Get to Know: Jody Partin

Work Experience

OverNite, forklift operator, 1995 
Bob Jones University, dining commons manager, 1998-1999, responsible for kitchen area and dishwashing crews 
Bi-LO, front end manager, 1999-2001
UPS Call Center, preferred customer service rep, 2001-2008
Nationwide Marketing Group, 2008-present

Education

GED, 1991; Bob Jones University, Missionary Preparation, 1995-1998; Cherokee Wave, 2001

Awards/Certifications

During my time with UPS, I received several Preferred Customer Service awards. In addition, I was recognized in 2017 for signing up the most new Members for NMG.

Total years of experience with the independent channel/retail

12 years with the Independent channel and two years in a retail grocery store

What motivates you to get up and go to work for the Independent retailer every day?

Rising up to the challenge of making a difference in the livelihood of our Independent retailers. I am right there in the trenches with them, and I am willing to go the extra mile.

Tell us about your role at NMG.

I serve as an ROI specialist regarding NMG benefits for both current NMG Members and prospective members. I help our Members in allocating the proper business services (website development, digital marketing, consumer finance, credit card processing, product protection plans, etc.) and guide them regarding merchandising, customer service and business consulting in general.

Why did you want to come work at NMG?

Honestly, I was moving from South Carolina to Georgia and I needed a job, as they say. Once I found out how NMG operates and the mission of the organization, I became a dedicated MSM and embarked on building a long-term career. I enjoy working with both the NMG team and the NMG Members I serve.

Why do you think NMG is the best buying group for Independent retailers in today’s climate?

In my honest opinion, and speaking from years of experience, NMG offers the strongest line-up of business services for the Independent retail chain. We work with all of our manufacturers to get the best possible wholesale price but we offer so much more than that. I have always classified our main strengths as:

1. Lowering the cost of merchandise
2. Helping get customers to the dealer’s store
3. Helping close as many sales as possible
4. Helping lower operating costs and enhance the overall operation
5. Vendor relationship support

What is the most important project you are working on right now, and why?

Allocating NMG Business Services. This consists of helping NMG Members see the utmost importance of website development (with the RIGHT website), digital marketing, consumer finance, credit card processing, product protection plans and attending PrimeTime.

What is your favorite memory from your time at NMG?

I can think of several, but the one that stands out is my first attendance at PrimeTime New Orleans in March 2009. It was right at 6 months since I had started with NMG, and I was still learning how things work. Going to that show really opened my eyes to the unique infrastructure that NMG has and how it truly enhances the relationship between vendors and Independent dealers.

What do you like most about your job?

Serving people. I get a personal satisfaction out of helping retailers solve problems and providing them with tools to make their business thrive.

What else do you want people to know about you and NMG?

I am a devout Christian dedicated to serving my church. I love America and want to see my country prosper. I enjoy watching sports, traveling and spending time with my family.