Brendan Egan, ServiceMaster Brands VP and USMCR Colonel, reflects on military service shaping his leadership; Egan emphasizes mission focus, continuous learning as key lessons transferred to civilian career

Veteran’s Day holds special significance for Brendan Egan, ServiceMaster Brands VP Commercial Sales; Colonel, USMCR. It is a day to honor the sacrifices of all veterans and reflect on the experiences that have shaped him. It is also a day to express gratitude for the opportunities and freedoms we enjoy.

Brendan’s journey to the military was deeply influenced by his family’s strong sense of service. With a grandfather who served in the Coast Guard during WWII and a father and uncle who served in the Marine Corps from Vietnam through the first Gulf War, Brendan grew up inspired by their stories of sacrifice and dedication. This legacy of service, combined with a desire to challenge himself and be part of something greater, led him to join the military.

During his time in the Marine Corps, Brendan developed a leadership style rooted in discipline, integrity, and accountability. He learned the importance of clear communication, decisive action, and leading by example. The demanding nature of military life honed his ability to adapt to change, overcome obstacles, and build strong teams. These experiences have profoundly shaped his approach to leadership in his civilian career.

One of the most valuable lessons Brendan carried from his military service into his civilian roles is the importance of mission focus. Whether executing a military operation or driving a corporate initiative, staying focused on the end goal is crucial. Additionally, the military’s emphasis on continuous learning and professional development has been a guiding principle in his career.

Transitioning from military to civilian life presented its own set of challenges for Brendan. Moving from a structured military environment to the less rigid civilian workplace required significant adjustment. He had to adapt to a different pace of life and acquire new skills to succeed in his civilian career. The camaraderie and sense of purpose he experienced in the military were initially missed, but he found new ways to connect and find meaning in his civilian roles.

Today, Brendan serves as the Vice President of Commercial Sales for both ServiceMaster Clean and ServiceMaster Restore. In this role, he leads several key initiatives, including blending commercial sales efforts across brands and increasing sales and retention within the Restore and Clean portfolios. His military experience continues to influence his approach, bringing a strong work ethic, a focus on results, and a commitment to excellence. Brendan leverages his leadership skills to motivate and inspire teams, always seeking ways to improve processes and drive innovation.

ServiceMaster Brands supports veterans and their families through various programs and initiatives including a partnership with Hire Heroes USA. Brendan, who currently serves in the Marine Corps Reserve as a Colonel working for the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the Pentagon, appreciates the enthusiastic support from the leadership team at ServiceMaster for his service and career.

For veterans transitioning to civilian careers, Brendan advises leveraging the unique skills and experiences gained in the military. He emphasizes the importance of networking with other veterans, seeking mentorship, and being proactive in the job search. Highlighting leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and a strong work ethic can make a significant difference.

Balancing professional responsibilities with personal life is a constant challenge for Brendan. He prioritizes effective time management, setting clear boundaries, and delegating tasks when possible. Making time for hobbies and spending quality time with family and friends is also essential. Looking ahead, Brendan aims to continue growing his career at ServiceMaster Brands, taking on more challenging leadership roles.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Brendan and all veterans for their unwavering dedication and service. The sacrifices and commitment to protecting our freedoms made by our servicemen and women are deeply appreciated and we honor the bravery and the countless contributions they have made to our nation. Thank you for your service.