Just after Labor Day last year, I stepped into a new chapter of my career, joining Ancillary Services Management (ASM) after spending the past eight years in the laundry industry. My background was in sales, and I had the privilege of working with ASM as a client—specifically with Andrew, the company’s president. He would call me anytime his clients were looking for a laundry bid. He was always pushing me to get his clients the best terms possible. While working with him usually meant writing a tighter deal than I had expected, I came to admire the way Andrew and the ASM team conducted business. Their professional interactions always stood out as collaborative, insightful, and grounded in mutual respect for both their clients and the providers that served them.
When the opportunity came to join the team, it felt like a natural progression. ASM brought me on board to continue doing what I was familiar with—laundry! But I quickly discovered there was going to be more to this job, than simply doing the laundry. Beyond laundry, the company connects management companies and ownership groups with a wide range of service providers—from telecom and vending, to solar and more. It was clear that I had a lot to learn.
The transition wasn’t without its challenges. I was suddenly immersed in a new vocabulary, unfamiliar contract terms, and the intricate dynamics of revenue sharing. At times, the learning curve felt impossible, but what made all the difference was Andrew’s mentorship. He didn’t just show me the ropes—he truly took me under his wing.
Andrew invested countless hours on the phone with me, walking me through scenarios, helping me understand the why behind the what. What stood out most was his approach: suggestive rather than directive. He’d tell me how he might approach something, but he never insisted I do it the same way. That freedom to develop my own style, while having his guidance as a safety net, created a supportive environment where I could grow confidently and authentically.
As the months progressed, Andrew continued to entrust me with more responsibility. He recognized when I was ready to take the next step and encouraged me forward. Having that kind of trust and mentorship made the experience of starting a new job—something that’s never easy—feel far more manageable and even exciting.
Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate. Transitioning into a new role and a broader industry was daunting, but with the support and encouragement of Andrew and the ASM team, I’ve been able to find my footing and build momentum. I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the strong foundation these first few months have provided.