Eric Ottesen

To succeed or feel valued, some employees need direction, some need hand holding, and some need a lot of positive reinforcement. Then are the ones who are born to run wild (in a good way).

That describes supply chain analyst Eric Ottesen to a T.

“Every now and then, you meet someone who was hired to do one job and do it well,” says vice president of human resources Rob Robichaud. “But then they redefine what their role is, and they take it farther than anyone could’ve thought possible.”

And Eric, who started with the company in May 2014, always seems to be a step ahead of the game.

“If you have ever gotten an email from him, you will not have to reply because he already has answered any questions you could come up with,” Robichaud says.

Whether it’s collecting the company mail, wiping down a breakroom countertop, or even solving some of Western Window Systems’ most difficult challenges, Eric is focused on excellence.

Whatever the task, he’ll employ his creativity to knock it out of the park. And, more importantly, people listen to this employee and will follow him toward a solution.

“This guy can organize uncommon people toward a common goal without the need to exert authority over others,” says Robichaud.

And here are some final thoughts from the HR veep regarding Eric. (Warning: Fans of a certain beloved sci-fi movie franchise may take offense.)

“When I first met this guy, I had no idea how to read him,” Robichaud says. “I thought maybe he was a Star Wars fan, but then after getting to know him, I realized I was wrong because he is cool and wicked smart.”

Congratulations to Eric Ottesen, Western Window Systems’ office employee of the month for June.

Learn more about Eric Ottesen by reading his Q&A:

Where are you from?
Fountain Hills.

What song best sums you up?
“I Do This” by Abstract.

What is your favorite sport to watch or play?
Snowboarding.

What are your hobbies?
Exploring the great outdoors, hanging out with friends, and learning about societies, businesses, and people.

Who do you look up to or admire?
My mom and individuals who go the distance for their families and never give up on them.

Where do you most want to travel but have never been?
Copenhagen, Denmark.

If money were no object, what would you do all day?
Create badass businesses that benefit society — with a cold brew!

What is your favorite family recipe?
Rotini with marinara and Italian sausage (gotta have some Parmesan cheese, too).

What’s your favorite movie?
The Shawshank Redemption.

What is your biggest success up until now?
Making positive and meaningful contributions to the lives of others.

What’s your favorite part of working at Western Window Systems?
Contributing to the success of a winning company and great people.

What is one fun fact about you that almost no one knows?
I grew up as an only child, but I have two half-brothers in Denmark.