We’re excited to bring you another installment of our “Jeengster Spotlight”series, this time featuring Jonathan Stefansky!
Jonathan is the General Manager of our Messaging Service Platform (MSP) business and joined Jeeng (formerly PowerInbox) in March 2020! Jonathan is originally from New York and now lives in Bet Shemesh, Israel. He’s worked at both large enterprises like Goldman Sachs and Akamai as well as at startups. He was most recently the co-founder of Viewbix, which was acquired by Algomizer in 2018. He has a BS in Management Information Systems and an MBA in Finance.
1. What do you love most about your role at Jeeng?
I’m most excited about being part of a great team solving a real, critical need for publishers to help them reclaim ownership of their audience and drive significant incremental revenue. Leading our sales efforts and having a meaningful impact on the success of the business is a role I greatly enjoy.
2. What advice do you have for someone also interested in that type of position?
In general, my philosophy is to do something you love. If you had all the money in the world, you’d choose to do what you loved. If you have to work, you should keep that same philosophy intact and do something you’re passionate about. As the old saying goes, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
3. What is your favorite place you’ve ever traveled to?
The Maldives. It’s an absolutely stunning place, where you wake up and look out your window to endless blue seas. Incredible snorkeling with reef sharks and giant turtles in crystal clear water. It’s one of the the most relaxing places in the world.
4. What are some of your hobbies?
I may not look like it, but I really enjoy running. I’ve done 1 full marathon (in NY) and countless half marathons and 10Ks. I also love playing golf, but with only 1 and ½ courses in Israel, it’s a bit challenging to do here.
5. What is your favorite quote & why?
I have 2 favorite quotes. The first is one my father used to mention by George Santayana: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” I think it’s important to learn from your past and make the proper adjustments and not keep repeating the same mistakes.
The second is from an early boss of mine who used to tell me to “Eat some humble pie, it doesn’t taste very good but it sure is filling.” You can still be confident but not arrogant, and that will bring you a long way in working well with others.
6. What is one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Swing for the fences. When you’re young, you have the luxury of time to take risks personally, professionally, and financially.
7. Which superpower would you choose & why?
I’ll cheat a little here and say be Superman; he’s got the whole package and not much kryptonite around these days!
8. What is your biggest guilty pleasure & why?
I love napping, need I say any more?
9. What’s your favorite book & why?
Causal books. I love the Gabriell Alon series by Daniel Silva. They’re quick, easy, and fun reads.
My favorite business book is The Art of Framing. It’s all about effectively leveraging your language to properly frame things to your audience.
10. What’s at the top of your bucket list?
Flying on a private jet.
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We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about the people who power Jeeng. If you’re interested in learning how our products can power your own company, get in touch with us.
