On the Rise: Jenny Brown

Jenny Brown

Human resources and payroll manager | Ziegler Tire & Supply Co. | Canal Fulton, Ohio | Age: 39

What was your first job in the industry?

I began my career in the tire industry as an accounts payable specialist, where I developed a strong foundation in financial operations, vendor management and process efficiency.

What attracted you to the industry?

The tire industry plays a critical role in transportation and logistics, which appealed to me. I was excited by the idea of working in a field that keeps businesses, people and goods moving, literally! Even though it was new to me, I saw the value in supporting something so fundamental to everyday life.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career?

One of the toughest challenges I faced was during a period when our team was short-staffed, and I had to manage an unusually high volume of invoices and vendor communications. Balancing accuracy under pressure while maintaining good relationships with vendors was tough, but it taught me the importance of time management, prioritization and building efficient systems.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

The biggest influence on my career has been my mother. She’s always modeled the importance of hard work, staying grounded and never becoming complacent. From a young age, she instilled in me the value of giving your best effort, no matter what the task, while also remaining humble and open to learning. That mindset has shaped how I approach my career — always pushing to grow, while staying true to my values.

What is your biggest accomplishment in the industry?

Coming into the tire industry with no prior experience, my biggest accomplishment has been how quickly I adapted. Within months, I not only mastered the accounts payable responsibilities but also became a go to person for others when it came to vendor systems, reporting and internal process questions. It felt good to earn that level of trust.

Tell us about your current job and responsibilities. How do you spend your workday?

I currently serve as the human resources and payroll manager, having transitioned from my previous role as an accounts payable specialist. In this position, I focus on supporting our team members in the field by helping them navigate key HR and payroll programs, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. My responsibilities include managing payroll, hiring and onboarding, and providing hands-on support to our employees. I also continue to support our small but mighty accounting team, bridging the gap between HR and finance to keep things running efficiently.

Tell us about your family.

Family is a big part of my life. I’ve been married to my husband for 13 years, and we have two children, a 19-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old son as well as two cats and a dog who are very much part of the family too! We really enjoy spending time together, whether it’s taking trips or having family game and movie nights at home.

What is the most essential professional skill for someone in your job?

Adaptability and strong communication

What song takes you back to high school? (Include the artist)

When I hear the song “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne, it instantly takes me back to my high school days. I actually went to one of her concerts with friends, which was a really memorable experience for me.

If you could start a new career tomorrow, what would you do?

If I could start a new career tomorrow, honestly, I don’t think I would, I see myself continuing to grow and eventually retiring from Ziegler Tire. I really value the opportunities I've had here to develop my skills and take on new challenges, from accounts payable to HR and payroll management. I’m committed to contributing to the company’s success and supporting our team for the long haul.

Do you live by inbox zero, or inbox disaster?

I’m definitely an inbox zero kind of person. I like to stay organized and keep my inbox clear so I can prioritize tasks effectively and respond promptly. It helps me stay on top of my responsibilities and reduces stress.

In the next 10 years, what will be the biggest change in the tire industry?

I see the tire industry evolving significantly over the next decade, especially in terms of becoming more sustainable and eco-friendly. With increasing environmental awareness and regulations, manufacturers are developing tires using recycled and bio-based materials and focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of production. I’m excited about these changes because they reflect a commitment to innovation and responsibility, both of which are crucial for the industry’s future.

What moment in life would you like to live over again?

If I could live a moment over again, it would be my wedding day. It was such a special time, but looking back, I realize I was a bit stressed and didn’t fully take the time to enjoy every moment. If I had the chance, I’d slow down, be more present, and savor the experience without the pressure.

What hobby or activity helps you unwind?

One of my favorite ways to unwind is cooking dinner with my family. It’s a great way to relax, connect, and enjoy some quality time together. I also like listening to podcasts, which helps me learn new things or simply unwind after a busy day.

If it was your job to persuade new people to join the tire industry, what would be your best selling point?

If I were persuading someone to join the tire industry, I’d highlight the incredible opportunities for growth and learning, even if they don’t have prior experience. It’s an industry that’s constantly evolving with exciting innovations which means there’s always something new to be a part of. Plus, it’s a close-knit, team-oriented environment where you can make a real impact and build a lasting career.

What's one thing you would change about yourself?

One thing I would change about myself is to become more comfortable with delegation. I tend to take on a lot of responsibility to ensure things are done well, but I’ve learned that trusting and empowering others not only helps the team grow but also allows me to focus on higher-level priorities. It’s an area I continue to work on and improve.

Pick a celebrity and explain why you think he/she would be a great tire dealer.

Adam Sandler would make a great tire dealer because he’s relatable, down-to-earth, and knows how to connect with people. He brings humor to any situation, which would make customers feel at ease. Plus, his loyal fan base shows he understands the importance of building long-term relationships, just like a good tire dealer does! And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to buy tires from someone who could turn the experience into a comedy classic?