From CrossFit coaching to climbing Kilimanjaro, Trent Seed is no stranger to a challenge — and that mindset carries through in his professional life, too.
As Cheetah’s new Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast, Trent brings decades of experience in financial technology, a deep understanding of the advisor landscape, and a people-first approach that reflects Cheetah’s values. We sat down with Trent to talk about his career journey, what drew him out of retirement, and why he’s excited to be part of what’s next.
You’ve had a long and successful career working with financial institutions — what first drew you to this industry?
I served on active duty in the Army before attending college, then used the GI Bill to pay for my undergraduate degree. While in college, I transitioned from active duty to the Army National Guard — and stuck with it after graduating, mostly because I wasn’t earning enough to support myself selling life insurance.
That first job out of school involved cold-calling people all day, reading from a script, and hoping someone would stay on the line. I hated it — but it taught me a lot about discipline, perseverance, and how to handle rejection. Around the same time, I used National Guard benefits to earn my master’s degree from Illinois State. That’s also where I met my wife, Kristin. Soon after, I landed my first job in banking — and from there, everything started to fall into place.
What inspired you to come out of retirement and join the team at Cheetah?
Honestly, I thought I was done. After a long run in the industry, the department I was working in got cut, and I figured maybe it was time to take it easy. Then I had a conversation with Cheetah Executive Director of Sales Brandon Jeffress. I couldn’t be happier to be part of this team.
What’s your role at Cheetah, and what are you most looking forward to accomplishing in it?
I’m the Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast. What I’m most excited about is getting back out there, meeting people, building relationships, and seeing clients I worked with find success and experience growth. There’s something really satisfying about being involved from the first conversation all the way through to the final handshake.
What about Cheetah’s technology or mission stood out to you the most?
The people, first and foremost. From day one, I felt welcomed — whether it was orientation or the Sales Kickoff. Beyond that, we’re on the brink of something big here. Our technology is industry-changing stuff. I want to be part of that.
How has your perspective on work changed over the years?
When I was younger, I was focused on commissions. I had to be — I was starting a family and had responsibilities. But over time, that shifted. These days, I care even more about helping people, solving real problems, and making a meaningful impact. That’s what motivates me now and I really feel I can do that in my new role at Cheetah.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work — any hobbies or causes you’re passionate about?
Kristin and I have three adult kids — our youngest just graduated from college, our middle also has a degree, and our oldest has two kids of her own, so we’re proud grandparents of two!
Outside of family, I stay active by coaching and participating in CrossFit, and I’m a regular blood donor — I recently made my 100th donation. I’ve also completed a full Ironman triathlon, gone skydiving, and a few years ago, I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with five of my CrossFit buddies. It took about five and a half days up and just a day and a half down!
What’s next on your adventure list?
A cross-country bike trip! My wife probably won’t be joining me on that one, but she’s my biggest supporter. She always reminds me, “You’d rather be on your deathbed saying, I’m glad I did that — not I wish I would’ve.”
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out in this industry?
Enjoy the journey! If you’re not having fun, what’s the point? Stick with it, keep learning, and keep showing up — that’s what gets you where you want to go.
