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At Tandym, we know that success is a team sport—and every month, we take a moment to recognize one standout player who goes above and beyond. Our Teammate of the Month isn’t just someone who gets the job done; they embody our values, uplift those around them, and make a lasting impact. Get to know Makayla Ledford, one of the Directors on our Tech Delivery team and Tandym’s Teammate of the Month for January 2025!
Who are you?
I was born in South Carolina but spent nearly all my childhood and upbringing in Johnson City, Tennessee, with my mom, dad, and brother. I was very athletic from a young age and played multiple sports growing up, mostly focusing on volleyball and basketball. Both sports came naturally to me, but when it came time to choose and focus on one, I went with volleyball.
For college, I attended the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and played volleyball for all four years – serving as team captain for three. My passion for grit and hard work shaped my leadership on and off the court, values that remain central to who I am today. While in college, I met my fiancé and we’ve been together for six years with a wedding planned for September. Right now, I currently live in in Louisa, Virginia, where I’m enjoying the peaceful lake life and scenic surroundings. My love for family extends to our three dogs—an Australian Shepherd, a Golden mix, and a Beagle-Hound—who are a constant source of joy.
Would you rather go to a 5-star ski resort or a 3-star beach resort?
One thing I’ve realized is that the older I get, the more I hate the cold. I’d much rather vacation on a beach and relax with a drink in my hand than be freezing on a mountain. I’m just a beach type of person. I once thought I would love living on a beach, but I’m a full lake girl now. I think I’m too paranoid with natural disasters to fully embrace living on a beach. Lake life is easier going and more contained – which is great with my three dogs running around.
Who were your heroes and inspirations growing up?
My parents are, without a doubt, my greatest inspiration. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support, guidance, and the values they instilled in me—hard work, kindness, and always striving to be the best person I can be. They sacrificed so much to give me every opportunity, whether it was juggling my ever-changing sports schedule, where one day it was basketball, and the next, it was volleyball, or dropping everything to drive miles and miles to every single one of my college games.
Growing up, our house was never big enough for my competitive spirit, but that didn’t stop me from playing one-on-one volleyball inside—inevitably breaking something almost every week. Yet, instead of getting frustrated, my parents embraced my passion and made sure I had what I needed to grow as an athlete. My dad, a towering 6’5”, passed down his athleticism to me. From my mom, who isn’t the most athletic person in the world, I get my personality from her. Together, they shaped the person I am today, and I am forever grateful.
How did it feel to be nominated for Teammate of the Month? And were you shocked?
I was completely surprised—I never expected this to happen. I had no idea I was even nominated, let alone by my own teammates, which makes it even more meaningful. Helping them has always been something I love doing, not for recognition, but because it’s who I am. To see that hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed is an incredible feeling, and I’m truly humbled by it. This honor is a reminder that the effort we put in, especially for others, always finds a way to come full circle.
How did you get into the staffing industry?
After college, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of what path to take. I moved back to Tennessee, searching for direction, before eventually finding my way back to Virginia. With friends and family in the staffing industry, I saw firsthand the success they had and the impact they made. I’ve always had a strong work ethic, but more than that, I’ve embraced the grit and determination that come with it. As I explored the field, I quickly realized it was the perfect fit for me. I’ve always been deeply passionate about helping people, but I never expected just how fulfilling it would be to change lives by connecting individuals with their ideal careers. Now, every day, I get to make a difference, and there’s nothing more rewarding than that.
You’re on death row and you have one last meal. What’s it going to be and why?
I’m not hard to please, but I’d go all in—no regrets, no fancy frills, just pure, unapologetic indulgence. I’d start with an espresso martini because every great meal deserves a strong prelude. For appetizers, I’m keeping it simple yet unbeatable: buffalo chicken dip, because let’s be honest, it’s elite no matter the occasion, and fried pickles—I don’t care where they’re from, they’re always delicious.
For the main event, a fully loaded chicken quesadilla, stacked with all the fixings—salsa, sour cream, corn salsa, lettuce, and, of course, queso—because balance is key. A side of chips and queso is non-negotiable and there’s no such thing as too much cheese. Dessert is a no-brainer: tiramisu because why not with a scoop (or two) of Blue Bell vanilla ice cream. To wash it all down? A lineup of Diet Dr. Pepper, ice-cold water, and—because it’s my last meal—maybe a celebratory shot.
You were part of a company acquisition when you joined Tandym. How was that and how is it now?
At first, it was scary. This was my first true “big girl” job. I had already been working for two years, but the uncertainty of something new still felt daunting. Thankfully, our higher-ups were supportive, guiding us through the transition and helping us find our footing.
Coming into Tandym was a whole new experience—an entirely different environment with so many more people—but in the best way possible. The change has been refreshing, pushing me to grow both personally and professionally. I’ve been able to expand my knowledge as a recruiter while being surrounded by a welcoming team that made the transition seamless. The people, the culture, and the opportunity to continuously learn have made this journey a rewarding one.
What’s the best concert you’ve been to and why?
I don’t go to that many concerts and haven’t been to one in a couple of years. However, there’s one that sticks out vividly to me that I will forever cherish: Justin Bieber. I think I was in 4th or 5th grade and around 11 years old when I went. My friend and I were absolutely obsessed with him and got our parents to drive us an hour or so away to the concert. We made t-shirts, had elaborate signs, and were totally convinced he would see us and want to marry one of us. It sounds and was ridiculous, but it was such a good time.
What does a regular day in your life look like as a Fully Remote employee?
It’s kind of regimented and not very exciting, but it works, and I love it. The alarm goes off at 6 a.m., and just like that, I’m up and ready to take on the day. First, a quick walk with one of my dogs—just enough to get us both moving—before diving into my morning workout. There’s no better way to start the day than breaking a sweat, and setting the tone for everything ahead. I’m a firm believer that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I always make time for a good, hearty meal before diving into work. After that, it’s coffee in hand as I get ready for work, fully prepped and good to go by 7:45 a.m. And then honestly, it’s just head down and working. Come lunchtime, I take a much-needed 30-minute break, bringing my dog along for a walk to the lake—a perfect reset in the middle of a busy day and then back at it for the rest of the day. Like I said, not very exciting but it works!
You’ve been a major player working with one of the company’s biggest clients. What does it take to be on top of your game and provide such high-quality service for them?
I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to join this team, but I owe so much of my success to Morgan Jackson, who took me under her wing and showed me the ropes. She, along with Niki Jarzen, helped me navigate the complexities of this industry and taught me what it takes to thrive in such a fast-paced environment. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this team, especially given the challenges that come with working with high-volume clients with highly specific needs.
In this space, mental fortitude is everything—staying positive isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. Every day presents new obstacles, and while things will inevitably go wrong, dwelling on setbacks doesn’t move you forward. Instead, I’ve learned to approach each challenge with hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to kindness. No matter what, I show up, and I’ve seen firsthand that consistency and a positive mindset truly pay off.
What are your goals for 2025 and beyond?
I have the same goal I have every year since entering the staffing world: improve the recruitment process for all candidates and continue to build my pipelines. This business is all about the work you put in and I make it a point each year to continue to grow all my contractors on billing. I guess if I wanted to have a major, lofty goal it’d be to have at least 1 start per week for the entire year. I mean, that’s everyone in the staffing industry’s goal and it hardly every happens, but I’m always up for a challenge!
What is your current TV show to binge and why do other people need to watch?
I have two answers to this. I’m the worst type of person when it comes to watching TV because I’ll rewatch the same shows over and repeatedly. I kind of have this seasonal rotation of Gossip Girl, Grey’s Anatomy, Vampire Diaries, and New Girl. At any point in my life, I’ll be in the middle of doing a rewatch of one of those. I am trying to be better though! Don’t laugh, but I finally got around to watching all of Game of Thrones. I’m pretty sure I finished all 8 seasons in a two-month window. Not only that but I’m all caught up on the prequel series, House of the Dragon. I can’t wait for the next season!
