“Salesforce MVPs are exceptional leaders and product experts who go above and beyond to help others succeed in the Salesforce ecosystem.” – Salesforce
What is a Salesforce MVP?
Did you know Salesforce has MVPs (most valuable players) like the NBA or NFL? These are the “all-stars” of the Salesforce world. Salesforce MVPs go the extra mile to share their knowledge and help others to learn and solve problems. OpMentors is lucky to have two MVPs on our team.
I recently had the chance to sit down with our MVPs, Nik and Jocelyn. We talked about their journey with Salesforce and what the Salesforce community means to them. As a newbie to the Salesforce ecosystem, it was inspiring to hear their stories and learn from their experiences. I think you’ll also be inspired by their love for the Salesforce community.
Nik Panter, Salesforce MVP
How long have you been in the Salesforce ecosystem?
My first foray into the Salesforce world was when I did a competitive analysis of the application while working as a partner with another CRM company in 2005. I then became a Salesforce partner and completed my first implementation in 2006.
What did you do before Salesforce? What do you do now?
I started as a support analyst with EDS and became a CRM consultant for SalesLogix (now Infor CRM) in 2004. I currently lead the delivery team at OpMentors. My main role is to ensure we deliver our projects most effectively and provide outstanding value to our clients. I also work with our consultants to develop career paths that align with their goals.
How were you introduced to Salesforce?
Like many apps, I heard of Salesforce while staying up-to-date with the industry. Chuck Chung, Canada’s partner manager for Salesforce, gave me a thorough walkthrough and a review of its potential.
What do you like the most about the Salesforce community?
I can meet so many people worldwide through social media, conferences, and even in airports (through my laptop stickers). We have a common tie and help each other with problems or share our ideas.
What does the Salesforce community mean to you?
It might sound cliché, but it’s like a family to me. Ohana. So many people in this community have become close friends, many of them like extended family members.
What is your favorite Salesforce event or conference?
I think everyone in the community should go to Dreamforce at least once. Just for the absolute joy and learning and networking and overwhelming positivity. I am also biased towards True North Dreamin — Canada’s first user-led Salesforce conference. It’s returning to the masses in 2023!
How has Salesforce changed your life?
It’s given me a career that does not feel like a career. When I started into adulthood, I assumed I would have a 9-to-5 job, work until I got a gold watch, and then retire. I never thought that my career, what I do for work, would become so ingrained and tied to my personal life. Salesforce didn’t give me a career; it gave me a lifestyle. And I am okay with that!
How would you describe the Salesforce community in three words?
Empowered. Collaborative. Family.
Jocelyn Fennewald, Salesforce MVP
How long have you been in the Salesforce ecosystem?
I have been in the Salesforce ecosystem since 2011.
What did you do before Salesforce? What do you do now?
Before joining the Salesforce ecosystem, I worked as a Molecular Biologist. Currently, I am working as the Chief Strategy Officer for OpMentors. We are a Salesforce and FinancialForce consulting company.
How were you introduced to Salesforce?
I was first introduced to Salesforce in 2010 when I joined a previous company that used Salesforce. I worked alongside Machell Enke, the Salesforce admin, to learn the basics of Salesforce.
What do you like the most about the Salesforce community?
I love the community feel and support. Whether it is a question on Salesforce or career advice, I always feel I can ask the Salesforce community for an honest and supportive perspective.
What does the Salesforce community mean to you?
The Salesforce community means having an extended family that is there for support.
What is your favorite Salesforce event or conference?
WITness Success is my favorite community event! I love being the co-lead of the Chicago WIT user group.
How has Salesforce changed your life?
Salesforce has changed the trajectory of my life. After learning Salesforce, Machell Enke and I started our business, focusing on Salesforce and FinancialForce. Almost nine years into our journey at OpMentors, I still feel as excited and energized about leading OpMentors as I did when we started.
How would you describe the Salesforce community in three words?
Energizing. Supportive. Innovative.
Salesforce Ohana
I hope these interviews have inspired you as much as they did me. Our Salesforce MVPs are a living embodiment of the Ohana spirit. The Salesforce community is like an extended family to them. Their commitment to the community is an inspiration to all. The more we help each other, the stronger our community will become. Ohana!
Check out other related Salesforce Community blog posts:
Tips For Learning Salesforce And FinancialForce
What Running And Salesforce Have In Common
Meet Nik Panter: Your Expert In Salesforce Evolution
Meet Machell And Jocelyn: Your Salesforce Success Mentors