Getting to Know KBIS Exhibitor Committee member Jason Thompson. By Steven Campeau
The KBIS Exhibitor Committee provides a link between the exhibitors and the NKBA National to ensure that their needs are being appropriately monitored and evaluated. It advises NKBA National on industry trends and makes recommendations for appropriate products, programs and services to meet the needs of the exhibitors and attendees. This important national volunteer committee is composed of up to 10 individuals who represent their KBIS exhibiting companies and serve three-year terms. The national election cycle, happening now through September 30, will include up to four open positions for the KEC. If interested in applying during the election cycle, go here. Today we’re featuring Jason Thompson, Director of Sales at Blaze Grills!
How did you get your start in the kitchen and bath industry and/or NKBA?
In 2016, I got started by accident after nearly 20 years as a law enforcement officer. An opportunity slapped me in the face to become the first sales manager for Blaze Outdoor Products. I decided to leave law enforcement and pursue this new career. After creating the job responsibilities, and doing the job for one year, I was tasked with establishing a full sales team. I have been leading the sales team now for 5.5 years.
What is your favorite part of being an NKBA member and/or national volunteer?
Being able to take part in the growth of our industry and hopefully create an even better experience for the exhibitors.
Do you have a current trend or product that members just have to know more about?
Outdoor Living is still a hot topic. With inflation on everything, many people are slowing down their vacation plans again. My company can help those people vacation in their backyard every day!
What inspires you about the kitchen and bath industry and/or in your life?
Being able to provide customers with a product they want and enjoy. When people ask what I do for a living, their response is always something like “wow that’s awesome.” I never hesitate to tell a stranger what I do for a living.
Where is your favorite vacation spot and does that influence your home decor?
Riveria Maya, Mexico. It didn’t necessarily inspire my home decor, however, in addition to my current job, it inspired the experience we created in our backyard. Our backyard feels like a mini resort with a pool, outdoor kitchen, covered pergola and lounging area surrounded by landscaping and overlooks a river.
Bonus Question:
What are you most looking forward to this year, personally or professionally? (or both!)
Personally, being able to get out and do more by spending more time with friends and family now that things are more normal. Professionally, continuing to help customers build their dream backyards, while learning and continuing to grow within my own position at Blaze Outdoor Products.
About Jason Thompson
After almost twenty years of government sector service, Jason moved into the private sector by joining the Blaze Grills team in January 2016. He was tasked with piloting a new sales program to work closely with and to partner with new wholesale distributors in order to grow the Blaze brand in North America. In early 2017, he was promoted to Director of Sales and directed to hire a full sales team. His Blaze sales team and wholesale distribution partners together have grown the Blaze brand from 200 brick and mortar retailers in 2016 to over 1,400 brick and mortar retailers today.
