Carlton Spotlight: John Herrin
This month, we’re proud to shine the Carlton Spotlight on John Herrin, Senior Business Development Manager in our Life Sciences division.
With more than 20 years in the staffing and consulting industry, John brings experience, discipline, and a strong commitment to client success. His approach to Life Sciences business development is rooted in preparation, relationship building, and long-term partnership.
A Disciplined Approach to Business Development
As a Senior Business Development Manager, John works with pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies. His role centers on understanding staffing and project needs before connecting clients with the right consulting solutions.
Every day begins with preparation.
“Plan your work, then work your plan.”
John starts each morning by reviewing the plan he created the night before. This helps him stay focused on his highest priorities.
His days include client outreach, active engagement management, meeting preparation, follow-up, and network development. Before the day ends, he reflects on what he accomplished and prepares for the next one.
That structure helps him stay consistent while managing the fast pace of Life Sciences business development.
The People Behind Carlton’s Culture
When asked what he enjoys most about working at Carlton, John’s answer comes back to the people.
“After more than 20 years in the staffing and consulting industry, I can honestly say this is the strongest team I’ve ever had the privilege to work with.”
He credits Carlton’s culture of trust and autonomy with creating an environment where people can do their best work.
“The secret sauce at Carlton is our people, and I’m grateful to be part of a team that always has each other’s backs.”
For John, that sense of collaboration makes a meaningful difference.
Courage Creates Opportunity
One of John’s most memorable Carlton experiences came from a decision that required courage.
Rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity, he arrived unannounced at a prospective client’s office. His goal was simple: earn a few minutes of their time.
“Looking back, it probably wasn’t in any sales playbook and it definitely took courage.”
That leap of faith paid off.
The introduction led to a productive meeting, and the prospect eventually became one of John’s strongest client relationships.
“Sometimes the biggest opportunities come from simply having the courage to knock on the door.”
Enthusiasm as a Competitive Advantage
That same mindset shapes how John approaches challenges.
Inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm,” John believes attitude plays a major role in professional success.
“A positive attitude, combined with persistence, often opens doors that talent alone cannot.”
For John, enthusiasm strengthens relationships and helps people move through difficult moments with greater confidence.
Lessons Built Through Hard Work
Long before his career in staffing, John developed the work ethic that still defines him today.
Growing up on a Wisconsin dairy farm, his mornings often started at 4:30 a.m. He helped milk more than 200 cows while feeding calves, cleaning barns, maintaining equipment, and helping wherever needed.
“That experience taught me the value of discipline, consistency, and hard work, and those lessons still influence how I approach life and my career today.”
Those early lessons continue to shape how he works, leads, and supports clients.
Life Outside the Office
Outside of work, John proudly describes himself as a full-time sports dad.
With three teenagers competing in club baseball, football, and volleyball, along with an energetic two-year-old at home, weekends are often spent traveling from tournament to tournament.
“I love every minute of watching my kids compete and grow.”
That same appreciation for growth and commitment carries into his professional life.
Finding Purpose in Life Sciences
While John enjoys the challenge of business development, what motivates him most extends beyond sales goals.
“What keeps me motivated is remembering who ultimately benefits from the work we do… the patient.”
Knowing that Carlton’s consultants support pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies gives his work a deeper sense of purpose.
“By connecting the right consultants with the right projects, we’re helping those therapies reach patients faster and more efficiently. It’s rewarding to know that, even behind the scenes, our work plays a small part in making a meaningful difference.”
For John, that connection reinforces the value of the work behind every client relationship.
Advice for New Team Members
When asked what advice he would give someone just starting at Carlton, John encourages new employees to embrace discomfort.
“Get comfortable being uncomfortable because growth begins where your comfort zone ends.”
Whether it’s making another cold call, giving a presentation, or entering a negotiation, John sees challenging moments as opportunities to build confidence.
He also stresses the value of mentorship.
Carlton is filled with experienced professionals who are willing to share what they have learned. John met his own mentor more than 20 years ago and says he is still learning from him today.
Continuing to Make an Impact
John’s discipline, enthusiasm, and commitment to helping clients make him a valued member of the Carlton National Resources team.
His approach to Life Sciences business development reflects the importance of preparation, relationships, persistence, and purpose.
Thank you, John, for your leadership, dedication, and the positive impact you continue to make every day.
Interested in learning more about internal career opportunities at Carlton National Resources? Visit our website to explore current openings and learn more about joining the Carlton team.
Want to stay up to date on Carlton National news, employee spotlights, and career opportunities? Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates.
