Sims Crane, Florida’s premier crane rental and rigging service company, has named Jared Lester business development manager. Lester returns to Sims after working for the company from 2011-2013 as a crane application specialist and helping increase sales $1.5 million annually. In his new position, Lester will mentor the Sims sales force, identify new business leads and help land new clients in new markets.
Lester, who served eight years in the United States Air Force, brings more than 15 years of sales and project management experience to his positon at Sims. Most recently, he was a senior project manager with Durastress Inc., a pre-stressed, pre-cast, concrete company based in Leesburg, Fla., where he managed all commercial construction projects from concept to completion. Prior to that, Lester was a project manager with Berkel & Company Contractors, a specialty foundation company providing piling and shoring.
“After I separated from active duty, I went to work at Sims and really enjoyed my time there. It is great company with the integrity and family values that I respect,” said Lester. “However, to provide more value to Sims, I felt like I needed actual hands-on construction industry experience, which I attained over the past six years. I am excited to be back on the Sims team and working to guide and lead our talented sales force.”
“We are so pleased that Jared has rejoined our team at Sims,” said Dean Sims II, Sims Crane vice president of marketing. “He is a results-oriented team leader who we know will motivate and invigorate our sales force.”
A native of Kentucky, Lester has a bachelor’s degree in business management. As a Combat Arms Instructor for the United States Air Force, Lester earned consistent commendations for devotion to duty, with citations for excellence in training individuals on outstanding weapons knowledge.
“My military experience provided me with solid foundation that translates to business by teaching me discipline, the ability to identify and understand the mission, leadership skills and comradery – these are skills and that I bring to my position at Sims,” Lester said. “My past experience working for Sims was so positive that I knew I wanted to return at the first opportunity. When Dean called, I knew it was time to return home to Sims.”
Sims Crane & Equipment is based in Tampa, Fla.
