Lift Off: The Rocket Software Rocketeer Profile Series – Get to Know Jennifer Sheffield

Rocket Software

We talk a lot about our values of Empathy, Humanity, Trust, and Love here at Rocket Software. Those values help us keep our customers at the leading edge of their digital transformation and modernization journeys. However, that success is only possible because of the Rocketeers, who are “All In” on those core values, bringing their passion and industry-leading expertise to every challenge that comes their way. 

Our next Rocketeer to step into the spotlight is Jennifer Sheffield, Senior Counsel, Global License Compliance. Jennifer brings over fifteen years of experience in providing legal counsel to corporations, including ASG Technologies, which was acquired by Rocket Software in 2021. In her current role, Jennifer works closely with the sales teams in overseeing customer adherence to governing contractual obligations, ensuring such license compliance matters are addressed mindfully and effectively (and, of course, with Rocket Software’s core values at top of mind). Outside the office, she wears many hats, spending time co-leading her daughters’ Girl Scout troop, volunteering in her community, travelling, crafting, and knitting when she can find the free time.

Join us as we get to know Jennifer.

Fast Facts 

One word to describe the Rocket culture? Team.

Coffee or tea? 
Coffee.

Proud Moment? 
Raising my two daughters, including celebrating each of their milestones and achievements.

Favorite Rocket Software value? 
Humanity.

Bucket List Destination?
Antarctica.

What interested you in Rocket Software? 

I have been with Rocket Software for a little over two-and-a-half years and came to Rocket Software as part of the ASG Technologies acquisition. Something that really stood out to me was the importance of and emphasis on the core values– trust, empathy, humanity, and love. Rocket Software is not simply talk – Rocket Software endeavors to implement and live out these core values within the workplace and beyond.

When I think back to companies I’ve been a part of, or customers I’ve engaged with, the way we, as Rocketeers, put into action our values, and allow them to serve as guideposts for our day-to-day responsibilities, sets Rocket apart. This focus is not only limited to work-related matters, as Rocket Software encourages all Rocketeers to explore how we can use our diverse abilities and attributes to infuse our values within our departments, across different teams, with customers, and beyond. This sentiment stays true whether I am working from home in Florida, in a Webex with customers overseas, or at company events. I love what I do, and the people with whom I work, and this aspect of Rocket Software is just one of the many reasons why.

What is one of your proudest moments during your time at Rocket Software? 

I primarily focus on license compliance matters, so I assist sales in ensuring that Rocket’s intellectual property rights are appropriately protected (and compensated), while maintaining and furthering a mutually beneficial relationship with each customer. It is about delivering exactly what customers need to be successful while adhering to the governing of contractual documents. To do this, it is important to be able to work with people and have synergy between teams. Anytime I can actively assist in reaching a resolution between Rocket Software and our customer is a proud moment.

I am also proud of my volunteer work with Rocket Software in programs such as Rocket Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE). This program inspires an environment where diversity is celebrated and respected, people are valued for their unique contributions, and where each Rocketeer feels a sense of belonging. In my role as a RIDE Ambassador, I help to vet and spread the word about volunteer opportunities we have with our non-profit partners, such as GLAAD and PFLAG.

Do you think Rocket Software’s core values of Empathy, Humanity, Trust, and Love are unique from other companies? And how do you live by these in your day-to-day role? 

I definitely believe these core values are unique to Rocket Software; nowhere else have I seen these core values discussed, let alone put into action. Further, when I compare Rocket Software to other companies, I see that, by upholding our values, we achieve success, not only financially, but from the personal perspective of each individual Rocketeer. My involvement with RIDE is one way I live by these values, in addition to my daily work. Furthermore, even though I handle contentious issues with customers, I think upon and use these values to ensure that I am working in the best interest of both the customer and Rocket Software. Our goal is to reach resolutions that are mutually beneficial for everyone involved. I focus on empathy and trust to find solutions that are satisfying and complete for the customer.

Outside of work, I also live by these values through volunteering. I am on the Board of the Gator Club of Naples - affiliated with the alumni association of my undergrad alma mater, the University of Florida - where we raise funds to award rising UF Freshmen scholarships for attendance. I am also heavily involved in the PTO of the school which my daughters attend, similarly raising funds to provide supplementary enrichment materials, engaging educational activities, and more to each student at no cost. I also volunteer with various other organizations including, but not limited to, Girl Scouts and Youth Leadership Collier. It’s about showing empathy, humanity, trust, and love by extending a hand and helping others get ahead.

Rocket Software inspires an environment where diversity is celebrated and respected, people are valued for their unique contributions, and each Rocketeer feels a sense of belonging. The Rocket Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE) Program helps foster these beliefs. Tell us why you think DEI in the workplace is so important today?

As a woman and half-Filipino, DEI is important to me. Although I have been, for the most part, treated respectfully and without bias towards my ethnicity or sex, sadly, certain members of my family, friends, and colleagues have faced intolerance, bigotry, and prejudice. Although my contribution is but a “drop in the bucket,” and I am still learning from and appreciating the diversity of my colleagues, RIDE and its associated programs has proven impactful not only to Rocket, but to myself.

Seeing DEI initiatives, like Women Leaders In Technology & Allies (WLIT&A), promoted within the organization is encouraging, especially since women, minorities, and other groups are often overlooked, do not always receive the same opportunities as others, and immediately face bias based upon traits with which they were born. It’s admirable that Rocket Software is focusing on these initiatives, taking proactive steps to eliminate discrimination and bias, to promote equitable practices in hiring and throughout the workplace, and to develop and implement inclusive policies. It is also inspiring to see executive leadership and people like me working together to actively engage and foster these DEI efforts, allowing Rocket Software to be, not only an example, but a pioneer.