The desire for content that’s built for a digital world is constantly growing. Somehow, designers must find harmony between streamlined copy and appealing visuals. Finding a content architect who is a word wizard and has an eye for design is nearly impossible.
The HungerRush organization got lucky when Jess Gonzalez joined the team as our project marketing manager. She's been crucial in developing digital content, graphics, and web pages for our HungerRush 360 POS system.
Not only is Jess a talented designer, but she's also a rock-star teammate who brings positivity and humor to the HungerRush workplace. She has an effortless ability to connect and understand the point of view of our restaurant partners.
No wonder she was nominated for this month's associate spotlight!
We chatted with Jess to find out where her creative journey began and what's meaningful to her outside of work.
Meet Jess!
What’s the origin story of your career?
Before joining HungerRush, I worked at a few different agencies that specialized in everything from web design/development to video marketing to B2B demand generation. Before that, I actually worked in publishing (which explains why I'm so annoying about proofreading everything).
How do your past experiences help you serve clients?
My early career was spent in client-facing roles, which really taught me how to meet people where they are and be their advocate. As a product marketer, that has definitely informed how I think about messaging and content, i.e., always making sure we're using the customer's POV as our guiding light.
What is your favorite part of your role at our HungerRush organization?
I love that I get to collaborate with people from all different corners of the company!
If you could switch departments/roles for a day, which would you choose?
Customer success. I love the idea of interfacing with restaurant customers directly again. :)
Is there a city that you consider "home," and what is the restaurant scene like there?
Hackensack, NJ. I might be biased, but I think our restaurant scene is POPPIN'. North Jersey in general is foodie heaven. Lots of innovation, tons of cool spots, every cuisine you can think of, and – controversial opinion alert – the best bagels in the country.
What is your favorite restaurant or your favorite dish?
El Artesano in Union City, NJ. I've been going there my whole life. It's hard to pick just one favorite dish, but when in doubt, I get the croqueta preparada (a Cuban sandwich with ham croquettes smashed inside) with a mamey milkshake on the side. Heaven!
After you clock out, how do you spend your free time?
Tinkering around in the kitchen, watching history documentaries and cooking videos, or playing video games. I also spend like 90% of my time with my dog, Chewie (and the other 10% probably talking about him).
Besides being an excellent designer, what other secret talents do you have?
I can sing! But that's not really a secret, because I'm a former theater kid who's always singing. All the time. Whether you want me to or not. :)
Thoughts from her fellow associates.
I've worked with Jess for over three years. She is the kind of person who will always find time to support her colleagues and help them shine. Jess is often called on to contribute because she is so super knowledgeable and creative and she always produces great content through any medium. An overachiever, a team player, and an awesome person to work with. Go, Jess, go! -Orly Reitkop, Senior Director Sales
Jess is fantastic. She’s a huge asset to our marketing team and to HungerRush. She has a great combination of creative talent and technical skill that leads us to rely on her to develop all kinds of assets – videos, presentation decks, graphics, and even website pages. On top of it all, she’s always a pleasure to work with. I’m not sure where our team would be without Jess. -David Werner, Vice President of B2B Product Marketing
Jess is the epitome of professionalism with grace. I have come to know her as a dedicated and compassionate person with a deep sense of integrity. She takes pride in everything she does, whether it’s a massive project or a one-on-one touch-base meeting. Jess’ perspective at work and in life challenges me to grow and be a more thoughtful person. If there were a Jess Gonzalez fan club, I’d be the president of it, though I suspect I’d have to battle some folks for the honor. She’s also a total nerd, which fills me with delight. -Lukus Estok, Senior Manager of Onboarding
The last bite.
Jess is a valuable and integral piece of the HungerRush organization. We are grateful for her creative knowledge and dedication to detail.
And we all love when her pup Chewie makes a guest appearance during team meetings.
Thank you, Jess, for everything you've done so far and for your contributions yet to come!
Stay tuned as we continue to feature many more Menufy and HungerRush employees throughout the year.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Melissa Dimmitt, Marketing Manager
Melissa began her digital marketing career nearly a decade ago at a restaurant group. She worked with restaurant managers and executive chefs while coordinating seasonal menu releases, executing photoshoots, and creating fresh digital content.