AGE: 35
TITLE: CEO and Founder
COMPANY NAME: iDevices, LLC
COMPANY’S LOCATION: Avon
RESIDENCE: West Hartford
What do you do? In many respects, I consider myself a renaissance man, mainly because of the number of businesses and occupations I have worked in or owned. Currently, as CEO of iDevices, this is the second most rewarding position I have ever held in my life; topped only by my position of dad to two wonderful kids, Marisa and Christopher Jr. I am responsible for the company’s vision, the inventions the company has brought to market to date and heading up the consulting division. Of course, I am also part-time trash man, box and office furniture mover and whatever else needs to be done to make sure things are running smoothly.
What do you want to be doing in 10 years? My current position is extremely rewarding, especially when building a team from 2 people in January 2011, to 16 people today and 25 by the end of 2012. It has been an amazing experience to be part of this growth. Ten years from now is a long way off, but I like to think I will have earned some down time allowing me to travel less on business and more for pleasure. That being said, if the enjoyment I am getting out of work today is the same, I would see no reason I wouldn’t be right where I am now doing something I truly love.
What is your biggest strength? In my opinion, my vision is my biggest strength. I have the ability to envision a product, an idea, or a business and make that a reality. This vision is an added asset with clients we consult with, as I can help them imagine what the next version of their product could be based on our technology and services.
Where do you go for new ideas? When it comes to inventions, I have been lucky enough to have them in my own head that I haven’t had to go outside for new ideas. However, when it comes to business, the main reason for building a world-class team at iDevices is that in your team, you should have great people that are always innovating and looking to invent products that will further iDevice’s lead in the marketplace.
What is the best advice you received? In business, the best advice I received was from the former CEO of Kmart, Joseph Antonini, who I met on a flight back from California in late 2010. I asked him very candidly what advice he would offer up to a young CEO in an up and coming business. His answer was immediate and to the point, “Surround yourself with a great core team and everything else will fall into place.” This advice has proven to be true beyond measure, but I take it one step further and apply the best advice from my personal life, “Treat others as you would want to be treated,” a piece of wisdom from my mother.
What service or charitable cause has your attention? One of the charities that I support is The Harry Gray Cancer Center. The staff was very comforting and compassionate as they helped my family through a very difficult time with the passing of my mom, Agnes, in late 2003. I’m also proud to support the ALS Association in memory of my father Raymond, who passed away from ALS in late 1983. I admire the ALS Association’s dedication to finding a cure for this debilitating disease and sincerely hope their efforts find a cure in the near future. On a corporate level, iDevices supports the St. Agnes Home, Inc. in West Hartford. The mission of this organization is to provide residential care and supportive services for pregnant and parenting adolescent mothers and their infants who would otherwise have no place to turn for room and board. They offer support services and healthcare for these women and their newborn children.
