Today makes a difference: Jess Pontious’ mission-driven leadership at Hunger Task Force.
In the small town of Enid, Oklahoma, where grain elevators outnumber restaurants, began the story of Jess Pontious, now the Chief Operating Officer of Hunger Task Force.
But like most meaningful journeys, her path to purpose wasn't linear.
Jess’ career trajectory reads like a masterclass in embracing the unexpected.
From playing college basketball to selling tennis shoes at Foot Locker, she navigated through retail giants like Home Depot, Target, and Amazon.
"A bit nonlinear as most paths are," she reflects, her voice carrying the wisdom of someone who's learned to appreciate every twist and turn.
This journey ultimately led Jess to Hunger Task Force, where cost savings don't fill billionaires' pockets but instead feed more hungry people.
Behind her success stands a powerful influence: her mother, one of the first female ER doctors in Oklahoma.
"It's going to sound cliché," Jess admits, "but it really is my mom."
This early example of breaking barriers and prioritizing impact over opinion would shape her own leadership style.
Behind her success stands a powerful influence: her mother, one of the first female ER doctors in Oklahoma.
"It's going to sound cliché," Pontius admits, "but it really is my mom."
This early example of breaking barriers and prioritizing impact over opinion would shape her own leadership style.
The real turning point in her leadership philosophy came from an unexpected place.
While managing a Home Depot store, a confrontation with a contractor who demanded to speak to "the man-ager" opened Jess’ eyes to the reality of workplace bias.
Instead of letting this moment defeat her, Jess transformed it into a catalyst for change, later establishing women's support networks and championing inclusive environments throughout her career.
Today, Jess measures success differently than her younger self did.
Gone are the days of chasing titles and promotions at the expense of personal fulfillment.
"Today is enough," Jess shares, finding joy in the pilgrimage rather than fixating on the destination. "My interactions with my team and those we serve, those are what drive me."
Jess’ story serves as a reminder that leadership isn't just about climbing ladders – it's about building elevators that lift others up.
For those following in her footsteps, Jess offers wisdom earned through experience: embrace imposter syndrome, welcome failure as a teacher, and trust the process.
In the end, perhaps the greatest lesson from Jess’ journey is that true success isn't found in the titles we accumulate or the positions we hold, but in the lives we touch and the positive change we create along the way.
From Oklahoma's grain elevators to Milwaukee's food banks, her path shows us that every experience, even the unexpected ones, can lead us to where we're meant to be.