Lonnie Essex is a seasoned executive leader with over 30 years of experience driving strategic growth, organizational transformation, and operational excellence across global markets. Known for his ability to inspire teams and execute complex strategies, Lonnie has an exceptional track record in leading diverse industries, including technology, government, manufacturing, and federal sectors. His unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration and delivering results has positioned him as a trusted advisor to CEOs and COOs worldwide.
Lonnie currently serves as the Vice President and General Manager for Sales, Channels, and Operations at AVI-SPL, where he oversees a $150 million Federal Practice. His leadership ensures the seamless integration of strategy, employee development, and project delivery. His experience spans managing large-scale global sales pursuits, channel partnerships, and operational improvements, all while maintaining fiscal accountability and achieving year-over-year growth.
In addition to his corporate roles, Lonnie is the co-owner and COO of PamLon Enterprises, a family-owned real estate investment firm. This venture underscores his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to adapt and innovate across business landscapes. His dedication to fostering value-driven relationships has been instrumental in the success of his ventures.
A decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, Lonnie’s military service instilled a strong foundation in discipline, problem-solving, and leadership. Notably, he served as a Senior Networking Specialist and Program Manager at the White House Communications Agency, where he provided critical communications support for President Reagan and the National Security Council. His efforts ensured the continuity of government operations and laid the groundwork for his expertise in high-stakes environments.
Lonnie’s educational achievements include an Air Force Technical School Certificate in Telecommunication Systems Technologies, where he graduated as an Air Force Honor Graduate. Additionally, he has completed numerous executive-level certifications, including the Cisco Business Leadership Program and AMA Executive Leadership courses, which further solidify his expertise in strategy, communication, and leadership.
His global exposure is evident in his roles as Managing Director for Cisco’s Global Enterprise Theater and Vice President of Sales for The Congruity Group. He has successfully led initiatives that grew global deal pipelines, built strategic partnerships, and executed large-scale transformational engagements. His efforts have not only resulted in significant revenue growth but also in establishing long-term value for stakeholders.
Lonnie is deeply committed to giving back to the community. He has served as an advisor to Shenandoah University’s Digital Marketing Program and the University of Richmond’s Customer Experience Program. His dedication to mentorship and thought leadership reflects his belief in empowering future generations to excel in their fields.
An advocate for veterans, Lonnie has been an Associate Life Member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and an active member of the American Legion. He has also co-chaired the Veterans Network Employee Resource Group at AVI-SPL, where he spearheaded initiatives to support and recognize veteran contributions.
Outside of his professional life, Lonnie is a world traveler who has logged over four million air miles. He is an avid genealogical researcher and a member of the Baronial Order of Magna Charta. His passion for history, culture, and storytelling complements his professional endeavors, bringing a unique perspective to his leadership approach.
Lonnie’s personal mission, inspired by President Teddy Roosevelt’s motto “Get Action,” embodies his proactive and determined approach to life and work. Whether guiding organizations through complex challenges, mentoring aspiring leaders, or building innovative strategies, Lonnie is a dynamic force for progress and excellence.
Character:
Lonnie Essex exemplifies integrity, discipline, and a values-driven approach to leadership. His unwavering commitment to excellence fosters trust and builds strong, lasting relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.
Knowledge:
With over three decades of experience across multiple industries, Lonnie possesses a deep understanding of strategic planning, operational efficiency, and organizational development. His expertise in managing complex global accounts and navigating diverse business challenges has positioned him as a trusted advisor to executives worldwide.
Strategic:
Lonnie’s ability to develop and execute high-impact strategies has consistently driven significant growth and innovation. His visionary approach enables him to identify opportunities, streamline processes, and deliver long-term value for organizations.
Communication:
A skilled communicator and storyteller, Lonnie excels at inspiring teams, engaging stakeholders, and fostering collaboration. His ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and authenticity has been instrumental in building trust and driving successful outcomes.
