What is your biggest current challenge at work?
As a supplier, I have noticed the way our industry does purchasing is shifting in multiple ways. Items are becoming more commoditized and more suppliers are entering the space both from the ground up as well as existing suppliers selling new products. The construction industry has seen strong growth and there is a lot of opportunity, but it's more important than ever to be the best that we can.
What keeps you up at night?
Our business is a family-owned company. I have grown up around the business and have seen the great business my dad has built. The short answer is that we need to take some risks to continue best serving our customers, but the pressure of making sure I don't screw it up always weighs on me. Making sure that we continue to focus on what we do best, while implementing new products, procedures, and policies is the biggest challenge for us.
How does your ABC membership help your company?
Despite being in business for years, we only recently joined ABC. As a materials supplier, it has undoubtedly become one of the best resources for us. From meeting the folks that make the purchasing decisions to talking to fellow business owners, I have been thoroughly impressed by the caliber of individuals that are active members of ABC. Additionally, most members are very open to meeting each other and helping each other out.
What do you look forward to each day?
I look forward to the unique challenges of each day, some of which I'd rather not have to deal with but come with the territory. I'm proud to know that I have been able to ease my dad's workload and look forward to knowing that he can take it a little easier. As someone that has worked harder and put more on the line than anyone I know, my dad deserves to enjoy life.
What are you like to work for?
I would hope that people like working for me. I like to take a very approachable and solutions-focused attitude. I'm all about having a great time and making people laugh, but always keeping in mind when it's time to get serious. I always tell our employees that with any job, you should be happy or learning or both, so that you're always progressing personally and/or professionally.
What is your favorite movie or tv show?
I probably will get judged for this, but it's probably Bad Boys or True Lies. Of course, there are movies that are better, but both of these were a great mix of Comedy and Action that doesn't exist as much today.
What do you do for fun?
My wife and I love to check out new restaurants, but mostly we're into just great tasting food, not some crazy new preparation of an old classic that looks better than it tastes.
What business/career advice do you wish you had when you began?
Don't be afraid to fail and don't try to please everyone on the job. I've realized that progress is hindered by both factors. It's TOTALLY OKAY to fail, as long as you learn from it (and hopefully it doesn't cost too much). Trying to please everyone as a manager/owner won't always lead to the best decision making needed for a business.
What book are you currently reading?
With a toddler and a newborn at home, unfortunately I don't get to read as much as I'd like. Instead I've gotten onto audiobooks and podcasts, especially while in the car. Most recently I listened to The Virgin Way by Richard Branson.
