At Advantive, our strength lies not only in the purpose-built software we deliver but in the people behind it. With every implementation, every integration, and every breakthrough is a team grounded in our core values: Grit, Humility, Drive to Excellence, Integrity, Results Orientation, and a Winning Attitude.
It fuels our momentum and is what drives the continuous improvement our customers rely on. Today, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on two teammates whose work exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and impact: Tori Lue and Joe Mercado.
Tori Lue: The Backbone Behind Our Integrations
When you think of someone who keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes, think of Tori Lue. As Lead Systems Administrator, Tori plays a critical role in onboarding new hires, leading IT integrations, and ensuring every system runs smoothly, especially through change.
From Help Desk to IT Leader
Tori’s journey started at a college help desk. What began as basic tech support evolved into a career of continuous growth. After a role with a government contractor, she found her way to Advantive in 2022 and immediately embraced the fast-paced, challenge-rich environment.
In less than two years, she led 14 IT integrations, including major rollouts for VeraCore and ParityFactory. From data migrations and knowledge transfers to managing SharePoint and M365 environments, Tori’s work has been instrumental in creating a more connected, efficient organization.
Leading with Grit and Grace
Under her leadership, Advantive’s Service Desk and Web Systems teams have achieved record-setting support metrics: a 30-minute first response time and a 45-minute resolution time on average. But for Tori, success isn’t just about metrics, but also about mentorship, innovation, and growth.
“At Advantive, I found exactly what I was looking for. The supportive environment and the chance to tackle complex challenges allowed me to develop my skills further and come up with innovative solutions.” – Tori Lue
Her proudest accomplishment? Being trusted to lead through change during acquisitions – a testament to the faith her managers had in her potential. It’s that belief, she says, that helped her grow into the leader she is today.
Joe Mercado: Redefining Accounts Payable
If Tori is the tech engine driving integrations, Joe Mercado is the quiet force transforming our financial backbone. A Senior Accountant with a knack for innovation, Joe joined the Accounts Payable team and quickly became known for his calm, solutions-first mindset.
Process-Driven, People-Focused
Joe’s background spans roles at Lutron Electronics and Shift4, but it wasn’t until he joined Advantive that he truly felt his contributions were seen and valued.
“A lot of companies talk about the importance of culture, but Advantive is the first place I’ve worked where you truly see those values reflected in every single employee.” – Joe Mercado
Since joining, Joe has not only improved key AP workflows. He’s also led projects from gap analysis to full integration with existing systems. His efforts have eliminated inefficiencies, driven measurable cost savings, and empowered the broader business operations team.
Empowerment Through Trust
At Advantive, Joe was given what many professionals dream of: the freedom to reshape a core function. He took ownership of Accounts Payable from day one, presented solutions to the CFO, and delivered results that raised the bar for what a finance team can achieve.
Through it all, Joe credits his team – and especially his mentor, Mickey McGuire – for creating a culture where collaboration and innovation thrive.
Living the Advantive Values
Tori and Joe represent what makes Advantive special: a company where talent is trusted, initiative is rewarded, and values aren’t just words on a wall.
Both stories have proven that with the right support, people can do extraordinary things, whether it’s managing integrations or reimagining finance processes. Their stories are a reminder that behind every system, every improvement, and every innovation, there are incredible individuals driving it all forward.
Interested in joining a team where your impact truly matters?
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