Her Story
About Jennifer
Jennifer Savastino is the Chief Executive Officer of Gannon Pest Control, Inc. in Syracuse, New York, bringing nearly three decades of experience in the pest management industry. Since joining the family business in 1997, she has helped guide its growth from a small operation into an established Central New York pest management company and a member of the Select Exterminating family of brands. Jennifer’s expertise centers on leadership, team building, customer experience, and operations management. She believes in creating a customer-focused organization while maintaining an open-door leadership style that ensures her team feels valued, respected, and supported. She holds both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Le Moyne College and is a member of the National Pest Management Association, New York Pest Management Association, and Women Presidents Organization.
Jennifer’s professional accomplishments and commitment to service have earned her recognition including the Local Heroes Award from the American Red Cross, Philanthropist of the Year from the YWCA, and recognition among Central New York’s 40 Under 40. Her dedication to community involvement is demonstrated through her leadership with Syracuse Challenger Baseball and its Carrier Park project, as well as her service on the foundation board for the Harborview Aquarium. She also participates in the American Heart Association Circle of Red and supports the Hope for Heather ovarian cancer awareness organization. Through Gannon Pest Control, she encourages employees to participate in community service initiatives, including building beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace and volunteering with local food banks. Jennifer’s approach to leadership reflects her belief in giving back, developing others, and creating a workplace where people can grow and contribute.
Jennifer attributes her success to her mother and stepfather, particularly her mother, who worked hard as a single parent to support her education and always believed in her ability to accomplish anything she pursued. Their example instilled in her the determination, resilience, and confidence that continue to influence her personally and professionally. She encourages others to remain curious, never assume they know everything, continue learning, and ask for help when they are unsure. She also believes in trusting your instincts, following your heart, and taking action toward the goals that matter most. Outside of her professional and community commitments, Jennifer enjoys cooking, traveling, reading, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jennifer
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the unwavering support and example of my mother and stepfather, especially my mother, who was not only my best friend but also a strong and devoted single mother. She worked incredibly hard to provide me with opportunities, including the chance to attend college, and she always believed in my ability to accomplish anything I set my mind to. Her strength, determination, sacrifice, and confidence in me instilled the work ethic and resilience that continue to guide me both personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to never assume that I know everything. I believe there is always something new to learn, and I make it a priority to remain open to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities for growth. I have also learned that asking for help when I am unsure is a strength, not a weakness. Being willing to learn from others, seek guidance, and continuously develop my knowledge has been an important part of my professional growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to trust your instincts and follow your heart, even when others question your abilities or tell you that something cannot be done. If you have a goal that truly matters to you, take the necessary steps to pursue it with confidence and determination. Surround yourself with people who support your growth, seek out the right professional circles, build meaningful relationships, and remain committed to learning as much as you can. Most importantly, believe in yourself and do not allow someone else’s doubts to define what you are capable of achieving.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field are the continued growth of services such as ancillary offerings and exclusions, along with the opportunity to better educate customers so they can make informed decisions about the services available to them. At the same time, the industry faces challenges including rising costs and ongoing hiring and staffing difficulties. Adapting to the expectations of a new generation of workers while attracting, developing, and retaining talented employees will continue to be an important focus.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, respect, empathy, and care. I believe in standing up for what I believe is right while remaining respectful of others and their perspectives. Protecting and supporting the people I love is deeply important to me, and I strive to lead with empathy, compassion, and genuine care in every interaction. These values guide how I build relationships, make decisions, and approach both my professional responsibilities and personal life.
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