I appreciate this opportunity to present myself to the United Way board of directors. I have been a Montana resident since the early 90’s when I brought my family here from California. I am a husband and father of five children. My wife and I have been married 44 years now. The kids were raised and are now with their own families in all parts of the western US. I have seven grandchildren. My perspective in all my personal and professional interactions relates back to them, and the core values of family. Nurturing, developing, and supporting has been key to my success in life and business.
My career is lengthy and a tad bit boring for lack of a better description. At the core is just doing what I can to support my family. I am currently the General Manager of Staples in Kalispell. This part of my career has been very satisfying, mostly because it allows me to provide and devote some of my time to helping the community at large. Everyday opportunities arise to help others, small business owners, individuals from all walks of life enter the store I manage. The culture we have here is to do everything in our power to make their day, find what they need and show them what we can do to help. It is a philosophy that has never failed us.
I started with Staples in 2006, in my mid forties as a sales associate. I worked through several roles to reach my present position. My past careers were not as rewarding, but helpful in providing the experience needed to succeed in my current position. I have been a warehouseman, a graphic artist, a press operator, an inside and outside salesman. I have worked in the printing, publishing, mobile phone, and internet service industries. Oh, and I once worked as a Radio Shack manager somewhere in there. So, I guess, “if you have questions, I must have answers”. And I will end my bio with this final thought. I would be honored to serve the local community in any capacity within the United Way. My interactions with your organization have always been positive and rewarding. I look forward to my retirement years in the not-too-distant future and would welcome even greater involvement as the years pass.