For this spotlight, we’re proud to feature Gerry Hazzard, VP of Sales at Victory Truck Body. Since joining the company in 2018 as a National Account Executive focused on Swap Body systems, Gerry has built a strong understanding of our products, customers, and what makes Victory different. Now stepping into a leadership role, he’s looking forward to growing the sales team, exploring new markets, and helping take Victory to the next level. His customer-first approach, passion for finding better solutions, and commitment to doing the right thing make him a valuable part of the Victory team.

Just to start out: What’s your name and what do you do here at Victory?

Gerry: My name is Gerry Hazzard, and I am the Vice President of Sales here at Victory Truck Body.

How did you get your start here at Victory?

Gerry: Before I worked at Victory, I was working for a leasing company. One day, I came to Victory, known as Demountable Concepts at the time, for a tour. I learned more about Victory’s Swap Body products, and I was really blown away by them. I also met a lot of awesome people in the office and on the shop floor, and I walked away thinking to myself it would be really cool to work here.  

A few months later, I saw that a sales position opened up. It was pretty much fate, so I applied. So back in 2018, I became the National Account Executive selling Swap Body systems. That’s how I got my start at Victory.

Is there a project or product you’ve worked on that stands out as a favorite?

Gerry: Victory’s Swap Body system is definitely it. It’s so unique, and we are the only company that makes anything like it. It’s also neat that it’s not just a commodity, it’s a means for companies to boost their productivity and efficiency.

Selling Swap Bodies is different because it’s not just slinging a product at somebody. We’re presenting a solution to a problem a company may, or may not, know that they have. It’s very rewarding, because we get to watch the customer grow as they get more confident using the system.

What is something you’re looking forward to in your new role at Victory?

Gerry: I’m looking forward to building the sales team, the support, and the structure that’s needed that’s really needed to grow Victory. The sky’s the limit with us, and I see us growing beyond the Northeast. I’m looking forward to attacking new markets, adding new teammates, and building our sales plans and strategy.  

What does “Victory” mean to you?

Gerry: To me, Victory means more than just selling truck equipment. The customer support, the relationships we build, and the way we help customers get the most out of their equipment mean just as much. We don’t sell someone something and walk away. We take the time to understand how customers operate, find out what's working, and look for ways to make things better.  

That’s a long winded way to say, “Victory” means being a cut above the rest. Success comes by thinking outside the box and not doing things just because it’s the way they've always been done.

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Alright, it’s time for your elevator pitch. Why should companies choose Victory over anyone else?

Gerry: Honestly, it's the people. When I bring customers in to tour our facility, they're always impressed by the building, but what really stands out is how approachable everyone is.

I've had customers come in for a tour and end up having conversations with people on the shop floor about how we're building their truck body. That kind of interaction says a lot about our culture. Our people are what make Victory special, and they're part of what customers get when they choose to work with us.

When you’re off the clock, what do you like to do?

Gerry: When I’m not here, I am hanging out with my wife and kids. I got two little girls; one’s heavily involved in dance and the other one in sports and piano. It’s a constant question of “Where am I going today?” But, it’s fun to watch them grow and get passionate about something.  

I would say family is where it’s at.  

Do you have a personal motto or quote that guides you?

Gerry: All of Victory’s Core Values are important, but one that really sticks with me is “Do the Right Thing – Always.” It was actually one of the things that attracted me to Victory, and I appreciate that it's something we genuinely practice here. It's how I try to approach everything I do, and it's something I'll continue to carry into my role leading the sales team.

Just for fun, what’s your favorite food, and what’s the story behind it?

Gerry:   I’d have to say steak, and my favorite cut is prime rib. Growing up as a kid, we had steak very rarely, but every Christmas, we would have a prime rib. It became a tradition and a special treat, and it’s still something I look forward to having every now and then.

Steak is just fun, too; you can cook it in all these different ways. You can smoke it, grill it, and I recently found out you can air fry it.  

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