When Mark Journell began searching for a career in manufacturing after 14 years in HVAC wholesale distribution, Daikin Applied in Augusta County was his first stop. He researched the area, met with his prospective employer, and felt like it was a close enough fit for an initial leap. But just how good a fit it would be came as a surprise.
“It was a culture shock the first time I stepped onto the manufacturing floor,” he recalls. “But I’ve always been deeply ingrained with line supervisors. I make sure I get to know the people on the shop floor and build connections with them. A lot of folks just want to feel listened to, and I’ve developed some tremendous relationships.”
Mark entered Daikin as a Senior Level Buyer of raw manufacturing materials. Within six weeks, he was running the purchasing department. He quickly rose to become a Commodity Manager, and 18 months ago he moved to the Corporate Team as a Strategic Sourcing Manager. Today, he’s not only responsible for ensuring the chain of goods supplying all of Daikin’s North American facilities runs smoothly, he’s also visiting partner suppliers, assessing the quality and quantity of production in facilities across Italy, Malaysia, China, Thailand, South Korea, and more. “I’ve seen the world through Daikin,” he says.
Mark describes his leadership philosophy as one of a servant leader. “I’m always looking for how to help people succeed. I’ve found that many people underestimate the power of giving back. Whether in business, non-profits, or community, I believe in giving back.”
Building Community
Mark’s success within the manufacturing sector was mirrored by his growing work with the surrounding community. Shortly after joining Daikin, he enrolled in the Leadership Greater Augusta program through the local Chamber of Commerce, which he describes as a great program for someone new to the area looking to build networks and knowledge. That experience became a launchpad for years of community engagement.
Mark serves as President of the Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center Foundation, which helps disabled Virginians access meaningful employment by providing them with medical rehabilitation services and vocational training. He sits on Boards of Directors for both the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce and Mary Baldwin University’s Advisory Board of Visitors. Mark also serves on the Augusta County Broadband Advisory Board, “beating the bushes getting feedback from constituents” about the IT services they need to operate both rurally and professionally in the evolving economy.
Much like his manufacturing work, in community Mark is a bridge builder — connecting schools, manufacturers, non-profits, and people to build a more inclusive economy. “I think of myself as an ambassador,” he says. “I work with people who accept people as they are. The question we always lead with is, what are you bringing to help make your community better?”
Finding Home
“I’ve lived up and down the east coast,” says Mark. “Some of the most genuine people I’ve ever met are here. This is the first place I’ve lived where I really do know my neighbors.”
One of those genuine people is surely Mark’s wife, Andrea, a special education teacher at the Churchville Elementary School in Augusta County. They met at a cocktail hour in downtown Staunton back in 2016. By 2018 they were married, and Mark’s family grew to include his now 15 year old stepdaughter Brenna, a straight-A basketball player for Riverheads High.
“We try to keep it pretty simple,” says Mark. “Our faith is important to us. We have a close circle of friends. My life revolves around family, sports, and giving back.”
For Mark that looks like visiting the local golf courses, basketball games with the family, hiking outside, and supporting local small businesses including breweries, wineries, and downtown retailers. “It’s nice to be able to drive easily to a big city on any given weekend — we just went to Richmond to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. But everyday, I can drive anywhere I want in ten minutes with no traffic. There is plenty here to be heavily entertained.” Mark leans in as if to share a secret. “Did you know there are seven local breweries in Augusta County?”
“I wanted to work for a global company, and I didn’t think I would stay here,” Mark says, reflecting back on the path that’s brought him to family, home, and Augusta County. “Now I have no desire to ever leave. It’s gorgeous. It’s a great place for a family. It’s the best place I’ve ever lived.”
