J.R. Petnkeu (BBA ’17) has been rising through the ranks at Lincoln—empowering his team and driving growth to reinvent the iconic American brand.
Previously, he oversaw the brand’s East Coast sales operation and helped Lincoln hit 100,000 U.S. sales in 2024 for the first time since 2007. “It’s been a great challenge and a tremendous ride for a brand that is over 100 years old. We’re still here today and we’re continuing to write our history.”
As he continues to make an impact at Lincoln—and navigate complex situations with clients and dealers—J.R. draws on a key lesson he learned from WSB: “I’m keenly aware of the fact that I don’t have all the answers, but I work with the right folks to identify the root cause and help solve the problem, and that comes from my experience at the school.”
J.R. has given back to WSB through student mentoring, and still maintains a working relationship with one of his mentees. “Any time I can help someone, especially a Badger, and share about my opportunities, I really want to do that.”
He’s also passionate about creating opportunities for others at Lincoln. Originally from Cameroon, J.R. immigrated to the U.S. as a child in pursuit of better educational opportunities, and now feels a deep responsibility to uplift others. He helps his team achieve professional success, build confidence, and develop as leaders. “I always tell them that my job is for them to take my job, and hopefully go past me in the organization.”
Read J.R.’s profile in Update magazine.
Learn about the Wisconsin Undergraduate Program.