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

Les presentamos a nuestro Rocketeer.

En Rocket Software, hablamos mucho de nuestros valores de Empatía, Humanidad, Confianza y Amor. Estos valores nos ayudan a mantener a nuestros clientes a la vanguardia de sus procesos de transformación digital y modernización. Sin embargo, este éxito solo es posible gracias a los Rocketeers, quienes se entregan por completo a estos valores fundamentales, aportando su pasión y experiencia líder en la industria a cada desafío que se les presente.

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 

¿Una palabra para describir la cultura Rocket ?

Team.

¿Café o té?

Café.

Proud moment? 

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

¿Cuál es su valor favorito de Rocket Software?

Humanidad.

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.

¿Cuál es uno de tus momentos de mayor orgullo durante tu tiempo en 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.

¿Crees que los valores fundamentales de Rocket Software (empatía, humanidad, confianza y amor) son únicos en comparación con los de otras empresas? ¿Y cómo los aplicas en tu día a día?

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.