At Clickstop, we focus on culture because values define culture.  Values are important because they drive behavior. And behavior is important because it drives results.  So, a focus on culture is a focus on achieving the right results for our organization.

Each quarter, we take some time to recognize a teammate who made exceptional contributions to our culture.  These are individuals who have, and who are currently, committing and aligning actions with our mission, values, strategies and goals.

We give them the title of “Rock Star”, hand them a $1000 check, cool trophy and a t-shirt.  We also take their picture and write a little something about them.

A Continuous Pursuit

Our Q1 Rock Star is our Director of Purchasing, Allen DeHeck.  Allen has been with Clickstop for over 11 years. In that time, he’s already captured a Rock Star award, but he has continued to pursue growth by reflecting on his performance, asking for feedback and seizing opportunities.

This past quarter, new roles and responsibilities were added to his team.  Some of the changes were unanticipated and required him to quickly work through the clarification of vision and expectations he had of himself and his team.  Not only did he rise to the occasion, but as a result of his leadership, so did his team.

Additionally, the new responsibilities put him square in the middle of the planning and execution of safety procedures in response to COVID-19.

For quite some time, Allen has continued to pursue engagement for himself and his team.  This is a daily choice, and requires an eagerness to learn and grow, and humility in receiving feedback along the way. As a result, there is a high level of trust in Allen to be honest and direct, and not offer excuses about his work.

Thank-you, Allen for the impact you’re creating on Clickstop.  As you continue to grow, you’re inspiring others to pursue excellence.  It’s creating opportunities and making Clickstop more sustainable as a business, and a even more enjoyable place to work.  We are pleased to recognize you as our Q1 Rock Star.  Well done!

The Interview

What is your role at Clickstop?

Director of Purchasing

How long have you worked at Clickstop?

11 years

What brought you to Clickstop? 

Tim and Ben needed some muscle to unload blanket trucks…

What are 3 ways you’ve grown in your time at Clickstop?

Many hats – Things have changed a lot over the last 11 years, and I have had a chance to help play a role in a lot of different areas through this time.

Learned to slow down and reflect – When I first started here, we were all trying to move so fast just to keep up with everything that was being thrown at us. As I’ve grown, I’ve realized that moving fast is still incredibly important but also to take a step back and make sure we are working smarter, not harder.

Lead with intention – It’s so easy to be misunderstood if people are trying to read between the lines to get at what you are trying to communicate. Being direct and clear with my intentions in a situation/conversation has helped remove some of that risk of being misunderstood and helped make decisions faster.

What effect has this recognition had upon you?

The recognition is humbling, for sure. Being able to come to work and understand I have the choice to make an impact has always been square on my shoulders, and I’ve tried and worked hard to make the best impact I can. I’m super proud for where I am at and the work put in to get here. It’s also easier to look good when you have an awesome group around you.

What do you believe has led up to this recognition?

I think being able to slow down and make sure everyone is aligned on the goals we need to achieve has helped me be able to lead and make a bigger impact. While in the same breath making sure that we can move fast and make educated decisions.

What is the importance of establishing Core Values within an organization?

It sets the attitude for what’s accepted in an organization.

How do you ensure your work is aligning with our mission, values, strategies and goals?

Leverage TE has a lot of good worksheets to help work through a lot of different scenarios whether a tough conversation or aligning strategy. The strategy document is something I continue to look back at to make sure we are aligning action to meet those goals. Team cadence and updates, the purchasing team is not unlike others but being able to share information in a shared space for others to understand what your teammates are working on is great to get things done efficiently and allow for collaboration.

What inspires you about the work of your team members?

They are great people that care about each other and the work everyone is doing. Everyone wants the best for each other and the company and there is an understanding that supporting each other is a lot easier than sailing a ship a lone.

What message do you have for those who are seeking employment at Clickstop?

It’s not a gas station. If you don’t live in Urbana, I hope you like driving. The people are great, and the food is better. In all honesty, it’s a great place to work and that’s proven through so many different channels in the corridor/cedar valley with recognition Clickstop has received. If you’re driven and are ready for a challenge that changes frequently, you’ll fit right in.

What is one thing you loved as a child that today’s kids would know nothing about?

Riding stand up Jet-Skis

What is the coolest/craziest place you ever been to?

Craziest = anywhere in China / Coolest = Mt. Hood Portland, Oregon

What is your favorite activity that you like to do with your family?

Just hanging out in the backyard playing games, grilling, and enjoying a beverage. Our 8-year-old would much rather be on his computer but our almost two-year-old loves being outside. We got an above ground pool we’re setting up this summer since the pools are likely to be closed, so, that might be my soon to be favorite activity.

What’s something you get wrong almost every time you do it?

Rolling up the power cord like my dad has tried to teach me about 5,000 times.