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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor many top-notch performers in the entertainment industry and beyond, acceptance and accolades come infrequently. They quietly go about their work, day after day, month after month, year after year, amassing an impressive body of work that may be appreciated and compensated, but perhaps merits more than a pat on the back. But it\u2019s never too late to celebrate the remarkable among us. As best actress Michelle Yeoh observed in her acceptance speech, \u201cDon\u2019t let anybody tell you you\u2019re past your prime.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which brings us to our annual Difference Makers issue. We\u2019re rolling out the red carpet on 60 A-list industry professionals, some of whom boast considerable star power and are renowned for their excellence among the dealer, manufacturer, distributor, trainer\/consultant and solution spaces along with numerous other facets of the office technology sphere. Other individuals may not boast a household name in your circle, but as you\u2019ll soon learn, their contributions, performances and dedication to uplifting the industry are undeniable and worthy of celebrating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s not just the CEOs who make this industry great; clearly, these visionaries play a large role in molding and shaping our industry. But there are numerous middle-management types in sales, marketing, operations, service, admin and just about any title that includes the word \u201cofficer\u201d who propel many of the industry\u2019s top organizations. They\u2019re the industry\u2019s writers, producers and directors\u2014indispensable elements who help raise the curtain on stellar performances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best of all, we didn\u2019t need the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to vote on our best and brightest\u2014it was you, the reader, who took the time to cast your vote for our Office Industry\u2019s Shining Stars. For this, we thank you, as the Difference Makers program wouldn\u2019t exist without your support. It\u2019s also important to note that comedian Chris Rock was not harmed in the production of this year\u2019s list.\\<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We offer our congratulations to the 2023 honorees. Read on\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Valerie Alberico is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This year\u2019s crop of Difference Makers features a healthy dose of current and former journalists, including Alberico, who holds a degree in corporate communications from Purdue University and a second B.A. in broadcast journalism from Columbia College in Chicago. These days, she guides the North American strategy for Clover Imaging Group, a manufacturer of consumable imaging supplies. Alberico also directs Clover\u2019s mid-market account management teams, sales operations and business analyst teams as well as the company\u2019s highly decorated customer and tech services. She\u2019s a pivotal cog in Clover\u2019s executive leadership team and has been vital in developing the organization\u2019s customer-centric go-to-market strategy. Alberico also authored multi-million dollar contract and program negotiations that netted multi-year agreements with Fortune 100 companies. A 20-year veteran of the office products industry, she previously held a senior marketing and merchandising director post with Royal Office Products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThose within the industry who\u2019ve had the pleasure to work with Valerie immediately sense her passion to provide the ultimate level of customer satisfaction to any task. Her positive energy is infectious and raises the bar for others to model themselves after. Valerie is an amazing leader who challenges her peers while always expressing compassion to team members and ensuring she offers her full support with their individual career development. Valerie\u2019s professional approach to business relationships and her amazing organizational skills make her one of the best. I have tremendous respect for what she\u2019s been able to accomplish so far in her highly successful career. I\u2019m extremely thankful for what she\u2019s taught me while working alongside her for over 15 amazing years.\u201d<\/p>\u2014George Milton, CEO, Clover Imaging Group<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Matt Baroletti is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Not long after completing his electrical and electronics engineering degree from Villanova University, Baroletti began a 34-year (and growing) odyssey with Canon U.S.A. Today, he serves as a senior director in the BICG Engineering Services and Solutions subgroup, guiding the engineering teams, the technical support center and the technology systems group, supporting all BICG solutions. Baroletti wears many hats; chief among his duties are product quality assurance, issue resolution, dealer and customer satisfaction, dealer service meetings and employee engagement. As the point person on the technology systems team, his group supports system infrastructure that drives Canon\u2019s service business, including the e-Support website, CRM system and service training learning management system. Under his guidance, Canon\u2019s customer solutions center has been recognized by Benchmark Portal as a Center of Excellence for the past decade. Baroletti is a valued mentor for young and developing team members within the organization, supporting various company initiatives including the Canon Spirit Award program. True to his roots, Baroletti is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cMatt\u2019s four decades of work at Canon has seen him provide invaluable contributions to Canon\u2019s service organization. He continues to work tirelessly to lead and support our engineering, technical support center and technology systems teams to ensure our dealers and customers receive award-winning customer experiences with all Canon solutions. He continues to lead, both as a senior director in the company and also as a mentor who is always willing to help and guide colleagues through any professional challenges.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Lee Farrell, Vice President and General Manager, Engineering Services and Solutions, Canon U.S.A<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Josh Braendle is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Braendle has been the ultimate road warrior, particularly the past two years. Whether he\u2019s visiting dealer customers to help them add margin to their bottom line or hopping on his motorcycle to join the Patriot Pack each summer in support of The Jillian Fund and the nation\u2019s military heroes, Braendle is always willing to log miles that back worthwhile causes. This is his second tour of duty with Static Control in a career that spans more than 20 years in the imaging world. His stops have included Nu-kote, Richmont Holdings, MSE and LaserCycle USA, where he served in various sales and business development capacities. Braendle played a huge role in launching Static Control\u2019s cartridge line as the company transitioned from only supplying the interior components used in remanufactured cartridges to a full line of cartridge solutions. He\u2019s heavily involved in buying groups such as IBPI and ISG in addition to multiple industry associations and peer groups throughout the imaging channel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cJosh is a natural leader in the Static Control organization. His experience and knowledge of the industry has made him one of the go-to guys to ask questions or seek advice from.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Shannon Parish, Marketing Manager, Static Control<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Charles Brewer is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to reporting on the world of inks, toners, cartridges and supplies, Brewer is without peer. His Actionable Intelligence website, launched in 2009, is a bottomless font of news and analysis for this industry niche. He\u2019s covered the imaging technology and consumables world for the better part of 30 years, providing breaking news coverage of consumables-related litigation and M&A activity. He also furnishes critical analysis of the business performance for key hardware and supplies manufacturers, backed by a research team to help provide perspective to industry executives. Brewer also provides clients with customized research and consulting. A popular speaker on the industry circuit, he\u2019s given presentations in events throughout North America, Europe and China. His work has also appeared in various industry publications, including ENX, providing deep dives into digital printers, MFP hardware, toner and supplies. Brewer previously served as an editor for Inc., ComputerWorld and The Hard Copy Supplies Journal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cCharlie Brewer is an avid researcher and writer with his finger on the pulse of the news when it comes to inks, toners, cartridges and supplies. He works tirelessly to deliver the latest timely research in this niche industry. Charlie is a well-respected source here in the United States and globally.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Jim Farrell, President, Farrell PR<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Greg Burrell is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Excellence in technical service has long been a prime differentiator for office technology dealers, and Burrell has helped elevate Doing Better Business\u2019 proficiency in the 10 years since he joined the firm as part of the 2013 acquisition of Van Dyk Business Systems. Recently promoted to vice president of service, Burrell has fashioned an impressive resum\u00e9 in his 30 years in the service segment. He became a Sharp Certified 3T Technical Trainer, which enables him to provide regular in-house training for his technical staff. As Doing Better Business continued to grow through acquisitions, Burrell was tasked with service management for operations in the Pennsylvania cities of Greensburg, Pittsburgh and Erie as well as Boardman, Ohio. Constantly on the lookout for ways to improve his craft, Burrell is a routine participant in technical service best practice meetings with the Select Dealer Group and Pros Elite 100. He\u2019s impressed Sharp as the driving force behind Doing Better Business attaining the OEM\u2019s AAA Platinum Service Award.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cGreg is always excited to learn and find ways to improve both the customer experience and our employees\u2019 experience. He actively participates in best practice groups and shares new ideas on our senior management team. He\u2019s truly someone we can count on to model our core values and commitment to customer service excellence.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Debra Dellaposta, President and CEO, Doing Better Business<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Thank You<\/strong> Why Erica Calise is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Virtually every successful business has a high performer who\u2019s known for getting stuff done, and for Sharp, that\u2019s Calise. A 30-plus-year veteran of the company, she\u2019s renowned for her drive and commitment to Sharp, its customers and business partners. As the point person for Sharp\u2019s government and commercial accounts, she manages nationally awarded pacts with luminaries such as Sourcewell and NASPO in addition to health care and commercial portfolios. During her career, Calise has handled bid strategy and development, business development, process enhancement, sales training and coaching, and building marketing strategy and marketing materials. Her signature high energy, enthusiasm and propensity for leading and motivating others has left an indelible impression throughout the organization. In 2019, she was named a Woman of Influence by The Cannata Report and recently received the Legendary Leadership award from Sourcewell. A graduate of Brown University, Calise spent the first three years of her professional career with Merrill Lynch in fixed income trading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cErica has been instrumental in helping government agencies get the quality products and services they need through our Sourcewell-awarded contract. Thousands of agencies across North America have saved millions of dollars by using the pricing Sharp offers under our contract. While Sourcewell, as a government agency, creates awareness for public sector entities to use our contracts, Erica has helped drive that message to partners and dealers as they work with our mutual clients to use public funds in the most efficient way possible.\u201d<\/p>\u2014David Duhn, Supplier Development Supervisor, Sourcewell<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Thomas Chacko is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Certain individuals are the foundation of the company in the sense that, without them, the business would crumble in a metaphorical sense. Chacko definitely fits that description. The company\u2019s vice president of operations\u2014a Long Island transplant\u2014touts the virtues of being hard-working, humble and driven, which has endeared him to GoodSuite team members since his 2017 arrival. Thus, it\u2019s not surprising that Chacko is loath to accept personal credit for organizational triumphs, preferring to cite the team. He possesses relentless organization and project management skills. As VP of operations, he plans, directs, coordinates and oversees operations activities, ensuring development and implementation of efficient operations and cost-effective systems to meet the current and future needs of the organization. The holder of an MBA in accounting from the University of Phoenix, Chacko previously spent 11 years with SoCal Office Technologies (Global Imaging Systems) in a number of director positions and is Lean Six Sigma certified by Villanova University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIf Thomas asks someone to do something, you know it will get done. He is a bulldog and will follow up until completion. Thomas volunteers to do everything from sales projects to marketing and all things service, finance and admin related. He\u2019s the captain of our all-star team. GoodSuite\u2019s own Derek Jeter.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Dan Strull, CEO, GoodSuite<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Robert Covington is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As Toshiba America Business Solutions\u2019 (TABS) product portfolio burgeoned the past 25 years, Covington played no small role in the development and marketing phase of many signature releases. He was part of the team that developed Toshiba\u2019s first printer controller and was instrumental in the OEM\u2019s successful transition from analog to digital products. Covington huddled with TABS\u2019 corporate parent in Japan to develop printers and MFPs for the U.S. market\u2014units that boasted some of the most competitive and feature-rich products in the industry. The Cal State Fullerton product has perfected the ability to repurpose complex technical information and relate it in simple terms, which has been vital in developing the materials needed to equip the company\u2019s sales teams with tools for success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cRobert has been an integral part of the product marketing team since joining Toshiba and is always someone you can count on to get things done\u2014and done well. Given a task and a deadline, Robert will work with a passion and tenacity that\u2019s hard to match. He always tackles a challenge keeping in mind what\u2019s best for the company. Robert\u2019s infectious can-do attitude, high energy and ability to work within a cross-functional team makes him an extremely valuable member of the team and the company.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Anthony Venice, Director, Product Marketing, Toshiba America Business Solutions<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Josh Craig is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In less than two years as general manager, Craig has made a quantifiable difference in Docugraphics\u2019 quest to scale for sustainable growth. Dubbed a \u201cborn integrator,\u201d his ability to rally the team while simplifying and automating work processes has enabled the dealership to make significant strides. Behind Craig\u2019s guidance, Docugraphics implemented the Traction-based Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a key tool for enhancing its ability to scale further growth and achieve operational excellence. A corporate cultural unifier, Craig helped foster a value-based relationship with team members, customers and vendor partners. He provided oversight and operational integration for two of Docugraphics\u2019 largest acquisitions, all the while demonstrating his exceptional skill in driving success. A graduate of Liberty University, Craig has an extensive resum\u00e9 that encompasses dealers, manufacturers and software companies, having served stints with Visual Edge IT, Technocom Business Systems, Sharp and ECI Software Solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cJosh Craig has been an outstanding addition to the DocuGraphics team, demonstrating his exceptional talent and skill in driving success and growth. He\u2019s proven himself to be a wonderful difference maker, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex challenges with ease and drive success for our company. We\u2019re extremely grateful for Josh\u2019s contributions to DocuGraphics and look forward to his continued leadership and innovation in the future.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Thomas Fimian, CEO, Docugraphics<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Steve Cundy is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This former Army Ranger has built a career providing consultation services that leverage his 20-plus years of leadership in business technology solutions across nearly every industry. As the CEO of veteran-owned Tuatara Consulting, Cundy has a proven track record of providing digital solutions and thought leadership that move his clientele\u2014which includes many Fortune 500 companies\u2014forward leveraging Microsoft, ServiceNow, Salesforce, IBM and Google platforms. He\u2019s consulted on digital transformation journeys for many dealer executives, with topics ranging from cloud transformation strategies, low-code automated solutions, data model simulation, cybersecurity and AI to getting organizations connected to the military ecosystem and onboarding more veteran talent. Last year, Cundy launched Taskforce Uplift, a veteran support nonprofit that focuses on closing the digital divide for veterans and their children. The organization donates laptops and connectivity, mentorship and technology training with the mission to break the poverty cycle and reduce veteran suicides in the military community. An executive MBA holder from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Cundy also touts an undergraduate degree in business systems management from the Milwaukee School of Engineering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTuatara is a great fit for the next generation of people in our industry who are going to help it grow past print. Steve\u2019s contributions to overall leadership capabilities and effective selling and communications are as good as it gets. He\u2019s young and aggressive, and offers diverse thinking and really great planning and expertise for anything he\u2019s been involved with. This is someone who\u2019s going to be one of our key leaders going forward in helping with dealer implementations.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Mike Stramaglio, President and CEO, Stramaglio Consulting<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Tim Cunningham is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Sales has long coursed through the blood of Cunningham, who has plied his craft since embarking on an 18-year tour of duty with IKON Office Solutions. In more than 10 years with Stratix Systems, he served as vice president for the Wyomissing, Pennsylvania-based dealer prior to being named executive vice president last December. Known for taking up-and-coming sales professionals under his wing, Cunningham takes pride in motivating and developing all team members while cultivating an atmosphere of success that paves the way to career advancement opportunities. Prior to joining Stratix, he spent eight-plus years as vice president of sales at Capitol Office Solutions, a Xerox Business Solutions Company in Columbia, Maryland. Cunningham graduated from James Madison University with a BS in marketing and economics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI\u2019ve had the pleasure of working with Tim for 10 years. During that time, he\u2019s proven himself as a leader and a person who cares about his team. Tim has a unique ability to make a personal connection with everyone he meets (staff and clients). His down-to-earth demeanor allows me to enjoy the job and run the extra mile for our goals.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Art Post, Senior Client Manager, Stratix Systems<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Sarah Custer is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A veritable Swiss Army knife in the world of managed print services (MPS), Custer\u2019s roles have evolved in the 20-plus years she\u2019s spent with Distribution Management. She advanced within the sales team before tackling the role of MPS program advisor, where her expertise and leadership were vital to accelerating MPS growth. Custer continued to make an impact in various capacities, including MPS solutions manager and also as vice president of services and solutions, where she led a team of solutions advisors responsible for MPS engagements and ultimately equipment sales and related services. It all led to her current VP of sales operations post, where she guides teams focused on sales and MPS operations. Custer also furnishes critical direction and design of program enhancements and vendor integrations. An innovative thought leader who continually looks for ways to streamline and enhance technology and processes, she\u2019s a trusted and respected colleague. Custer holds a BA and MBA from Webster University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThere isn\u2019t a challenge in our company or the industry that intimidates Sarah. She just rolls up her sleeves, gets to the root cause and then works collaboratively to get it solved. We\u2019re very lucky to have her at DM, and our partners around our industry would agree, as she\u2019s figured out how to make partnerships work between many companies and ours. Her can-do attitude and business acumen are a force to be reckoned with!\u201d<\/p>\u2014Michelle Kaufman, Vice President of Technology, Distribution Management<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Peter Davey is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Davey already made a name for himself prior to joining Toshiba in 2004, having plied his craft for IKON Office Solutions and Konica Minolta. But it was his domination in Florida with developing, building and increasing the revenue and profitability of TABS\u2019 professional services business that soon cast him into the role of national professional services lead, and the accolades have only continued. Davey has a demonstrated organizational development, project management and implementation skills, which earned him the respect of TABS\u2019 leadership, sales force, engineers and consultants. In his current role, Davey leads the development of Toshiba\u2019s national solutions and services strategy, including the firm\u2019s go-to-market approach; the adoption of national standards for consulting, implementation and support; and the adoption of tools, best practices and processes necessary to scale the business. His dedication to making solutions and services accessible and profitable to the Toshiba dealer community have also earned him high marks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe positive impact Peter\u2019s made here at Toshiba is evidenced in many ways. One of his signature contributions is the vast improvement he\u2019s had on our solutions and professional services business. Peter\u2019s specifically responsible for building and increasing the profitability of that business. He\u2019s additionally standardized employee roles and compensation within this element of our business. Moreover, Peter intuitively understands what our clients need to operate more profitably and efficiently while collaborating with our team members to implement the best solution possible.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Steven Sauer, Chief Revenue Officer, Toshiba America Business Solutions<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Randy Dazo is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Every school in the nation has that prodigy student who helps elevate its overall test scores, and the office technology sector has such an individual in Dazo. A brilliant mind and a friendly, easy-going demeanor have served him well the past 30 years, which has included stops among many notable brands such as Ricoh, Sharp, Minolta, Canon, InfoTrends and Net2Phone. His background includes strategy, marketing, sales, training, service, and professional services and solutions. At Keypoint Intelligence, he\u2019s responsible for all of the firm\u2019s current and new product strategies as well as the growth of these businesses. His groups are charged with the delivering and marketing of content, testing, products and services for the organization worldwide. The SUNY Stony Brook product is also renowned for his engaging and welcoming personality, making him a popular figure at industry events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWith his vast knowledge of the traditional print industry as well as newer areas such as managed IT and smart workplace, Randy Dazo is an outstanding resource who opens his ears when others are speaking. With his easy-going manner and wide-ranging humor, he\u2019s an absolute pleasure to work with. Randy was among the first analysts I ever met when I entered into print, and I was super excited to finally get to work with him when Buyers Lab acquired InfoTrends. But above everything else, Randy is just a guy who you want on your team, period.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Carl Schell, Channel Services and Group Publishing Director, Keypoint Intelligence<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why David Dwyer is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When he took over the supply chain and operations for Sharp more than 10 years ago, little did Dwyer know the spotlight that would be cast on his department\u2014and those of many other manufacturers\u2014when the global shortages of 2021 and 2022 reared their head. Dwyer authored, along with his team, a deft supply chain strategy that positioned Sharp as one of the precious few OEMs to not be significantly impacted by inventory availability and fulfillment delays. Behind Dwyer\u2019s leadership, Sharp was able to maintain a steady flow of inventory from factory to dealer throughout 2022. He\u2019s also a member of the Steering Committee for WISE (Women Influencing Sharp\u2019s Evolution) and is an active participant in Sharp\u2019s mentoring program. Prior to joining Sharp, the University of Scranton graduate served as a senior manager at Kraft Foods for four years and addressed multiple roles in a four-year stint with Nabisco Biscuit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cDave Dwyer\u2019s passion for enhancing supply chain and operational processes has made a significant difference in solving many of the logistics challenges we experienced as an imaging dealer. Dave\u2019s strategy in utilizing third-party partners, namely VMI via Tech Data, has been successful in achieving unified and efficient operations to the benefit of dealers across the country. Dave is truly a difference maker.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Moody Hamdan, Owner, A.D. Solutions<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhen I think of Dave Dwyer, I think back over the last couple years and how tremendously heavy the load he\u2019s carried has been. Through the many logistical nightmares he had to traverse, his cool and collected approach helped guide Sharp better than any in the industry.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Mark Miller, President, Eakes Office Solutions<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Christina Fisher is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The world of negotiating contractual terms in business may sound interesting and exciting, and that it would present a nice diversity in terms of ongoing projects. But it\u2019s also an exacting and often technical process that calls upon granular skills and precise knowledge. That\u2019s where Fisher shines for Toshiba America Business Solutions (TABS). She has oversight for the unit that responds to bids and prepares contract proposals for RFPs across the entire TABS business. The complexity increases when large purchasing consortiums and government agencies are involved, which can create huge challenges and obstacles. Complex terms and conditions can often lead to white-knuckle negotiations. It\u2019s essential for Fisher to ensure her team is well-versed in certain accounting and legal considerations, and she works closely with her organization\u2019s CFO and legal department to ensure compliance. As post-pandemic volumes continue to climb, Fisher has improved functional efficiency to reduce stress levels for her team. An MBA holder from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School with a BS from LeTourneau University, she\u2019s viewed as a consummate professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cChristina has the drive and passion to ensure bids and contract proposals are accurate and professional in their presentation, that deadlines are met and that business questions are answered timely. Christina is a perfectionist when it comes to compliance and can always be trusted to ensure thorough vetting of contract terms and conditions. As CFO, I have to sign many large contract deals, and it gives me added assurance knowing that Christina has reviewed and vetted the contract\/proposal.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Michael Torcaso, Vice President and CFO, Toshiba America Business Solutions<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Robin Fonck is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s a parallel between Fonck\u2019s role as a high school volleyball coach and her strategic technology position with GreatAmerica Financial Services (GAFS): in both, she\u2019s creating roadmaps to success. Her day job with GAFS centers on introducing and continually improving integrations that automate the transfer of vital information between the company and its partners, ultimately making business easier for end-users. Her curiosity and solutions-driven approach have enabled her to maintain a deep understanding of customer systems and processes. Past duties include contract management operations leader, with responsibility for the overall strategic direction of the team. In this role, she huddled with all GAFS business units and functional leaders, focusing on all aspects of invoicing, structural contract changes, dealer integrations and implementation of new billing programs. Fonck\u2019s willingness to tackle new or lesser-known technologies underscores her dedication to finding optimal solutions for customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cRobin has a passion for our office imaging customers and their success. She\u2019s been involved in process and technology reviews of some of our largest customers. They\u2019ve all expressed great value in her ability and willingness to thoroughly understand their needs and provide them with valued insights and solutions. She\u2019s developed great relationships with the software providers in our industry, and that collaboration has helped us be a better resource for our channel customers. Her hard work and strong collaboration skills have been instrumental in making GreatAmerica an industry leader in technology integrations.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Jennie Fisher, VP and GM, Office Equipment Group, GreatAmerica Financial Services<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Dave Galioto is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Galioto\u2019s growth has mirrored that of ECMSI over the past 20-plus years. An IT wunderkind, he first made his mark as service manager, helping build the technician staff while serving as a mentor to team members. As a key cog in ECMSI\u2019s leadership team, Galioto has helped usher the growth and evolution of the organization. In his current role, Galioto works closely with ECMSI\u2019s vendor partnerships while ensuring its IT strategy addresses the company\u2019s growth projection and vision. An innate problem-solver, he\u2019s been an indispensable facilitator for streamlining operations for both ECMSI and its partners, elevating IT support and security to optimal levels. Galioto has grown the company\u2019s internal support, security and project teams to provide continuous partner support and deliver the utmost in customer satisfaction. He\u2019s a member of ECMSI\u2019s Evolve peer group and works with nationwide MSPs on business and IT strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWorking with Dave provides an opportunity to always learn. He\u2019s extremely approachable and always has a door open for any questions, concerns or just to discuss ideas. I\u2019ve worked with Dave over the past four years, and I truly attribute a lot of my knowledge growth in the MSP industry to him. It would be difficult for me to think of a more experienced and friendly IT professional to help in my role.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Lauren Butka, Marketing Director, ECMSI<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Kelly Glaser is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When you\u2019re the head of sales for a leading national office technology dealership, it\u2019s akin to being the number-four hitter on a World Series-contending baseball team. Glaser may not have a baseball card to tout his achievements, but he\u2019s definitely attained all-star status during a career at Gordon Flesch Company spanning more than 30 years. He joined the organization as an account manager, then swiftly ascended the ranks as a major account executive, sales supervisor and then sales manager in charge of the Milwaukee sales unit. In 2012, Glaser was tasked with helping start (then leading) the company\u2019s new branch in Appleton, Wisconsin. Backed by his signature selling style and focus on building a solid culture, the Appleton branch quickly flourished. Glaser moved on to senior director of sales for the west region in 2017 before taking the sales reins of the entire organization this past January. An army veteran who served as a military police officer, Glaser graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a BS in business and accounting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cKelly has played a critical part in designing multiple sales programs and initiatives over the past few years while also staying very active in the field. He\u2019s had a solid impact on the growth of our company since his first day.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Patrick Flesch, President and CEO, GFC<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Ted Gruener is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n While he may not be drawing comparisons to the Energizer Bunny, Gruener\u2019s boundless energy is legendary in the halls of Distribution Management. Backed by vast experience and a propensity for cultivating meaningful relationships with clients, he\u2019s been essential in enabling the company\u2019s reseller channel to thrive. He arrived at Distribution Management in 2016 as director of business development and quickly ascended to vice president of sales, where he\u2019s responsible for providing oversight and direction to the regional sales teams and business development managers. In the post-pandemic era, Gruener has spearheaded efforts to proliferate the company\u2019s addition of A3 supplies and expanded barcode portfolio, educating reseller clients on strategies to combat supply chain challenges, cost increases and labor shortages. The resume of this Missouri State University grad is a who\u2019s who of the industry, ranging from U.S. Office Products to Boise, Corporate Express and OfficeMax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cTed gives 110% no matter what it is\u2026work, cycling, trail running, life. His unique perspective having spent time as a reseller himself really fuels his passion for finding solutions for our customers. A3 distribution is a game changer for DM and many of our partners, and Ted\u2019s leadership around this category of our business will undoubtedly ensure its success for all parties. Thank you for all you do, Ted. You\u2019re definitely a difference maker here at DM and beyond.\u201d<\/p>\u2014Mike Wyatt, Business Development Manager, Distribution Management<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Robert Gurney is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n It takes a lot of guts\u2014not to mention a degree of confidence\u2014to pack up and move 500-plus miles from one city to another in search of a better life. It\u2019s another matter to then leave a lucrative sales job in Chicago to open a start-up business in the confines of a garage. Such was the path taken by Gurney, who connected the dots from Buffalo, New York, to Chicago in order to be closer to family. He then summoned the courage, at age 29, to exit a job as a branch sales manager\u2014where he surpassed quotas and delivered stellar results\u2014to hang a shingle as the CEO of his own company, Evoke Networking, in 2020. Add bonus points for doing so in the teeth of the pandemic, but Gurney remained unshaken in his quest to grow as a managed print services provider. He\u2019s carved a niche for himself in delivering unparalleled solutions and services to clients seeking to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving technological landscape. Gurney and Co. moved into a new Rolling Meadows, Illinois, headquarters in 2022, where he seeks to transform the industry one customer at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cRobert\u2019s unwavering dedication to helping people is what truly sets him apart. His passion for assisting clients through challenging financial situations and improving workplace operations is where he finds his greatest fulfillment. As he works tirelessly to empower business owners and managers with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions, he earns their trust and provides invaluable insights and guidance to help them thrive even in the face of daunting challenges. Through his commitment to helping people and his community, Robert is a true difference maker, leaving a lasting impact on the organizations he touches and the lives of their employees.\u201d<\/p>\u2014David Jez, IT Technician, Evoke Networking<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Why Jason Habbal is a difference maker:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Alberico-Valerie.jpg\")
<\/strong>Chief Commercial Officer
<\/em>Clover Imaging Group<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Baroletti-Matthew.jpg\")
<\/strong>Senior Director, <\/em>
Solutions Engineering, <\/em>
Technology Systems and <\/em>
Technical Support Center
BICG Engineering <\/em>
Services and Solutions<\/em>
Canon U.S.A.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Braendle-Josh.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President of Sales, <\/em>
North America<\/em>
Static Control<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Brewer-Charles.jpg\")
President<\/em>
Actionable Intelligence<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Burrell-Greg.jpg\")
Vice President of Service<\/em>
Doing Better Business<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
This special issue would not have been possible without the input of the many individuals who took the time to respond to our requests for nominations and comments about this year’s Difference Makers. We would like to thank everyone who participated over the past several months to help put this issue together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Calise-Erica.jpg\")
<\/strong>Director, Corporate and <\/em>
Government Marketing<\/em>
Sharp Imaging and
Information Company
of America<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Chacko-Thomas.jpg\")
Vice President of Operations<\/em>
GoodSuite<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Covington-Robert.jpg\")
<\/strong>Senior Product<\/em>
Marketing Manager<\/em>
Toshiba America
Business Solutions<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Craig-Josh.jpg\")
<\/strong>General Manager
<\/em>Docugraphics<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Cundy-Steve.jpg\")
<\/strong>CEO<\/em>
Tuatara Consulting<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Cunningham-Tim.jpg\")
<\/strong>Executive Vice President
<\/em>Stratix Systems<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Custer-Sarah.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President
of Sales Operations<\/em>
Distribution Management<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Davey-Peter.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President
of Solutions and
Professional Services<\/em>
Toshiba America
Business Solutions<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dazo-Randy.jpg\")
<\/strong>Chief Strategy
and Product Officer<\/em>
Keypoint Intelligence<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Dwyer-David.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President, <\/em>
Supply Chain and Logistics<\/em>
Sharp Imaging and
Information Company
of America<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Fisher-Christina.jpg\")
<\/strong>Director Bids,
Proposals and Contracts,
Enterprise Administration<\/em>
Toshiba America Business Solutions<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Fonck-Robin.jpg\")
<\/strong>Director of Strategic <\/em>
Technology
<\/em>GreatAmerica Financial
Services<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Galioto-Dave.jpg\")
<\/strong>Chief Information Officer<\/em>
ECMSI<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Glaser-Kelly.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President <\/em>
of Sales and Marketing<\/em>
Gordon Flesch Company<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Gruener-Ted.jpg\")
<\/strong>Vice President of Sales<\/em>
Distribution Management<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.enxmag.com\/twii\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/Gurney-Robert.jpg\")
<\/strong>Co-Founder and CEO<\/em>
Evoke Networking<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n