Jon Bey’s curiosity and hunger for knowledge have served him well throughout life. This combination of traits is how he went from studying finance and management to being WIKA Sensor Technology’s go-to person for all things related to force engineering and applications.
Driven to Learn and Grow
After graduating from Kent State University with a bachelor’s of business administration (B.B.A.) degree, Jon returned to Columbus, Ohio, to begin a career in sales and business development. The companies he gravitated toward were in mechanical services and equipment manufacturing. With his ability to quickly pick up new information, he soon understood the technical aspects of those industries.
In 2021, a WIKA recruiter noticed Jon’s in-demand blend of business, operational, and mechanical savvy, and contacted him about the position of inside sales manager at WIKA Sensor Technology, the subsidiary in north Columbus that engineers and manufactures precision instruments for high-tech industries. His curiosity urged him to discover more, and he liked all that he saw and heard.
“I had been interested in expanding my career into another industry and was intrigued by what WIKA offers,” Jon said. “Ultimately, the chance to join a growth-oriented global company — and the ability to make an impact in its direction — was too good to pass up.”
As the inside sales manager, he was continually exposed to WIKA Sensor Technology’s product lines for force, pressure, and temperature. He also worked closely with customers in high-tech industries ranging from automation and machine building to aerospace and mobile hydraulics, and was genuinely curious about their business and challenges. During his three-year tenure in this position, he also underwent leadership training at Columbus State’s MEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership) program. He also received a certification in EAR & OFAC (Export Administration Regulations & Office of Foreign Assets Control) from ECTI (Export Compliance Training Institute) — knowledge that helps him solve problems for global businesses. His rapidly expanding knowledge base and growing managerial capabilities came at an ideal time. WIKA Sensor Technology’s business needs were changing, and in 2024 the position of product portfolio manager was created for him. Jon easily stepped into his current role.
A Day in the Life of a Product Portfolio Manager
Much of Jon’s time involves managing the product support team. The tasks are many and varied. Some days he works closely with the operations group to develop proposals for new products. “We are currently working on a couple of projects that would add capabilities to our portfolio. Those products would allow WIKA to better serve companies that make weighing systems and mobile working machines.”
On other days, he helps sales identify new application opportunities and the companies that would benefit from advanced sensors. Jon especially enjoys this challenge.
“The exciting thing about force measurement is that rarely are two applications ever the same,” he said. “WIKA’s experience and agile manufacturing allow us to adapt to our customers’ needs. This is what I like most about being the product portfolio manager: the opportunity to work with a great team from around the world to help solve customers’ problems.” All the while, he is satisfying his curiosity and desire to learn and grow.
When Jon isn’t solving problems alongside his customers and colleagues, he likes to spend time with his wife, preschooler son, and dog — especially if everyone is outdoors. Jon also enjoys golfing and cheering on Cleveland and Columbus sports teams.
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