Debra Leeson
Debra Leeson is a seasoned sales professional with over two decades of experience at UniFirst Corporation, where she currently serves as a Strategic Account Representative in Orlando, Florida. Over her 22-year tenure, Debra has helped companies across diverse industries optimize their professional workwear programs, specializing in compliance with NFPA 2112 and 70E standards, ANSI workwear regulations, healthcare garment requirements, and cross-contamination prevention. Known for her results-driven approach and leadership, she has a proven track record of conducting comprehensive audits and improving program efficiency for her clients.
Debra’s career in sales and management began with roles in retail and merchandise, including positions at JCPenney, before she joined UniFirst. She advanced to Sales Manager, leading high-performing teams, mentoring staff, and driving exceptional sales results, earning multiple awards including the Elite Award, Silver Sales Award, and recognition as a top-performing manager in her region and nationally. Her leadership has been praised for balancing strategic insight with a hands-on approach that inspires and develops her teams.
A graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s in Textiles and Business Administration, Debra combines industry knowledge with strong business acumen. She is passionate about helping clients create safe, compliant, and professional workplaces while fostering team success. Outside of work, Debra values mentorship, teamwork, and building relationships, which she brings into both her professional and personal life, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues and clients alike.
• Sales Certification
• The Ohio State University- Bachelor's
• Elite Award
• President's Club
• Silver Sales Award
• Top Sales Manager
• Champion Sales Manager
• Cambridge Who's Who Registry of Executives, Professionals, and Entrepreneurs
• Shadyside Marching Band
• Choir
• Ensemble
• Thespians
• Minstrel
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence, resilience, and perseverance in every challenge I face.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to “kill ’em with kindness” and always treat others with respect.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to learn as much as you can, be a sponge, do your research, understand every facet of the industry, and always invest in yourself.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is securing appointments and demonstrating enough value to earn them.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in work and life are integrity, respect, honesty, and transparency.