Chase Strickland, Business Manager at Bandit Lites, was named to the Knoxville 40 best business leaders under 40 years of age.
In the last three years, Chase has led innovation at Bandit with the creation and implementation of systems and metrics-based tracking services that have led to increased operational efficiency. Chase singlehandedly redefined the hiring process, starting with redefining organizational structure, reworking responsibilities, and rewriting job descriptions across the entire organization. Then building an entirely new online applicant tracking system that has increased applicant intake by over 1000%, solving the companies single largest bottle-neck to scalability.
Chase’s focus on internal systems has led to the betterment of many of the core systems that run the company. This has included but not limited to, Inventory Management, Safety Data Tracking, Employee Resources, Personnel Management, Cost Analysis, and Damage Reporting.
Chase has also reinvented the marketing initiatives by building out and leading a new team that is focusing on portraying the wide array of high quality work that is going on at Bandit. This update is still in its infancy, but has led to a drastic shift in content and quality that is leading to increased awareness and new business. Check out Bandit’s social media pages to see the wonderful work the team is doing (@BanditLites)!
Chase has added tremendous value every day at Bandit. Known for his mild, easy style of leadership, as well as his intense focus on quality, Chase has effected large, positive changes at Bandit.
In addition to the business acumen, Chase has given back to the community in several ways. He works with the University of Tennessee Haslam College of Business, College of Communication, and the College of Arts and Sciences. Along with likely being one of the youngest members on this 40 under 40 list, Chase is also the youngest board member in UT history as he serves on the Board of the new UT Natalie Haslam College of Music. Chase works tirelessly through Bandit’s Internship program to interview and develop interns from Universities across the United States
Additionally, Chase is a graduate of Youth Leadership Knoxville and Intro Knoxville. He was previously named to the inaugural 20 Under 20 list when he was only 17 years old. Chase is an alumnus of the University of Tennessee and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration where he completed a record amount of 24 credit hours in his final semester while working towards his pilot’s license before his graduation in 2022. Chase is a fierce advocate for discipline and personal growth and often speaks to groups in the Knoxville area about his experiences balancing work, fitness, and family.
Chase’s recognition as one of Knoxville’s 40 Under 40 is a testament to his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to driving innovation, growth, and positive impact both at Bandit Lites and within the community. With his dedication and hard work, Chase is continuing to grow the family business, ensuring its lasting impact for decades to come.