Based in Toronto, Jimmy Vannavong is the Canada Country GM. Since March of 2020, he’s worked to grow StockX’s business in Canada, providing the best and most authentic experience for our Canadian customers. As part of StockX’s five-year anniversary celebration, we caught up with team members, including Jimmy, to talk about life as a StockX team member.
The following has been lightly edited.
How did you hear about StockX, and why did you want to join the team?
I worked for a former employer that was very similar in style in terms of a secondary marketplace. Like many folks who work at StockX, I’ve been a huge advocate of collecting, buying, and reselling sneakers. And I thought the overall business model and the overall growth trajectory was the most intriguing part. So once I heard that they would be opening up an operation here in Canada, I jumped on the opportunity.
What is the most exciting aspect of working at StockX?
The overall collaboration. I get the benefit of working with many different team members, and working on a lot of cross-functional projects, as well. With my specific role, I literally get my hands in everything, from product, engineering, to working with the marketing team on campaigns, editorials, and even launching a physical authentication center. You almost get to do it all. I find it interesting and exciting because there’s not one day where you’re constantly doing the same thing.
Your most memorable day on the job?
The launch of the Toronto authentication center on October 26, 2020. Everything tied to that opening, which included being the only employee for the first few months, and onboarding 20 individuals to run the authentication center. So I was physically on the ground setting up and launching the center, which I do not expect to do outside of my traditional role. I thought it’d be a piece of cake. There was a lot of excitement, and a lot of headaches.
What’s been the most surprising part of your job at StockX?
I’m surprised by the speed of our international growth. We think Globally but work locally—which is why we’ve been successful so far. I’m surprised by how well we’ve adapted to this new work environment, with 100% of it now being remote because of COVID-19. It’s vital for us to over-communicate, delegate, and somehow build human connections through virtual screens to drive efficient teams. I feel everyone stepped up to the plate to deliver an incredible growth year in 2020. I’m both surprised and delighted by this outcome.
How will the secondary market change in the next five years?
Very similar to what you already see in the headlines, It’s only going to get bigger. Folks will be more educated about the secondary market, and the industry will realize this is not going anywhere. People will fully understand that this is a business model where you can securely make money from the market as a full-time job. I think it’s going to evolve.
To see more of our five-year anniversary celebration, click here.
