Kami Thompson: An Ultra Runner’s Guide to Sales and Leadership

Kami Thompson, our vibrant Key Account Manager at Vervint, is ready to share her insights on building a career driven by curiosity and resilience. Her journey is a testament to the power of embracing challenges and the importance of nurturing strong partnerships. Together, we explore Vervint’s evolution from OST and how the company is at the forefront of digital transformation. Kami’s story is a beacon for those eager to seize new opportunities and leverage feedback effectively, painting a vivid picture of success in a rapidly transforming tech landscape.

An ultra runner at heart, Kami brings the same endurance and tenacity from her running experiences to her professional life. She has completed ultra-marathons and even supported friends in ultra races, embodying the mindset of pushing past limits and breaking through mental blocks. This ultra runner's mindset seamlessly translates into her sales leadership journey, proving that transitioning into leadership roles without prior experience can be done with grace and efficacy.

Reflecting on her experiences at tech giants like Oracle and Coherent, Kami shares how focusing on client relationships and team collaboration paved her path to leadership success. Hear firsthand accounts of how fostering a shared sense of purpose can transform team dynamics, creating an environment where individuals are inspired to contribute and thrive. This episode is packed with real-world anecdotes, emphasizing the power of listening and understanding diverse perspectives.

We also touch on the mental fortitude required to overcome personal and professional obstacles. Drawing parallels from sports, Kami recounts inspiring tales of conquering mental blocks and how these lessons translate into effective leadership strategies. From scaling metaphorical mountains to discussing the nuanced integration of AI and CRM systems, this episode offers a compelling narrative on navigating the complexities of modern business environments. As we wrap up, a delightful appearance by Bentley, the first ever dog of Sales Lead Dog, reminds us to appreciate the small joys in life. Join us for this heartening conversation and subscribe for more thought-provoking content and charming stories.

With over 20 years in technology and 15+ years in sales and customer leadership, Kami Thompson has built a career at the intersection of business performance and human connection. Currently a Key Account Manager at Vervint, she brings deep experience in operations, delivery, and strategic account management—always grounded in a people-first mindset.

Known for leading with authenticity and care, Kami believes true success comes from aligning purpose, culture, and customer needs. Outside of work, she’s a passionate runner, outdoor enthusiast, and proud human to two golden retrievers. Inspired by her father’s integrity, Kami is driven to help others reach their goals—on the trail and in business.

Quotes:

"I never let what I don't know stop me from achieving my goals. With determination, focus, and drive, I believe I can figure it out."

"Embracing vulnerability has been crucial in my leadership journey. It's okay not to know everything—what matters is the willingness to learn and grow."

"The secret to overcoming mental blocks is persistence. Whether it's running a marathon or leading a team, pushing past those limits leads to extraordinary achievements."

"Success in technology isn't just about the tools; it's about solving business problems and building strong partnerships that last."

Links:

Kami’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kami-holtz/

Vervint - https://vervint.com

Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/