2018 40 Under 40 Yearbook: Shelby Williams, 42

Then: Sales and marketing director, Oasis Hotel & Convention Center
Now: Financial associate, Thrivent Financial

Shelby Williams describes his career as colorful.

Since 2005, he’s changed jobs seven times spanning six industries – from raising horses to managing event centers.

A year after being named 40 Under 40 in 2005, Williams earned his realty license. It wasn’t the best time to go into real estate right before the Great Recession. Ever resourceful, Williams focused on managing his in-law’s horse farm in Rogersville for five years. Afterwards, he went back to school to earn his MBA, at which time he became employed with T-Mobile. Later, he worked at 425 Downtown LLC, John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts and The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. A client of Thrivent Financial for several years, Williams ultimately landed his current role.