1) What are the best skills you bring to your job?
I think it's a combination of my finance experience and comfort in speaking with people. Ironically, my father is an introvert, but when I was in high school, he invited me to attend the local chamber of commerce meetings at which I had to fend for myself talking with various businesspeople. That experience, along with showing up at the golf course as a single when I was first learning and getting paired with random people, made me comfortable listening and holding a conversation.
2) What's your definition of success?
Success for me both personally and professionally is helping others achieve their goals. At work, I've been successful if my colleagues are given the opportunity to learn and advance. Personally, it's the same with my family. I am a proud member of the humble-brag club, and I am extremely proud of my children, whether it was something I did in helping to raise them along with my wife Alaina, or more likely something I didn't do.
3) Do you have skills or talents that most people don't know about?
Traditional talents like mastering a musical instrument or speaking a foreign language have eluded me. However, I was able to bring two fantastically talented and motivated children into the world, and I live vicariously through them. I'm a huge music fan, yet can't read music or play an instrument. My son plays guitar, drums, keyboard, etc. and even put out an album on Spotify in 2020. I'm also a big believer in science, but I pursued finance as a career. However, my daughter is completing her Master's degree in Public Health and has had a front-row seat to the efforts to fight COVID-19.
4) What are some causes you care about?
Education, housing affordability, and food insecurity.
5) Who do you admire and why?
I'm lucky that both my parents are still thriving. While I admire them both equally, since I already mentioned my father, I'll share that I admire him because of how hard he works and how much he cares for other people. As long as I can remember, he has always helped the less fortunate, not necessarily with a donation, but with meaningful work, opportunity, and companionship.
- Sociable
- Facilitator
- Proud father and husband
- Philanthropic minded