VBE Spotlight on: JEMNI Inc.

JEMNI Inc.

JEMNI Inc. was founded in 2008 by Mark Ellson. Today, Brandon Hlavka is the President and CEO of JEMNI Inc.

JEMNI Inc., founded in 2008 by Army veteran Colonel Mark Ellson, is a value-added company that provides competitive solutions for facility sourcing, supply chain management, and environmental compliance. The company's expertise in paper, facility supply, and packaging systems and design allows it to enhance customer operations by eliminating waste. Continuously updating its knowledge on the latest industry innovations and technologies, JEMNI offers solutions that align current infrastructure with future technologies. In addition to a strong financial standing and ample access to capital, JEMNI also offers comprehensive services including sourcing, logistics, warehouse services, third-party logistics, and transportation & distribution management.

Learn more about JEMNI Inc. by visiting their website at jemniinc.com

About the Business - Passion. Experience. Diligence.

What services do you provide?

"Packaging Distribution and Design"

Who are your primary customers?

"Boeing, Express Scripts (Cigna), Steelcase, VA Central Mail Order Pharmacies"

When and how did you start your business?

"2008. Being an Engineer by trade in the military, Mark Ellson started the company with the thought in mind that if he were to be successful, he would pay it back by only hiring disabled veterans, and people with disabilities. This mission continues today with Brandon Hlavka being the current owner."

Business Growth Challenges - Growing Through Challenge and Change

What were some of the challenges in starting your business?

"The hardest thing for a small business is getting the trust and support of larger corporations. It was a difficult path, but JEMNI Inc. was selected to enter into a Mentor/Protege program in its infancy which led to larger corporations backing our business plan. This then led to a contract with Boeing and the beginning of a very long strategic partnership with one of the top packaging distribution companies in the United States."

What is the key to the success of your business?

"Perseverance and patience. Knowing the sales cycles of our customers and being in position to respond to an RFQ when the customer is ready."

What lessons learned can you share with people to make their business succeed?

" Start with relationships. The first meeting with a SBLO or Supplier Diversity Liason should be an opportunity to learn about them, the company, and just getting to know how they work. They are not likely to remember you, so the second time you meet them, you will know how to approach them with your best foot forward."

What pitfalls should they avoid?

"Do not be over aggressive. Reminding an SBLO that you are out there is great, but it is a thin line between a nudge and a shove."

What other information about you and your business would you like to share with the NaVOBA community?

"I am a disabled veteran and very proud to continue the mission of JEMNI Inc. to create a future for disabled veterans."

Service information

Branch:

Army National Guard

Service Years:

1996-2006

Highest Rank Attained:

SGT. E-5

Why did you join the military?

"Patriotism gained from my father serving in Vietnam, and my grandfather serving in the Philippines."

Military Occupation:

"Combat Engineer"

Biography/Fun Facts

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

"I like metal detecting and I love to golf, but am in dire need of lessons."