Ruan is happy to feature several of our team members across the country in our People First Spotlight. This month, meet one of our newest Ruan team members, Heidi Leavengood, who serves as Senior Vice President of Accounting.
Q: Tell us a little about your career path and background.
I graduated from Simpson College in Indianola, IA, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting. Upon graduation, I started my career at KPMG, where I held various roles including Audit Senior Manager. While at KPMG, I had clients in a variety of industries and encountered the opportunity to complete a two-year assignment in Melbourne, Australia. In 2013, I left KPMG to work at Lifespace Communities, where I was the Senior Vice President of Finance and Accounting.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working for Ruan?
I joined Ruan in July 2022, so I’m very new to the organization. I have really enjoyed how friendly everyone is and how much pride all team members take in their work. Everyone I have talked to has been more than willing to take time from their busy schedules to help me learn about both Ruan and the trucking industry.
Q: What is your favorite memory during your time at Ruan?
My favorite memory so far has been the Driver and Operation of the Year Award Ceremony. Many companies do not take the time to celebrate their employees’ accomplishments, so I think it says a lot about Ruan’s values that we do.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I live in West Des Moines with my husband and our five-year old son. In our free time, we enjoy riding bikes, boating, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, and spending time with friends.
Q: In what ways are you involved in your community?
I am a member of the Rotary Club of Des Moines A.M. Previously, I served as the President and Vice President for the Iowa Chapter of Financial Executives International, and am also a graduate of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute.
Q: What advice would you share with those considering joining the trucking industry?
Get ready to learn as it is a great industry! I have been at Ruan for approximately two months and have learned something new every day.