Team Member Spotlight: Jeff McDaniel

As the Director of Sales and Business Development at Tech Logic, Jeff McDaniel is responsible for ensuring the success of Tech Logic's Solutions Specialists as they help libraries engage in project planning and strategy. Jeff also serves on Tech Logic's executive leadership team. Before Tech Logic, Jeff served as VP of Sales and Business Development at Baker & Taylor LLC for more than 30 years. Because of his ongoing experience with libraries in North America, Jeff understands library needs and delivers effective solutions for Tech Logic's customers.  

To help us get to know Jeff, we asked him a few questions:

How long have you been with Tech Logic?

I joined the team at Tech Logic in January of 2019, so it's been over 6 years.

How did you get started at Tech Logic?

Tech Logic’s president, Gary Kirk, was looking for someone to help with sales and the sales team, and I was available. We have had a long-standing and trusted friendship since 2003, and possibly even before that.  

“Tech Logic needed a strong sales leader with an impeccable track record in the library profession,” Gary said. “I knew Jeff from my years of working with him and Baker & Taylor, as their CLS program was getting started.  I came to appreciate his industry knowledge, sales leadership experience, and his relationships with so many libraries and librarians. Over the years, we became friends, and I had always hoped that there might be a time when we could work on the same team. When that time came, I did not hesitate to get him on the Tech Logic team.  It’s been a winning strategy for Jeff, for me, for librarians, and for Tech Logic.  There is no doubt that he is a “People First” kinda’ guy.”

‍How did your experience at Baker & Taylor LLC prepare you for your position at Tech Logic?

Running a large business unit, Customized Library Services and International, I was able to work with some truly fantastic people and leaders. The skills and experiences gained through a successful career at B&T equipped me to contribute to Tech Logic’s success.

How do you ensure the success of Tech Logic's Solutions Specialists?

I believe the most essential part of my job is understanding the strengths and weaknesses of our teams. That understanding enables me to provide each team member with the necessary tools to ensure their success.

What tools most contribute to success when it comes to sales in the library industry?  

There is an adage my father used to instill in me: You have two ears, two eyes, one mouth; use them proportionately. When you observe and listen to the issues and concerns of libraries, you gain insight into the solutions that will transform those issues into positive outcomes—not only for libraries but also for their patrons. One of our most powerful values at Tech Logic is that our people observe, listen, and then create solutions that are as unique as our libraries.

Why are libraries essential for communities? Today, libraries are so much more than a repository of data and information. They are community centers that are essential in our ever-changing world. As we have seen through financial downturns, COVID-19 lockdowns, and other challenges, the library is the central resource that all people can turn to, enabling people to do what they need to do to get through difficult times.

What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned from being in leadership positions?

Leadership is not about me; it's about the team and the organization. We are only as strong as our weakest link, and it is up to us, as the leadership team, to provide all our team members with the tools to be successful.

What do you think sets Tech Logic apart from other library technology companies?

Our team members set us apart—everyone from manufacturing, software development, product development, customer care, project management, installation, marketing, and sales.

Outside of work, what would you like to share about yourself?

I am kind of crazy, so, outside of work, I do a lot of running—from 5k to 50-milers, it’s truly one of my passions and weaknesses at the same time.  For me, running is a physical activity that is incredibly mentally rewarding. I tell everyone who asks, 'What do you think about long runs (over 2 hours)?' I answer, 'Nothing and everything.’ Running has taught me a lot of patience and humility. This year, I am running the Marine Corp Marathon for the eighth time.  

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Tech Logic connects libraries with their communities through dynamic, innovative, and efficient workflow technologies—delivering unparalleled service and outstanding patron experience. Since 1997, we have worked exclusively with libraries to develop solutions that empower library patrons and staff.