Serving Texas and surrounding parts of the Southwest Region, Carlos Lara applies his 24 years of experience leading Quantum Services’ employees in delivering great service to its clients. He puts muscle into everything, including a previous stint in a high-level endurance race.
In 1999, Carlos Lara applied for the role of Auditor, being drawn to the pay as well as the opportunity to work at different locations daily. Through time, he has come to appreciate that being a part of a growing company brings with it travel to new places, growing leadership skills through self-development, and making operational decisions. As Carlos proved his abilities in forming strong relationships with clients, such as Brewer Oil, he moved up into a manager role, until eventually into operations at Quantum Services.
“I’ve been working for Quantum Services since I was 20 years old starting as an Auditor. Fast forward almost 25 years later, and I’m now part of the Operations Team. Needless to say, I’ve grown up with Quantum Services and have developed each of my management skills here. While I am still learning, personally and professionally, I have built what I believe will become a lifetime career with Quantum Services.”
Continuous Improvement Brings Organizational Change
Over the years, Carlos has witnessed positive organizational change, some of which is attributed to the business philosophy of continuous improvement. He is able to look at the systems and processes that guide the work to evaluate which areas would benefit from enhancements. For him, this concept of improving systems of work is tied to moving up in the company, stressing that employees can get involved by making suggestions for improvements that will have a real impact on service to clients. Being successful at a role takes practice in discipline and executing on good decisions. The goal would be to identify even the smallest gaps in our systems and processes, then go to work problem-solving how to bridge them.
Another way that Quantum Services has changed surrounds how its employees are taught to manage their time. Applying the Pomodoro technique, employees work on one subject for short bursts to elicit the most productivity. Especially with administrative duties, such as preparing for business review meetings, approving expenses, or interviewing a new candidate, this technique serves to maximize Carlos’ daily output.
Free-Time is Play Time
With work and life in balance, Carlos enjoys other adventures besides travel. He participated in the Spartan Race, a three-part competition for strength and endurance. Self-discipline was a key contributor to his success just as much as when he’s in c-stores! He also has a collection of guitars, enjoying the chance to play when time allows.
Changeover Audit Success
A highlight of Carlos’ career was in 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was a time when current client, Yesway, acquired Allsups. Yesway needed Quantum Services’ help in performing PDI Changeover Audits for its over 300 sites across Texas and New Mexico. While continuing regular audits in other sites, Carlos’ team obtained a favorable result by completing approximately 600 audits in a three-month period, on top of adhering to health protocols.
Southwest Fuel & Convenience Expo
To meet Carlos is to meet the happiest person out there. When you meet him, he will treat you like gold just as he does for each of his clients and team members. He says, “The biggest impact of my job is seeing our client happy with our service. Happy clients is a happy Quantum Services’ life!” Have your chance to meet Carlos at the Southwest Fuel & Convenience Expo this June in San Antonio, TX!