Altitude Adjustment: How Connico’s Specialist Retreat Took Teamwork Higher

At Connico, ideas and opinions aren’t just encouraged; they’re highly valued no matter the role, level, or years of experience. We held our latest Specialist Retreat at our office in Hebron, KY, which gave our specialists an opportunity to gather in person, engage in open dialogue with the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), and strengthen connections with colleagues.

The time together provided a platform to discuss company direction, brainstorm solutions, and emphasize professional development. With a carefully planned agenda, this retreat left our specialists feeling empowered and motivated as we move toward the end of 2024 and into an even stronger new year. We asked a few of our specialists to share their reflections on the retreat. Keep reading to hear from Jeffrey Jones, Usman Akram, Tere Ayers, and Vamsi Emani as they share their key takeaways from this impactful team-building event.

Added clarity on Connico’s growth and training strategy

This retreat provided valuable insights into Connico’s growth strategy, and it allowed us to give direct feedback to the SLT. With the company expanding, the need for standardized training materials has become crucial, especially as analysts transition into specialists and as current specialists move into leadership positions.

During the retreat, we discussed the resources that have been developed over the past nine months. These will help new hires, analysts, and specialists work more effectively and ensure they’re following the Connico way. The retreat exceeded my expectations, and we left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear direction as we move into 2025 and beyond.

Jeffrey Jones, Senior Cost Specialist

Empowering specialists through ownership and collaboration

This retreat was unique because it was planned entirely by the specialists, allowing us to take full ownership of the event. Connico entrusted us with every detail, from selecting the venue to designing the agenda, and that allowed us to focus on what matters most to our roles and clients.

The in-person discussions were invaluable. We explored ways to improve our work processes and discussed methodologies for continuous improvement. The energy in the room was contagious, and these conversations will help drive our high-performing team forward. This retreat reminded me why Connico is such a special place to work.

Usman Akram, Project Specialist

Open dialogue prompted an engaged experience

Coming into this retreat, I wasn’t sure what to expect after attending the virtual spring event, but I was pleasantly surprised! The coaching on feedback that we’ve received throughout the year is really starting to show results. We had a great opportunity to speak directly with the SLT about where Connico is headed, and it felt like all voices were heard.

What stood out was how balanced the conversations were—no one person dominated, and everyone had a chance to contribute. The variety in the agenda, with shorter, more focused sessions, kept me engaged. It was also a personal highlight to finally meet several of my newer colleagues face-to-face after only seeing them virtually.

Tere Ayers, Cost Specialist

Stronger connections and a commitment to positive change

Meeting colleagues in person whom I had only communicated with virtually was a highlight of the retreat. It strengthened my sense of connection with the team and sparked some insightful brainstorming sessions.

We talked about improving efficiency, implementing best practices, and finding ways to streamline processes across the company. The retreat laid the groundwork for significant positive changes that will make our team even more effective moving forward. It was a highly impactful event that fostered unity and renewed our shared purpose.

Vamsi Emani, Cost Specialist

Connico’s latest Specialist Retreat was a significant success, blending professional development with meaningful conversations about our future. Our specialists left feeling energized and ready to implement what they’ve learned. As always, Connico remains committed to fostering an environment where every team member can contribute to the company’s success, and this is just another way we live out that goal every day.

For more information about Connico and career opportunities, visit connico.com/careers.