Tonight North Bay Business Journal honored 40 North Bay Leaders under age of 40. There were only 2 people who were under 30
Brooke Dunton, 29, President, Wine Valley Insurance Services Inc., Napa
and
Scott Shapiro, 28, Senior vice president, Warren Capital Corp., Novato
This is compared to 6 people under 30 from last year.
Efren Carrillo, 26, Community education manager, Redwood Credit Union, Santa Rosa
Lisa Codding, 29, Chief operating officer and vice president, Codding Enterprises, Rohnert Park
Barry Friedman, 28, Sales Manager, Friedman's Home Improvement, Santa Rosa
Vikram Lal, 27, President and chief executive officer, Metropolis Label, Napa
Vanessa Robledo, 29, President, Robledo Family Winery, Sonoma
August Sebastiani, 26, Managing director, The Other Guys division of Don Sebastiani & Sons, Sonoma
We want to honor 30 North Bay Mavens/Leaders under or equal to age of 30. Some of the people I spoke with at tonight's event did not think there are many young extraordinary people left in the region. Here is your chance to prove them wrong. Tell us about your self or someone you know. We want to acknowledge your achievements.
mason.mavin@gmail.com
Source:
http://www1.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080414/BUSINESSJOURNAL/368960317
Forty under 40 North Bay Leaders
Monday, April 14, 2008
Related Articles
The next generation of leaders makes its mark (04/14/2008)
Last year’s winners of the inaugural Forty under 40 (04/14/2008)
Ones to watch (04/14/2008)
Renee Amochaev
39, Financial adviser, Wachovia Securities LLC, Private Client Group, Santa Rosa
Since coming to Wachovia Securities in 2004, Renee Amochaev has helped her clients manage approximately $25 million in investable assets in the global-equity and fixed-income financial markets.
She started her Wall Street career on Main Street, Santa Rosa, in her late 20s and has been an advocate for the status of women in the financial services industry when it comes to achieving equal opportunity and pay. In 2005 Ms. Amochaev became the lead plaintiff representing 2,500 female advisers in a national discrimination class action lawsuit against Citigroup Inc., which settled the suit for $33 million just this month.
Best advice received: “Trust your gut, know your stuff and don’t ever let fear of the unknown paralyze you. If you’re going to kick up dust, wear cowboy boots!”
Donna Beels
39, Partner, Beels Soper LLP, Petaluma
After earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s of taxation from Arizona State University, Donna Beels gained experience as a business adviser providing tax planning, financial issue analysis and auditing services and by applying generally accepted accounting principles to closely held firms and nonprofit organizations.
In 2005, she launched a new public accounting firm in Petaluma with partner and fellow CPA William Soper and has seen 300 percent revenue growth in just two years. “My role involves developing and maintaining client relationships with the real estate developers and construction contractors we serve.”
Most admired businessperson: “Oprah Winfrey. Not only is she a great business person, but she is also known for giving back to the community.”
Kevin Bernard
35, Associate, Russell & Davis Architects, San Rafael
When not focused on construction management projects – such as the international terminal at SFO, Gold’s Gym, Century Theaters, Discovery Channel Stores and Williams- Sonoma retail locations – Kevin Bernard leads Russell & Davis Architects in embracing innovative technologies for architecture as well as sustainable products and green building practices that will benefit the environment and provide a better future for Bay Area communities.
“My father, Keith Bernard, taught me the value of cooperation and leadership through teamwork as well as how to be a creative problem solver.”
Best advice received: “Life is what happens when you are busy making plans. So, be flexible, adaptive, honest and open to life’s path – because the most memorable parts of life probably were not planned.”
David Berry
37, Partner, Abbey, Weitzenberg, Warren & Emery, Santa Rosa
Attorneys handling all aspects of litigation, from investigation through the trial phase, know that part of their job is to supervise other lawyers who do the same. “You have to be a good mentor. I vividly remember how hard it was to learn this job and how lucky I was to have people like Richard Abbey take an interest in my professional development,” said David Berry.
His greatest accomplishment has been in helping clients who are afraid of a lawsuit ease their fears by becoming active participants in resolving their cases.
Greatest professional challenge: “Demystifying the legal process for clients who have never been involved in a lawsuit. Movies and TV paint a picture of our legal system that creates unrealistic expectations about what it can do for you.”
Brandon Blevans
35, Partner, Dickenson, Peatman & Fogarty, Santa Rosa
At age 29 Brandon Blevans left a “white-shoe, big-city” law firm – where he had to overcome the perception that youth equates to inexperience – to start a boutique Wine Country labor and employment law practice that would ultimately grow to become a merger target.
He joined Dickenson, Peatman & Fogarty as managing director of the Santa Rosa office, where he also serves as a member of the management committee and heads the firm’s Commercial Ventures and Wealth Management Group. Active with both the California and Sonoma County Employers Advisory Councils, Mr. Blevans offers the advice that “if you don’t have time to do it right the first time, where will you find the time to fix it?”
Next professional goal: “Teaching a labor and employment course at a major law school.”
Brody Carlson
37, President, Connections IT, Santa Rosa
Brody Carlson wanted to become a police officer when he grew up, and he realized his dream by serving as a Sebastopol volunteer police officer for nine years. He also co-founded an information technology firm that currently has about 10 percent of California’s gaming casinos as customers.
“My greatest personal satisfaction comes when helping customers understand new technologies available to them. I have always believed in maintaining high integrity and standing behind a handshake and want to do all I can to maintain solid relationships as we begin to replicate our business model in other locations around the country.”
Favorite book: “Way to the Top,” by Donald Trump
Oscar Chavez
34, Executive director, Community Action Partnership, Santa Rosa
Overcoming obstacles is all in a day’s work for Oscar Chavez, executive director of the largest social services nonprofit organization in Sonoma County.
“We continue to manage the Community Action Partnership in an era of declining federal, state and local financial resources while attempting to fulfill the ever-increasing demand for assistance to families in need,” he said.
Mr. Chavez’s goal is to diversify the funding stream by developing a social-purpose business venture along with earned-income strategies, while also expanding private-sector partnerships that can work together to improve the social and economic conditions of low- income residents of Sonoma County.
Most admired leaders: Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Cesar Chavez, Mother Theresa and singer Manu Chao
Meredith Cionci
34, Partner, Zainer Rinehart Clarke, Santa Rosa
As a new partner in the ZRC accounting firm, Meredith Cionci is responsible for managing a variety of accounting and auditing functions as well as tax client relationships.
She says that while the accounting industry is continually evolving, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with regulatory changes in all areas, including taxation. “My greatest challenge is in choosing areas of specialization that I like so that I can focus my energy. You can’t do everything, so you have to find what you like to do and be the best that you can be.”
Hobbies: “I absolutely love soccer and have been active in many women’s indoor and outdoor leagues for several years. I also coach my 5-year-old son’s soccer team in Windsor.”
Brian Crowley
36, President, Brown & Brown Insurance of Northern California, Novato
Brian Crowley has been with Florida-based Brown & Brown Insurance for five years, becoming Northern California president in Novato in 2007.
“It is a pleasure for me to work with a consistent, dedicated staff of bright insurance professionals,” he said. “My goal is to continue to grow Brown & Brown’s footprint in the region through aggressive recruiting of talent as well as through the acquisition of suitable agencies.”
Best advice received: “He who speaks the least, thinks the most.”
Childhood career ambition: Shortstop for the Yankees, but his first job was as a busboy at a steakhouse.
Sean Cutting
38, President and chief administrative officer, Sonoma Valley Bank, Sonoma
When not setting strategic direction or overseeing operations and the performance of the Sonoma Valley Bank, Sean Cutting is guiding this financial institution with 52 employees into a new era of community banking. His objective is to utilize technology to attract a wider range of customers while also increasing the deposit and product base.
“I made a successful transition from a corporate banking culture to a strong community-based institution. My goal is to continue to grow one of the most profitable and respected banks in California and take it to the next level. While this process can be compelling, I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff. Life is too short.”
Hobbies: Cars, tennis, skiing, coaching – but “life as a father with two young children is enough!”
Robb Daer
39, Partner, George Petersen Insurance Agency, Santa Rosa
With responsibility for client management, business development and corporate strategy, Robb Daer concentrates on maintaining business growth in uncertain economic times.
Having built a successful insurance career from the ground up over 15 years with the George Petersen Insurance agency, Mr. Daer expects to double the size of the company in the next five years. He supervises 45 of the agency’s 105 employees and has weathered a number of volatile economic cycles.
“It’s important to remember that you can’t worry about things you can’t control. You must have confidence in yourself and the good people around you.”
First job: Washing dishes in a family restaurant at age 12.
Stephen Donley
36, City manager, City of Rohnert Park
“Multitasking” doesn’t begin to describe the work of Rohnert Park’s chief executive. Stephen Donley is responsible for a $36.1 million operating budget and a $152.4 million capital budget serving 42,500 residents in addition to a payroll that includes 190 full-time and 196 part-time employees plus 513 volunteers.
“Reaching an agreement with the city’s unions to reduce the medical liability by $30 million – allowing the city to have long-term financial stability – was my greatest accomplishment,” he said. “The next challenge involves eliminating the city’s structural operating deficit while repositioning the local economy to be competitive following the loss of telecom industry jobs. I also want to implement the city’s Climate Change Action Plan designed to reduce Rohnert Park’s gas emissions by 35 percent.”
Favorite book: “Alexander Hamilton,” by Ron Chernow
Brooke Dunton
29, President, Wine Valley Insurance Services Inc., Napa
Even before starting her business from scratch at age 21, Brooke Dunton had already been pushing herself to the limit.
“I took three jobs to make ends meet until I could get the firm going and hire staff. I also had to develop relationships with insurance carriers and convince them that we would represent their products well.”
Today, Ms. Dunton oversees office operations to ensure that productivity and growth are constant. Her personal goal is to become a Certified Insurance Carrier and finish her master’s degree.
Best advice received: As John Quincy Adams once said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
Robert Eyler, Ph.D.
37, Associate professor and chair, economics department, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park
In addition to serving as chair of the Sonoma State University Economics Department, Dr. Robert Eyler is also the director of the Center for Regional Economic Analysis. While he considers finishing a book he authored on economic sanctions to be his greatest professional accomplishment, his greatest challenge is getting 18-year-olds to understand basic economics – and to slow down.
“When I was young, I wanted to be a physicist, an historian or a professional baseball player. My personal career goals have changed somewhat over the years, and now I would like to enter university administration with the ultimate objective of serving as a university president some day.”
First job: “A farmhand on my family’s ranches in Valley Ford and Bodega”
Mentor/most admired businessperson: Larry Brackett, Frank Howard Allen Realtors
Sylvia Flores
34, Regional rental manager, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Novato
Managing 32 Rent-A-Car locations in a territory from the Golden Gate to Fort Bragg and from Emeryville to Vacaville may seem like a daunting assignment. Sylvia Flores handles these demands on her time with ease while addressing the needs of about 150 employees and her 3-year-old son, Alex – “I always figure it out.”
Ms. Flores has been with Enterprise for 10 years and aspires to become a regional vice president of the company in the Bay Area. “Two pieces of advice I received really stand out. Always ask questions so that you fully understand what is expected of you, and you can’t be scared to put yourself out there and take a chance.”
Favorite books: “Angels and Demons,” by Dan Brown and “Why the Best Man for the Job is a Woman,” by Esther Wachs
Todd Frediani
39, Vice president, wealth management, Smith Barney, Santa Rosa
In a financial advisory practice, some of the greatest challenges involve coping with client emotions in a volatile market, according to Todd Frediani, a certified financial manager who provides a suite of wealth management services to business owners, professionals and corporate executives.
“Recently I helped a long-time client resolve retirement planning decisions as he left his company. The following week I had two of his colleagues call to see if I was taking new clients. It makes you feel pretty good when you get that kind of feedback.”
Best advice received: “Do what’s right for your client, and you’ll never have to worry about the future of your practice.”
Michael Garcia
37, Partner, Lanahan & Reilley LLP, Santa Rosa
In addition to managing his legal practice and becoming engaged in client development, marketing, hiring and training as part of the management team at Lanahan & Reilley LLP, Michael Garcia also founded California Dream Real Estate. He is also the co-founder of Webhunter LLC, a way for businesses to advertise to customers and for customers to locate local firms.
Mr. Garcia has always had a strong work ethic. “At the age of 22 while attending college full time, I was promoted to supervisor at a financial institution and was responsible for managing 15 employees. Now I want to advance my legal career and practice while still taking time to be with my kids.”
Best advice received: “Make your vocation your vacation.”
Gregg Gayre, M.D.
39, Chief of ophthalmology, Kaiser Permanente, San Rafael
As chief of the department of ophthalmology and chief of cosmetic surgery, Dr. Gregg Gayre treats Kaiser Permanente patients from all over Northern California. He is also a member of the Department of Mohs Surgery, a center of excellence for the treatment of skin cancer.
“I am very proud to be in a position to directly save lives and equally proud of being able to advance my profession by contributing to more than 10 medical texts and by publishing 30 articles in medical journals,” he said. Dr. Gayre’s latest text, “A Diagnostic Atlas of Common Surgical Diseases,” is a broad-ranging guide discussing the pathology, diagnosis and treatment of 120 eyelid disorders.
Greatest professional challenge: “To provide the best possible health care for the members our health maintenance organization while striving to keep the cost of care affordable.”
Brenda Gilchrist
38, Co-founder and principal, The HR Matrix LLC, Santa Rosa
With a passion for human resources management and 15 years of experience, Brenda Gilchrist and partner Gary Hochman co-founded The HR Matrix LLC. She is also a professional speaker and an expert witness for HR-related matters.
”I launched two successful companies and had fun while doing it. My biggest challenge was becoming head of human resources for a company of 200 employees at age 24. I was like the ‘Doogie Howser of HR.’ My second challenge was deciding to quit my safe VP of HR job with a big Sacramento firm to start my own company.”
Hobbies: Competing in triathlon and half Ironman distance races – and starting a company that has become the first-ever nationwide age group triathlon team for women, www.trichic.com.
Sara Grafals
39, Vice president of finance, Infineon Raceway, Sonoma
Finding the right motivation and rewards for employees is a priority for Sara Grafals, who manages the finance department, IT, risk management and personnel as well as legal and compliance issues and is a corporate liaison for Infineon Raceway.
“Everyone is motivated by different things and must be managed differently. Applying optional management styles can be quite challenging. I also have been able to turn a finance/controller position that is typically viewed as the ‘gate keeper’ or ‘naysayer’ function into one that helps find creative ways for departments to abide by the rules and cross-communicate.”
First job: Selling women’s apparel. “I soon moved to shipping and receiving – once a bean counter always a bean counter!”
Best advice received: “Be comfortable in your own skin.”
Dana Grande
36, Vineyard manager, Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Healdsburg
A self-described overachiever, Dana Grande manages 300 acres of wine grapes and almost half of the vineyards’ 75 employees.
“My greatest professional accomplishment was in earning the respect of our foreman, a man who has been working with Jordan Vineyard & Winery as long as I have been alive,” she said.
Ms. Grande is active in industry and nonprofit organizations. She has been board president of the Alexander Valley Winegrowers, a member of the County Winegrape Commission’s Sustainable Practices Committee and director of the Sonoma County Vineyard Technical Group.
Hobbies: “Reading fiction, watching ‘Dirty Jobs’ on the Discovery Channel and hanging out with my daughters.”
Anna Guyer
38, First vice president and branch manager, Wachovia Securities LLC, Santa Rosa
Becoming a branch manager was a major accomplishment for Anna Guyer. “I am honored to work with a group of top-notch financial professionals dedicated to helping our clients achieve their financial goals and live their best lives. My personal goal is to significantly expand the branch and our client relationships, increase the number of employees and grow revenue over the next several years.”
For Ms. Guyer, education is the key to a better future. “That’s the advice I received from my parents. I am the first member of my family to have a college education.”
Favorite books: Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” and “If I Ran the Zoo.” “I have no time to read grown-up books, just those I read with my child.”
Jeri Hansen-Gill
38, Public affairs manager, Napa Valley Vintners, St. Helena
Raising public awareness and helping to shape positive perceptions of the Napa Valley wine industry is what Jeri Hansen-Gill is all about.
“My primary role is managing community issues and outreach efforts for our vintners and to ensure that their positions are represented. I had to learn how to shift gears quickly while also finding time for a variety of projects,” said Ms. Hansen-Gill, immediate past chair of the Napa Chamber of Commerce.
Outreach examples include managing the Napa Green Certified Winery program, supervising a two-year climate study and working with local stakeholders to develop transportation programs for employers and employees. Outreach efforts include Adopt-a-School, Napa Neighbor, Afternoon in the Vineyards, Heard it Through the Grapevine tours and Auction Napa Valley Community Relations.
Favorite after-work drink: “Red wine, followed by red wine, with red wine coming in a close third.”
Adam Heher
36, President and CEO, Swisher Hygiene, Petaluma
In a health-conscious culture, providing proprietary technology and specialized sanitation procedures for lavatories used by customers and employees alike gives businesses an important edge, according to Adam Heher, president of a company offering a complete suite of solutions that set the standard in the hygiene-services industry.
“Leaving a financial consulting position with Coopers & Lybrand to start this business at the age of 24 was both my greatest professional challenge and accomplishment. My next goal is to launch another startup in a new industry. For me, giving up is not an option.”
What you wanted to be when you grew up: Self-employed
Bobbi Hoff
38, President and CEO, CPA, Realtor, G Text, Pisenti & Brinker, Coldwell Banker, Santa Rosa
Wearing three hats is the norm for Bobbi Hoff. She is president and CEO of G Text Inc., a startup creating games on cell phones; a CPA with Pisenti & Brinker LLP; and a Realtor with Coldwell Banker, where she assists clients with locating and evaluating home and commercial purchase options in Sonoma, Lake and Mendocino counties.
“When with Deloitte & Touche LLP, I was selected to manage tabulations for the Grammy and Day Time Emmy Awards. My second accomplishment was in serving as director of investor relations for OnHealth Network Co., where I completed two private security offerings, a public offering, acquired two companies and eventually sold the business to WebMD.”
She is currently a candidate for Santa Rosa City Council.
Best advice received: “Work hard and follow your passion.”
Stephanie Huang, M.D.
38, Medical director, Chernoff & Associates Cosmetic Surgeons, Santa Rosa
Dr. Stephanie Huang directs both surgical and non-surgical patient care while also managing daily operations of Chernoff & Associates Cosmetic Surgeons, a practice with 25 employees and offices in Santa Rosa, Healdsburg and Newport Beach.
Her goal is to balance a full-time career that includes expanding the practice into other Sonoma County cities while also raising 5-year-old identical twin boys. The best advice she ever received was “always treat your patients like members of your family.”
Greatest professional accomplishment: Completing her head and neck surgical residency at the University of Chicago Hospitals where she worked an average of 125 hours per week for six years.
Favorite movie: “A Beautiful Mind”
Josh Johnsen
38, Corporate vice president and partner, George Petersen Insurance Agency, Santa Rosa
Deciding to stay in business or to sell out was the biggest challenge Josh Johnsen had to face at age 24, following the sudden death of his father who had founded a local insurance company.
“I decided to carry on, as he would have wanted me to do, and did so in the face of considerable pressure from some in the industry. One person advised me to stick with it, and I am very happy that I took that advice.”
Mr. Johnsen merged his business with the George Petersen Insurance Agency in 2005 and now manages, cultivates and mentors sales and production groups while helping his partners execute a vision of profitable growth.
Mentor/most admired businessperson: My father
Kate Kelly
37, Assistant vice president of marketing and public relations, Redwood Credit Union, Santa Rosa
Juggling three vital functions keeps Kate Kelly focused as she oversees marketing, public relations and market research for Redwood Credit Union.
“It’s been exciting to see how we have grown and expanded our reach during my 15 years with the company. Today we are serving more and more North Bay residents and small business owners as we assist them with achieving a better financial life.”
Her goal is to become a more inspirational and motivational leader. “I work with an amazing team, and I strive to serve them well. But there is always room for improvement.”
Favorite movie: “My favorite comedy would have to be ‘Defending Your Life.’”
Greatest professional challenge: Work and being a mother of two children, 4 and 9
Best advice received: “Trust your gut.”
Saunda and Paul Kitchen
34 & 36, Co-owners, Mr. Rooter of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa
This husband-and-wife team started from nothing and built a thriving business now in its tenth year that employs 32 members of the local community.
As co-owners of Mr. Rooter, Saunda and Paul Kitchen delegate a lot of authority to their “amazing leadership team” while still assuming all of the responsibility. Their greatest challenge is “learning how to say no.”
Best advice received: “If you want to be great parents and great business partners, you must be a great husband and a great wife.”
Jordan Lavinsky
36, Senior counsel, Hanson Bridgett LLP, Larkspur
With primary responsibility for real estate litigation at Hanson Bridgett LLP, Jordan Lavinsky enjoys what he does.
“I wanted to find a firm where, even after five years on the job, I would still look forward to coming to work every day while also being able to balance career and family.”
As a child he wanted to become a lawyer. He achieved this goal after receiving a J.D. degree from the University of San Francisco. Mr. Lavinsky is active in the community with Legal Aid of Marin, is a member of the board of directors of the Marin County Bar Association and also a lecturer at USF.
Hobbies: “Traveling, music, sports and particularly golf – although I’m not very good – and mountain biking.”
Best advice received: “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”
Teejay Lowe
32, Director of community relations, G&G Supermarkets, Santa Rosa
His first job was as a bagger at G&G. Today Teejay Lowe has expanded his role in the family business to encompass managing all media and government affairs as well as marketing and advertising. He is also responsible for financial-asset management and development.
“One of the best things that ever happened to me was meeting the governor and making such an impression that he appointed me to the Regional Water Quality Control Board,” Mr. Lowe said.
Greatest professional challenge: “To have the self restraint to not act on every business opportunity that comes to mind.”
Best advice received: “Be in the moment.”
Chris Schumacher
38, President and CEO, executive vice president and COO, Optio Solutions LLC and CrossCheck Inc., Rohnert Park
With a dual leadership role as head of Optio Solutions, an accounts receivables management company, and as the chief operating officer of CrossCheck, the third-largest check approval and guarantee company in the nation, Chris Schumacher has his hands full.
“I am charged with operational management, strategic planning and technology utilization to help these companies grow and thrive. My objective is to increase revenues and market share by delivering innovative products and services that bring value to our customers.”
Mentor/most admired busi-nessperson: “My dad, who started a small insurance company and was able to support a family with eight children while still finding time to attend sporting events for all of us.”
Scott Shapiro
28, Senior vice president, Warren Capital Corp., Novato
A future career in finance could have been predicted for Scott Shapiro when he took his first job at Bohemian Grove and as he grew up close to the Shapiro Family Foundation.
Today he manages day-to-day operations and transaction flow at Warren Capital Corp. while also underwriting transactions and working closely with funding partners. His duties also include sales and marketing in addition to serving as the IT and Web site manager – in his spare time.
“I am especially proud of helping to build our health care business up to $25 million over several years and for the opportunity to create long-term relationships with many of our financial partners.”
Favorite book: “Moneyball,” by Michael Lewis
Rex Stults
39, Industry relations director, Napa Valley Vintners, St. Helena
Protecting Napa’s good name and handling tough wine industry issues are just part of his job description. Rex Stults is also fighting for wine consumers’ truth-in-labeling rights by appealing to the U.S. Alcohol, Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.
“Wine consumers should be able to expect consistent and truthful wine labels,” he said. Previously he was CEO of the St. Helena Chamber of Commerce for eight years. “I take pride in transforming the chamber into a dynamic, pro-active organization with the largest membership of any chamber for a town of its size in the U.S.”
Best advice received: “When you are on your deathbed, you most certainly won’t look back and think to yourself – I wish I had attended more meetings.”
Scott Sullivan
39, President, Soundvision, Novato
Creating and growing Soundvision into a nationally recognized, award-winning company is Scott Sullivan’s greatest accomplishment. His company specializes in the design and installation of whole house audio/visual entertainment systems, custom home theaters and automation and control devices.
“My personal goal is to learn to lead and mentor instead of pointing out the answers.”
Best advice received: “Always be profitable. Get credit from the bank when you don’t need it, and never take a partner.”
Geof Syphers
37, Chief sustainability officer, Codding Enterprises, Rohnert Park
Aligning his company’s business goals with social and environmental objectives is the primary responsibility of Geof Syphers.
“I find partners to help create real solutions to big problems like climate change and social inequity while generating jobs and profit. The challenge is to find ways to bring together the knowledge and concerns of the environmental community with the management capability and capital of the business community.”
Securing the One Planet Communities endorsement for Sonoma Mountain Village was his greatest accomplishment. “I want to build a prototype zero-carbon/zero-waste home at Sonoma Mountain Village and prove to the world that this is possible, profitable, beautiful and fun.”
First job: Building robotic food-packing machinery
Jay Takacs
36, Principal and CFO, 15000 Inc., Santa Rosa
As a co-founder of this consulting mechanical engineering firm in downtown Santa Rosa, Jay Takacs finds himself having to grow the firm despite the housing and construction downturn while continuing to lead the design community towards green and responsible construction.
“Adapting to a changing economy and responding quickly to market conditions has allowed us to grow even in slow times.”
Mr. Takacs has been a member of the Santa Rosa Board of Regulatory Appeals for two years and also a board member for R House charities, an organization that houses, trains and educates teenage boys and girls with violent track records.
Favorite movie: “The Good, Bad and the Ugly”
Mentor/most admired businessperson: Warren Buffet
Marc Van Riper
37, Director of administrative services, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Rosa
Starting as an entry-level phlebotomist, Marc Van Riper soon became a senior lab assistant and later a supervisor in Kaiser’s Santa Rosa laboratory.
He later became an administrative services supervisor, a unit manager for cardiac lab services and the acting medical records director for health information management transcription coding. Today he is responsible for the oversight of multiple departments within the Santa Rosa Medical Center.
“I’m very happy doing what I am doing, but becoming a manager of different disciplines has been a challenge.”
Favorite book: “Now Discover Your Strengths,” by Marcus Buckingham
Best advice received: “I may not be the smartest ... but I will work hard, use my resources and give people basic respect.”
Alena Wall
31, Executive director, Northern California Center for Well-Being, Santa Rosa
Alena Wall implements healthy business policies and worksite wellness programs. She also manages operations and supervises employees at two locations addressing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, weight management, basic nutrition and overall wellness.
“I want to strengthen our capacity to reach more people who need health education,” she said. She is chair of the Community Activity Nutrition Coalition Steering Committee and the Wellness Forum for the Sonoma County Coalition on Health and Wellness. She received the State Achievement Award for injury prevention for a Peer Education Program she developed and also developed the first diabetes program in Marin County to be accredited by the American Diabetes Association.
Best advice received: “Work only for the best, and be just as enthusiastic for the successes of others as you are for your own.”
Cami Weaver
39, CEO, Becoming Independent, Santa Rosa
Managing a nonprofit organization with a $13 million budget and a staff of 337 at seven sites in three counties that serves more than 1,100 individuals with disabilities requires many talents. Cami Weaver became CEO of Becoming Independent in October 2007 after 17 years of pursuing every professional development opportunity available.
“I am deeply committed to BI’s mission of promoting community inclusion and participation for people with disabilities. Connecting with all of the workers and creating meaningful time with the direct-care staff is vital. I also want to establish a major-donor and a planned-giving program to increase revenue and create future sustainability for the staff and the people we serve.”
Last vacation: “Disneyland with my sons. It was the first time for all of us.”
Kevin Zucco
38, Principal, ZFA Structural Engineers, Santa Rosa
Kevin Zucco heads a company that develops safe and code-compliant structural designs for new buildings and for retrofitting old ones.
He keeps up to date on green-building concepts and designs as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design accredited professional.
“I am also focused on business development and growing ZFA throughout Sonoma, Marin and Napa Counties, in the Bay Area and Sacramento. My greatest accomplishment was passing the California Structural Engineering exam, the most difficult license test in the U.S. with a failure rate of 80 percent.”
Hobbies: “Supporting my beautiful wife Kimberly, sporty son Grady – 5, spunky daughter Gigi – 3, and new smiley son Griffen – 10 months.”
Favorite book: “Into Thin Air”
Source:
http://www1.pressdemocrat.com/article/20080414/BUSINESSJOURNAL/368960317
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2006 Fourt
40 UNDER 40: 40 under 40
BY STAFF REPORTERS WILLIAM JASON, DORSEY KINDLER, Jeff Quackenbush AND Loralee Stevens
Marcus Benedetti, 32, President, Clover Stornetta Farms, Petaluma
Marcus Benedetti is the second-generation president of Clover Stornetta Farms. He was raised in Petaluma, and, among other chores, was delivering Clover milk to schools soon after he graduated from the University of Alaska. Mr. Benedetti knows the family business well. As a sales rep, he was active in getting Clover established in Sacramento and the Los Angeles basin.
Hobbies: Loves to ski and looks forward to introducing sons Jack and Henry to the sport.
Melissa Bradley, 35, CEO, Bradley Real Estate, San Anselmo
At 25, Melissa Bradley decided she was ready to become her own boss. Then an agent at a large residential brokerage, she left to start an office of her own, setting up shop in her San Anselmo garage. Ten years later, Ms. Bradley and her husband, Robert, oversee 150 agents at five Marin County offices. A sixth is planned for this summer. The company had $361 million in sales last year, up about 14 percent from 2005 sales.
First job: Delivering newspapers and selling news subscriptions at age 9.
Naomi Brilliant, 34, Owner and president, Roshambo Winery, Healdsburg
Since starting the winery in 1999, Naomi Brilliant has been fueled by the desire to "make wine culture fun and bring it to every lifestyle." Every element of the winery is infused with Ms. Brilliant's personality and the irreverent attitude that has become the brand's trademark. But the winery isn't all image, garnering awards and distribution in more than 25 states.
As president, creative and marketing director, Ms. Brilliant said she has a hard time describing what she does at Roshambo "because it covers pretty much everything including taking out the garbage."
Most-admired businesspeople: "Ruth Reichl, editor in chief of Gourmet magazine and author, because she makes it all personal and fun. Robert Mondavi, when I'm told I can't do it, I think of him and how he did it."
Efren Carrillo, 26, Community education manager, Redwood Credit Union, Santa Rosa
Efren Carrillo is responsible for developing education initiatives and seminars for Redwood Credit Union members and the greater community, with a focus on Latino and youth programs. The credit union created the position specifically for Mr. Carrillo when he was hired.
Greatest professional accomplishment: Redwood Credit Union's receipt of first place in the statewide Desjardins Youth Financial Education Awards.
Lisa Codding, 29, Chief operating officer and vice president, Codding Enterprises, Rohnert Park
After earning an undergraduate industrial engineering degree from California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, Lisa Codding joined the company her grandfather Hugh Codding started 70 years ago so she could help guide the company's return to real estate development.
In addition to planned redevelopment of the Coddingtown regional mall in Santa Rosa with joint partner Simon Property Group, Codding's major endeavor now is a mixed-use village at the former Agilent Technologies campus in Rohnert Park, a development now called Sonoma Mountain Village.
Hobbies: Snowboarding, electronics, information technology, photography and raising goats.
Walter Collins, 35, President and CEO, United Way of Sonoma-Mendocino-Lake, Santa Rosa
It's been just about a year since Walter Collins threw himself into running the 12-employee branch of United Way. His professional goal is to endow the regional United Way in perpetuity, a challenge that will take all his resources, which include a degree in political science from UC Berkeley, a fondness for writing, art and music of all kinds and the belief that "If you truly listen, and stay humble, you will succeed."
Most-admired businessperson: Walt Disney
Rhonda Deringer, 37, President, Odyssey Development, Sonoma; Commercial real estate agent, Keegan & Coppin, Santa Rosa
Rhonda Deringer has been involved with 16 significant North Bay multifamily, mixed-use, live-work and commercial projects since starting Odyssey Development in 1997. That includes Carneros Village Lofts completed in Sonoma last year, the proposed DeTurk Village redevelopment in Santa Rosa set to start construction this year and the two-phase proposed Sonoma Valley Business Park near Sonoma.
Her "day job" is brokering commercial real estate investment, development and lease deals with Keegan & Coppin.
Hobbies: Mountain biking and rollerblading
Dan Drohan, 34, President and CEO, Sunset Aviation, Novato
In 15 years with Sunset Aviation, Dan Drohan considers his greatest professional challenge to be to grow a company in a competitive environment with slim margins. As president and CEO, he is responsible for operations, growth, finances, relationships, strategy and direction.
First job: Working at an airport washing airplanes.
Jeremy Epperson, 32, General manager, Apex Aviation Corporation, Santa Rosa
Since joining Apex Aviation about two years ago, Jeremy Epperson has turned on the afterburners at the aircraft sales and services company. He has added new business lines such as aircraft detailing and has expanded existing lines, including adding a mobile maintenance team to service planes at other locations. Mr. Epperson has led several key negotiations, most notably winning a $500,000 contract with Horizon Air to provide ticket agents, counter personnel, baggage handlers and fuelers for the airline's new commercial flights out of Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport.
First job: U.S. Marine Corps
Holly Finkelstein, 33, Owner, CEO and general manager, Judd's Hill Winery, St. Helena
Though Judd's Hill Winery has been around since 1989, Holly Finkelstein has helped transform the company since joining it three years ago. She spearheaded a custom crush operation to complement the boutique winery's 3,000-case annual production.
Hobbies: Hula-hooping
Barry Friedman, 28, Sales Manager, Friedman's Home Improvement, Santa Rosa
Poised to become the fourth generation of Friedman to lead the long-time North Bay hardware chain, Barry Friedman officially joined the company four years ago. But at age 8, he was already acting as courtesy clerk in the family enterprise. Now he oversees daily operations which include hiring and scheduling employees, mentoring and coaching them, warehousing, stocking and placing products, and above all, ensuring quality customer service and community involvement. The latter two activities are crucial to Friedman's survival in the age of big-box realtors, he said.
Hobbies: Pit crewmember for Biagi Bros. Racing, which finished fourth in the 2003 Daytona Busch Series race with his assistance; whitewater rafting; and spending quality time with his wife, Heidi Hansel Friedman.
Erik Fowler, 36, Vice president and owner, V. Dolan Trucking, Penngrove
Erik Fowler has been a driving force in the conversion of the company's 42-truck fleet to using biodiesel as of this year. The company has grown to become one of the largest sand, aggregate and asphalt haulers in the North Bay with 48 employees. Mr. Fowler joined the company 14 years ago and manages it with co-owner and father-in-law Tom Brandal.
Best advice received: "Whether you are flipping burgers or are the CEO of a large corporation, always do the best job you can."
Angie Grainger, 39, CPA and tax manager, Moss Adams, LLP, Santa Rosa
As a certified personal financial specialist, Angie Grainger assists individuals and companies in the construction and real estate industries. She is known for her "uncanny ability to bring people together," according to a colleague. Outside of her job, Ms. Grainger provides financial literacy education, and helps to organize the annual Youth Business Week. She has served on several boards, including a term as chairwoman of the CalCPA Committee for Financial Literacy.
Childhood career ambition: Truck driver, until seventh grade when she was told, "'since you're good at math you should be a CPA."
Ryan Gregory, 32, Principal, Riechers Spence & Associates, Napa
Since joining the engineering firm in 1998, Ryan Gregory worked on the site designs for many different types of projects, including commercial developments, wineries, bridges and more than 40 residential developments. Mr. Gregory was named a principal in 2005 and now oversees a team of nine employees.
First job: Go-fer for RSA, his current employer, in high school
Tallia Hart, 33, President and CEO, San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, San Rafael
As leader of the eighth-largest chamber of commerce in the Bay Area, Tallia Hart keeps busy with political advocacy for her 900 members as well as staff and volunteer management.
This year, she was awarded the Western Association Chamber Executives Hammond Award.
Childhood career ambition: A professional gymnast, going so far as to train with Bela Karolyi for the U.S. Olympic Gymnastic Team.
Mark Inman, 38, President, Taylor Maid Farms, Sebastopol
As president of 14-employee specialty tea and coffee seller Taylor Maid Farms, Mark Inman purchases all the raw coffee beans, maintaining relationships with coffee growers in 10 countries. But he does a lot more. The Specialty Coffee Association of America, on which thousands of small coffee growers in developing countries rely for subsistence, was in receivership due to embezzlement. Elected president, Mr. Inman helped turn the association around and resume operating in the black, an accomplishment he counts among his best.
Most-admired businessperson: Paul Katzeff, CEO of Thanksgiving Coffee Co.
Dane Jasper, 34, President and CEO, Sonic.net, Santa Rosa
Dane Jasper founded the ISP Sonic.net in his mother's back room. The company, one of the largest independent providers of dialup and DSL access in California, now occupies 36,000 square feet on Corporate Center Parkway.
Mr. Jasper is owner, founder and CEO of Sonic.net. He served as president of the California ISP Association in 2006, and is an outspoken activist serving the ISP industry.
John Jordan, 34, CEO, Jordan Vineyard and Winery, Healdsburg
John Jordan oversees all aspects of Jordan Vineyard and Winery, which had $26 million in sales last year.
"Building a team that took Jordan from the No. 5 position in the Wine & Spirits most-requested brands poll to No. 1 in one year" has been his biggest accomplishment, he said, noting that staying competitive with the resources of larger conglomerates is a continuing challenge for the small, family-owned winery.
Most-admired businessperson: "My dad, and not just for his accomplishments in business but for who he is as a man."
Chris Krankemann, 32, Partner, Lanahan & Reilley, Santa Rosa
Chris Krankemann's responsibilities at the law firm of Lanahan & Reilly include managing budget and human resources planning as well as marketing. He also manages his litigation and consulting practice.
First job: Cook at McDonald's
Vikram Lal, 27, President and chief executive officer, Metropolis Label, Napa
Vikram Lal comes from an ambitious family that built a commercial printing powerhouse in Canada with hard work and wise deals. Mr. Lal continued that tradition when he came to the company's new Napa-based Metropolis Label venture and last year pulled together a deal with one of the great names in wine-label printing Gordon Graphics in Novato.
Childhood career ambition: Entrepreneurship
Michael Matsumoto, 39, Technology chief and assistant chief of pediatrics, Kaiser Permanente North Bay, Novato
Michael Matsumoto is responsible for evaluating, developing and implementing new technology for Kaiser Permanente in the North Bay. He also handles new physician training and medical information science for the organization.
He implemented an electronic medical record system for nearly 1,000 users, including 240 physicians. Balancing the demands of health care administration with the responsibilities of caring for patients, he said, is the greatest challenge of his position.
Childhood career ambition: A children's summer camp director
Kimberly Meredith, 37, Regional director of patient financial services and health financial management, Adventist Health System, St. Helena
Kimberly Meredith is responsible for orchestrating the billing of 20,000 patients each month for St. Helena Hospital, Redbud Community Hospital, and the St. Helena Hospital Center for Behavioral Health. She oversees a staff of 80, and is heading the conversion of all patients' medical and financial records from paper to a digital system.
A five-time Ironman triathlete, Ms. Meredith also teaches spin and "boot camp" classes for hospital employees.
First job: Funeral home worker: "Picking up dead bodies at age 16. Awesome wages for a teenager and great stories to be told at school on Monday."
Jeff Mezzetta, 38, President, GL Mezzetta, American Canyon
Fourth-generation GL Mezzetta leader Jeff Mezzetta oversees 200 employees and more than 70 years of Mezzetta history. His great-grandfather started the specialty food store in North Beach in the 1930s.
The line has grown from pickled peppers to a wide range of bottled condiments and sauces. Mr. Mezzetta is particularly proud that a line of Napa Valley Bistro pasta sauces, launched on his own watch, is the fastest-growing specialty pasta sauce in the country.
Hobbies: Crewing on bay race boats and sailing his Sausalito-docked sloop Eye Level, named for the most sought-after slot on retail shelves.
Steven Morales, 38, Human resources director, Sutter Medical Center Santa Rosa, Santa Rosa
When Steven Morales began working for Sutter Health as a respiratory therapist 14 years ago, he expressed a desire to work in human resources. He took an assistant HR role at Sutter Lakeside where he quickly became HR director. Steve "excelled in the position," according to Sutter Medical Center Santa Rosa CEO Mike Cohill, which led to the HR director spot in Santa Rosa and eventually the entire Sutter North Coast Region, where he oversees 1,500 employees.
He is also in charge of labor relations for Sutter Lakeside, Sutter Medical Center Santa Rosa and Sutter Medical Foundation North Bay.
Greatest professional accomplishment: Settling three labor contracts within six weeks, avoiding strikes from two major unions.
Ron Moresco, 39, CEO, Moresco Distributing Co., Petaluma
Ron Moresco started 29-employee Moresco Distributing in July 1994, which has become one of the largest independent foodservice packaging and paper goods distributors in the Bay Area. Mr. Moresco has been working with packaging manufacturers overseas to create environmentally-friendly packaging such as the Baggasse made from sugarcane and SpudWare plastic utensils created from potato or cornstarch and vegetable.
Next professional goal: Merge with or acquire a business.
Craig Nordby, 36, President of Nordby Wine Caves and Nordby Signature Homes; vice president of Nordby Construction, Santa Rosa
Craig Nordby is in charge of bringing in new business, maintaining client relationships and managing sales, marketing and public relations. The company is the third-largest commercial general contractor in the North Bay, with more than $50 million in annual revenue and 80 employees.
Craig Nordby rose through the company starting with his first job as a general laborer and ditch digger for Nordby Construction during summer vacation.
Greatest professional challenge: Managing three businesses simultaneously.
Christopher Paris, 30, Partner, Andersen & Company, Santa Rosa
As co-head of the tax department, Christopher Paris provides and supervises tax, accounting and consulting services for mid sized business and high-net-worth individuals. He also heads the company's in-house recruiting and training programs.
Most-admired businessperson: Jim Andersen
Christina Pratt, 37, President, Trope Group, Santa Rosa
One of the highlights in Christina Pratt's career was being part of the team that rebuilt top North Bay office furniture dealership BB&T as Trope Group in October 2002. She had been putting her interior design training and childhood love of architecture to work at BB&T for six years when the parent company abruptly shuttered the Santa Rosa location. BB&T founder Betty Trope, who came back to help restart the business, retired last October, leaving the company to Ms. Pratt, Candace Patocka and Charlie Nicholls.
Favorite after-work drink: Brandy Separator
Vanessa Robledo, 29, President, Robledo Family Winery, Sonoma
Vanessa Robledo has worked with her family over the last 10 years to expand Robledo Family Winery from its modest start at 100 cases to the 20,000-case winery it is today. Before her father started the winery, Ms. Robledo was working to help build the family vineyard management businesses.
"Because of my parents' limited English I became the spokesperson for the family at an early age," she said. "Along with my sibling, I began working in the fields completing general labor in the vineyards at age 8."
After seven years working in the family business, Ms. Robledo became president of the winery in 2002. Along the way, Ms. Robledo took wine marketing and business courses at night to augment her hands-on experience.
"My family trusted me with the business," she said. "And I did not want to fail them in any way."
Next professional goal: "To begin my own business."
Lisa Wittke Schaffner, 37, Executive director, Sonoma County Alliance, Healdsburg
A career civic leader, Lisa Wittke Schaffner was elected to the Healdsburg City Council in 1999, and has since served terms as vice-mayor and mayor. She reassumes the position as mayor in December.
Ms. Schaffner heads the Sonoma County Alliance, a 300-plus member business organization that provides education and advocacy to a wide range of industries.
Favorite after-work drink: "With kids: Frappuccino; without kids: lemon drop."
August Sebastiani, 26, Managing director, The Other Guys division of Don Sebastiani & Sons, Sonoma
August Sebastiani runs Don & Sons' new California wholesale division, The Other Guys, which is targeting sales of 10,000 cases this year of five labels such as Plungerhead Zinfandel. Putting his undergraduate political science degree from Santa Clara University into action, he won a seat on the Sonoma City Council in November.
Most-admired businessperson: Media mogul Shawn Carter aka Jay-Z
Don Sebastiani Jr., 29, Director of marketing, Don Sebastiani & Sons, Sonoma
Just a couple of years after Donny Sebastiani earned his degree in business economics from Santa Clara University's Leavey School of Business, his father, Don Sr., transformed Cecchetti-Sebastiani Cellar into a nimble, hip wine-branding juggernaut with upscale yet premium-priced selections, such as Smoking Loon and Used Automobile Parts. In the past couple of years, the 100-employee company has garnered accolades such as Winery of the Year from Gomberg Fredrikson & Associates under Donny Sebastiani's marketing leadership.
First job: Mailroom at Sebastiani Vineyards, a rite of passage for Sebastiani kids.
J. David Siembieda, 35, President and CEO, CrossCheck, Inc., Rohnert Park
Since David Siembieda took over as head of CrossCheck at age 29, the company has grown to become the third-largest check provider in the United States and a major Sonoma County employer. Today, Mr. Siembieda's duties include managing more than 1,400 independent sales offices and 128 partners.
Best advice received: Lead and they will follow
Suzanne Smith, 37, Executive Director, Sonoma County Transportation Authority, Santa Rosa
While the Sonoma County Transportation Authority has an operating budget of just $1 million, it oversees $100 million a year in transportation funds. It's Suzanne Smith's job to direct funds to specific projects and monitor the delivery of those projects. Ms. Smith helped secure $156 million in Proposition 1B funds for Sonoma County.
Childhood career ambition: "A lawyer ... until I actually worked for a law firm. "
Jon Stout, 39, Airport manager, Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport, Santa Rosa
While he helped to extend the main commercial runway to 6,000 feet, Jon Stout considers bringing commercial air service back to Santa Rosa to be his greatest professional achievement.
Now, his goal is extend that runway even farther and achieve the status of accredited airport executive.
Favorite book: "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams
Scott Stranzl, 39, Vice president, Basin Street Properties, Petaluma
Scott Stranzl directs the leasing and marketing activities of Basin Street Properties. President Matt White repositioned the company from office and industrial leasing to mixed-use and retail redevelopment in downtown Petaluma. Instead of courting corporations and telecom startups, Mr. Stranzl was looking to bring in key upscale retail tenants.
Basin Street has been acquiring major office and mixed-use properties in downtown Reno, where the company sees its future, and Mr. Stranzl is now managing leasing in two states. Mr. White has already relocated to Reno.
Sam Tamayo, 31, Plant Manager, La Tortilla Factory, Santa Rosa
Sam Tamayo is in the third generation of a company that's evolved from a three-employee delicatessen to a 175-employee maker of healthy tortillas with more than $20 million in revenues. Mr. Tamayo has worked at La Tortilla since he was 15, learning all aspects of the business while preparing himself for an executive position.
Most-admired businesspeople: His father Carlos Tamayo, who with his two brothers built upon their parents' original enterprise.
Kevin Teague, 37, Partner, management committee member and hospitality industry group leader, Dickenson, Peatman & Fogarty, Napa
Kevin Teague represents clients on land use issues and has successfully pushed through high profile developments such as the Westin Verasa hotel, the Sheveland Ranch housing community and the reconstruction of Silver Oak Cellars. Mr. Teague also played an integral role in his firm's recent merger with the firm Rybicki & Blevans of Santa Rosa, which greatly expanded its footprint in the North Bay.
Che Voigt, 36, President, L3 Communications Sonoma EO, Santa Rosa
Che Voigt heads up a division of government contractor L3 Communications, with 225 employees reporting to him. He co-founded aerospace engineering firm Sonoma Design with his parents and another partner, and following its acquisition moved up to lead a group that also includes the former Wescam of Healdsburg.
Mr. Voigt's division makes long-range, stabilized electro-optical systems and sensors for use on surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft and in atmospheric research.
Childhood career ambition: A robotics engineer or a Jedi knight
Ronald Wargo, 34, Partner, Friedemann Goldberg LLP, Santa Rosa
For Ronald Wargo, making partner at his 20-employee law firm crowned the early part of his career. He has already earned a reputation for his work in estate planning and intellectual property law. He plans to become a certified specialist in those fields and trust and probate law.
Most-admired businesspeople: Telecommunications veterans Don Green and John Webley are admired businesspeople.
Source:
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