable me to focus on the human resources aspect of my career ~ I had spent many years in operations and payroll ~ and Certified Solutions happened to be searching for an HR Generalist at the same time! While they liked my operations/payroll background, they were looking for a credentialed HR person to add to the team. I had studied for and passed the SHRM-CP exam a few years back and have maintained my credentials in good standing since, just was waiting for the right place to settle in.
What is your career highlight so far?
Recently I received my own performance review and one of the owners let me know that I had helped tremendously in improving the culture of professionalism and inclusion since I started with the company. It validated my feelings that focusing on the people ~ making sure that they feel ‘heard’ and work within a culture of respect for each other, for our consumers and for our clients ~ lends itself to the success of the company as a whole.
When or how are you most productive?
I am most productive early in the day and like to review my planned tasks, answer emails, and set myself up for a successful day. Then, before I sign off at the end of the day, I try to look ahead a bit, so I am prepared for what is coming up over the next few days.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
In my two years here at Certified, I have come to admire and respect the two owners of our Company ~ Joanne Possumato and Diana Schobel. They grew up in the business and have taken it into the 21st century with many operational and technological improvements to streamline efficiencies, all while maintaining a family oriented culture. As a WMBE, they set a great example for women in the industry.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I’ve been told I am a good writer, have an easy-to-read style. I also am a very empathetic person and good at hearing both sides of any story without judgment.
What do you like most about this industry?
I think the thing that has struck me the most about this industry is the fact that anyone ~ not just someone with a college degree ~ can join our team and make a career out of it. We have employees that have been with Certified for 20-30 years. They started out entry level and now are the leaders helping to run the company.
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What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
We are working hard to change the perception that plagued the old ‘collections agency’ model – strong arming people for money. We train to come from a position of ‘help’ ~ we are working with our consumers to accomplish their financial goals. Using empathy and really listening to the consumer are two methods that we encourage all our collectors to use.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
Enjoying retirement in my new house, with my grandchildren around as much as possible. Volunteering at a local animal shelter in my free time.
Describe a typical work day.
Working from home has made me more productive ~ I am usually at my desk by 8am checking emails and reviewing my planner for the day. I am easily accessible via Teams to help out employees with any issues that they may have with their benefits, the time clock, payroll. I have a weekly meeting with the owners where tasks are assigned and any HR issues are discussed, so many of my daily tasks are outlined there. Whether its planning for an upcoming work anniversary, scheduling review meetings, tending to the bi-weekly payroll ~ there are plenty of things to do every day!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Any of the Real Housewives shows, especially New Jersey!
What is the best advice you have ever received?
If you make a mistake, there is no need to panic. Pretty much everything is fixable. And if we can’t fix it, we can work around it. Own it, address it, and move on. I pass this along to anyone that needs it.
What are you currently reading?
Just finished ‘Bad Mormon‘ by Heather Gray (a Salt Lake City housewife!). I usually alternate between something like that and then a self help book ~ next up is ‘Nothing Changes Until You Do‘ by Mike Robbins.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
While I am new to this industry, I have had LOTS of experience over several different industries throughout my career. I truly believe that your people are your biggest asset no matter the industry. When employees are treated with appreciation and respect, Company success follows.
Who would you like to see answer these questions?
Val Hoskins, our Compliance Officer.
The Getting to Know series is sponsored by TEC Services Group. TEC Services Group is the leading technology and professional services firm in the credit collections industry offering both leading industry solutions along with unrivaled, unbiased, and experienced support. TEC is now extending its services by offering proven, industry-leading technology solutions alongside of our Professional Services to help Clients feel confident in their technology decisions. Learn more at ww.tecsg.com.