“From a young age, my parents instilled in me the values of humility—perhaps sometimes to my detriment. I’ve come to believe that humility goes a long way. It’s not a trait that people openly value or readily embrace within themselves. However, I’ve found that I’ve become a better friend and colleague by being a little humbler.”
On the Importance of Black History Month*:
“I spent most of my life in the suburbs of Atlanta, however, few people know that I was born in Montgomery, Alabama — the heart of the civil rights movement. (The Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, pictured in this link, is a National Historic Landmark. It spans the Alabama River and serves as a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement.) Having had grandparents that endured the Jim Crow South and fought for the rights of so many men and women of color means that Black History month hits especially close to home. Although I know, and intimately understand, Black History Month* is a time to reflect on the past and progress made, I’m also not impervious to the fact that we still have much more to do.”
*Read more from Protiviti – “The Power of Education During African American History Month” here
On the People Who Inspire Him:
“It takes a village! I’ve been thankful to have had many people, known and unknown, who have inspired me. I’m inspired by people who are brave and have the courage to challenge the status quo for the greater good of us all—even if that means just being yourself. A few that come to mind: James Baldwin, bell hooks, Bozoma St. John, and Mellody Hobson (she’s not just George Lucas’ wife).”
Javon (front right) and a few of his Protiviti team members
On Prioritizing:
“When it comes to juggling tasks and responsibilities, I’m old-fashioned. My life over the past ten years are documented and strewn across volumes of Moleskin journals. I write down everything I need to do for a given day. It’s the way that I take what needs to happen and pare it down into actionable chunks. The downside of being reliant on a journal means there’s no ‘cloud’ to bail you out if you have a bad day.”
On Packing for Consultants:
“I have it down to a science. When I’m traveling week-over-week, I typically dump my suitcase in the washer and back into the suitcase. Like most management consultants, I travel with an Away multi-wheel bag; they’re indestructible, and miraculously, they’re like the VW clown car — you can cram nearly anything inside.”
On His Mornings:
“I wake up naturally at 6 a.m. I typically try to spend some time writing in my ‘Five Minute Journal’. It’s a good way to start the day with positive thoughts and gratitude. If I’m travelling, I’ll typically skip breakfast. While grateful, I’ve had nearly every iteration of Springhill Suites’ continental breakfast.”
Join Our Team!
We’re looking for more great people – come join us on our journey! For meaningful career opportunities and open positions, visit Protiviti.com/careers.
To Learn More – Follow Us!
To learn more about our company culture, be sure to follow the hashtag, #LivingProtiviti, on your social platforms.
