Doug Sheley’s Excellence in Service: Supporting Both Country and Clients

Featuring Doug Sheley, Google Cloud Support Manager

Kelly Hack

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66degrees’ Cloud Support Manager celebrates his 1st anniversary while introducing his new Employee Resource Group (ERG) for Veterans. Sheley’s excellence in service is supported by his loyal clientele and success-driven mindset.

With an extensive background in tech, why was 66degrees the organization you chose to work for?

Coming from Director and VP roles, I wasn’t looking for a specific title, but I was seeking a challenge and a culture where I could thrive. Chris Resch was instrumental in my decision to work for 66degrees, as I witnessed the transformation from Cloud Bakers to 66degrees, and I knew I wanted to be part of that growth. So, when Chris asked me, “Are you ready to go?” I confidently said, “Yes, I am!”

As Cloud Support Manager, what does your day-to-day look like?

I manage four shifts globally, reviewing tickets to ensure we provide the best possible customer experience. My role is to provide support for our clients and those that report to me. I lead tough client-facing conversations to support my team and our goal of rectifying each client concern successfully.

What new projects is your team working on right now? What past projects are you particularly proud of?

I am particularly proud of our recent first large account for managed services — AutoZone. Sean Anderson and I worked collaboratively on the processes and policies, making it scalable for more clients. However, one of the most memorable projects we completed was establishing a Secure Landing Zone (SLZ) for Enovix. Since that implementation, we have implemented a strong process around SLZ and continue to receive great traction in that area of expertise.

From a manager’s perspective, how do you define success and support growth within your team?

When my team succeeds, we all succeed. Whether someone is promoted, recognized by their peers, or is moved into an advanced role at another organization— these are all great metrics for success. Being part of expanding one’s career and growth, whether internally or externally, is an invaluable return on investment for our organization.

We are celebrating your 1st anniversary at 66degrees! What has this year been like for you, and what can we expect moving forward?

Throughout my time here, Ben Kessler has asked me, “How are you doing?” I always respond with, “I’m in the right place.” I still feel challenged daily, but most importantly, I strive to add value to the organization. I hope for 66degrees to be my career’s final destination.

You’re the founder and leader of our new Employee Resource Group (ERG) at 66degrees, which we launched recently. Can you tell me what inspired you to start this group, and what do you hope to offer your members?

I had previously initiated a Veteran’s ERG while working at J.P. Morgan. I witnessed the value in the camaraderie among members simply by opening a forum where people can share their day-to-day struggles while offering each other support for issues such as veteran healthcare. I aim to sustain that same level of support with our Veteran’s ERG. After a recent conversation with one of our newest members, David McDaniel (MAC), and the immediate bonding that took place, I am confident we will succeed.

How will this ERG support the growth of our culture and our efforts in providing a work environment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)?

In military training, you learn another level of loyalty; you will give your life to the person next to you, even if you don’t like them or if they are different from you in every way. I hope to instill this inclusivity partnership in the Veteran’s ERG while continuing to support the importance of diversity and equity within the group.

On behalf of 66degrees, we thank you for your service. Can you share your experience in the army and how that has shaped the person you are today?

My active duty for the Army’s 82nd Airborne gave me direction. I served from 1985-1988, and during that time, I learned to set realistic goals and then formulate a plan to execute those goals. Prior to enlisting, I didn’t feel like I had a clear vision, so it was a defining moment in my life to finally have a path I was confident to walk down.

Your leadership has been prevalent throughout your career; in 2016, you received the Patriotic Employer Award from the United States Department of Defense. Can you tell me more about this incredible achievement?

This was a humbling and unexpected experience for me. A former colleague of mine was spending a generous amount of time focusing on the reserves, and our workplace started to question his time spent away. However, I knew the value of his dedication to the reserves and strongly advocated for his work to be honored. My advocacy spoke volumes and that same colleague later nominated me for the Patriotic Employer Award, where I was recognized in front of several families, including my own. That was a very cool moment!

Your success at 66degrees is evident, so how do you define success at home? What are you most proud of outside of work?

I have two boys, 26 and 23, and this might sound cliche, but as long as they go into the world and are happy doing what they are doing, I would consider that a success as a parent. And when they return home to visit, it gives me even more reason to feel proud.

What are some of your favorite leisure activities or recreational pursuits?

This may surprise many, but aside from being an avid hockey and golf fan, I simply enjoy the delight of mowing the lawn. Riding my big ole tractor is extremely therapeutic while focusing solely on keeping my lines straight and my mind clear.

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