Mary Ann Kerr
VP Client Operations

Q.  How did you get into this field?

A.  I have two marketing degrees from Seton Hall, including an MBA.  TMP Direct was my first job after getting the MBA — I took an entry level job in client services.  But I haven't been here continuously since then.  My husband's job has caused us to move.  This is actually my third stint with TMP Direct.

Q.  What's the best thing about TMP Direct — why do you keep coming back?

A.  It's the people.  I have learned so much from so many people here. And I've known so many of them for over 15 years. We don't have a lot of turnover and we try to make this a fair, comfortable working environment for everyone who's willing to embrace our objective of providing excellent service. 

Q.  What changes have you seen in the customer care industry over the years?

A.  One thing is that both clients and consumers have grown more sophisticated about how customer care should work.  Customers are more saavy now, they're more demanding.  They know what they want and they're not afraid to take their business to the company that treats them best.

Q.  What changes would you like to see in the customer service industry?

A.  The change I'd most like to see applies to all businesses, not just those involved in customer care.  I wish companies were more focused on doing good.  I'd like to see more company-supported volunteering, more donations.  TMP Direct supports numerous local and other charities and I think that's very important.

Q.  What do you do in your spare time?

A.  With two children — a daughter and a son who are 8 and 4 — I don't have much spare time!  I love doing stuff with my kids.  Otherwise I'm a big sports spectator.  I love basketball.  March Madness is my favorite time of year.

Q.  What's the last book you read and your favorite movie?

A.  I just reread Pride and Prejudice, and I loved it.  For favorite movie it's a toss-up between Hoosiers and A League Of Their Own.

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