Iona Alumnus Joshua Hunter ’19 Shapes the World of Employment at Indeed
Name: Joshua Hunter ’19
Hometown: Bridgeport, Conn.
High School: Fairfield Prep
Major: Marketing
Job Title: Sr. Global Product Solution Specialist
Company: Indeed
What do you love most about what you’re currently doing?
I most appreciate that I can have a hands-on approach with each client in efforts to positively influence the global job market.
What is a day in the life like at your company?
My current role requires me to collaborate with my internal teams at Indeed to generate revenue goals and product adoption for employers that have partnered with Indeed. I regularly present throughout each quarter the growth potential within a client’s market. In doing so, our team at Indeed can proceed with a more comprehensive conversation to understand the client’s needs and how we can continue to shape the world of employment.
How did Iona prepare you to get where you are today?
Iona rewarded those who were willing to put in the work and show up for each other. It’s a place that allows you to be exactly who you are and follow your interests, whatever they may be. I chose to get involved with as much as I could because I watched mentors of mine succeed when they invested their time and effort at Iona. Iona’s core values helped me shape my career and personal life.
Were you involved in student groups or activities? If so, how did they shape or support your career path?
I was vice president of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, development officer of the tour guide program, a resident assistant, orientation leader, member of the Tara Knights Society, a Kairos retreat leader and member of the Iona Players. Looking back, I don't know how I found the time for it all, but I know for certain I had a blast.
What's your fondest Iona memory?
My best memories come from the brotherhood events and bond I had with my fraternity brothers. Pi Kappa Phi provided many social and professional opportunities for me. The brotherhood gave me the ability to thrive as a contributor to the organization and develop as a better person overall. I am grateful that through Pi Kappa Phi, I was able to be a part of the Journey of Hope - a cross country philanthropic event that raises money and awareness for people who are differently-abled.
Was there a professor, staff member, or peer who made an impact on you while you were at Iona? If so, who and why?
There are so many educators and mentors that I had the pleasure of meeting at Iona that it’s hard to choose just one. However, I cannot speak highly enough about Dr. Hamerman. He was one of the most engaging and thought-provoking professors I had at Iona. My senior year presented me with a fork in the road, as it does to many, and Dr. Hamerman was one of the first contacts I made in search of career guidance. He took the time to sit with me and walk me through my choices and provided words of wisdom that directly influenced the trajectory of my life after Iona.
What is the lasting impact Iona has made in your personal and professional life?
Iona has given me the ability to open doors for my career that would have been a struggle to get through otherwise. Every role that I’ve had so far has been influenced by an Iona alum or by someone who has an Iona connection. That type of network is invaluable and a testament to the University.
What advice do you have for a current Iona student who wants to follow a similar path?
GET INVOLVED! I believe Iona’s greatest strength is that we truly do stand together. Show up and be open minded. I remember saying yes to every meeting, putting my email down on every sign-up sheet and prioritizing the events that had free food. This was my opportunity to get to meet people with similar interests and find my groove in a new environment.
What seven words would your family and friends use to describe you?
I reached out to a few of my friends and family about this and they described me as… insightful, thoughtful, detail-oriented, appreciative, a sponge, honest and inviting.