Meet Local Key Executive
Cassandra Jackson, Brand Manager at The Joinery

 

Since 1982, The Joinery has created handcrafted furniture that’s here for good. That is a reference to our craftsmanship, with each piece expected to last decades if not generations. It’s also a reference to how we do business — a certified B Corp since 2010, we operate with a deep commitment to our employees, environment, and community.

>How would you describe your leadership style?
I would describe my leadership style as empathetic, collaborative, and results-driven. I believe in hiring the right people for the right roles, then working alongside them to foster creativity, innovation, and exceptional results.

>What your top priorities for your role in the next year?
As Brand Manager, my top priorities over the next year are to expand our brand awareness into new markets while deepening engagement with our existing customer base. This includes pursuing strategic collaborations with fellow Portland brands, hosting creative and immersive events in our new Pearl District showroom, and continually finding authentic, visually compelling ways to share our craft. In addition, I plan to explore how we can thoughtfully integrate AI tools to enhance efficiency, creativity, and reach across all initiatives.

>What are you looking forward to in the next six months [as of August 2025]?
After several years on hiatus, I’m excited to share that The Joinery is relaunching our Metamortise Contest this October. This fun, creative event brings our employees together to craft unique pieces from our off-fall wood. All entries will be displayed during the Pearl District’s First Thursday Art Walk on October 2, where the public can vote for their favorite—and be entered to win it. The creativity and craftsmanship our team brings to this contest is always inspiring. It’s an event not to be missed.

>As Brand Manager, what are the biggest challenges you anticipate in the coming year [2025]?
With the home furnishings market still feeling the effects of recent industry downturns, one of the biggest challenges will be inspiring consumers to invest in handcrafted furniture. The key will be demonstrating the lasting value, craftsmanship, and joy our furniture brings—making it not just a purchase, but a meaningful investment in their home and lifestyle.

>What was your first job?
At 16, my first after-school job was at the Wailea Tennis Club in Maui—pretty lucky. As a dedicated tennis player, it felt like the perfect opportunity: a chance to befriend the tennis pros, have an employee discount on shoes and clothes, and even learn how to re-string my own racquets during downtime. Before that, I’d had a few smaller jobs and occasionally helped my dad at our family’s truck rental business.

>How do you unwind after a long day?
My wind-down is a two-step process. First, I work in Portland and live in the northeast section of Vancouver, so my longer commute home gives me time to relax with humorous and storytelling podcasts. Step two begins when I get home. After a long day, spending time with my youngest son—doing whatever adventurous thing he’s into that week—brings me so much joy. This week, it’s playing golf around my parents’ yard (they live right next door). Last week, it was practicing drums. The week before, we had dance battles. If we’re lucky, my husband and our 14-year-old son will join in, depending on the activity. The spontaneity makes it special and leaves the day’s stress behind.


Cassandra encourages EO Members to involve their key executives in Key Executive Forum and learning events geared toward their development! Learn more about Executive Benefits.