What’s your role in the firm, and how do you make a difference?

As the IT Director for GHJ, it is my role to continue to evolve our technology stack and determine the best use of our IT budget to support the firm. I help my clients (the people who work at GHJ) #BeMore by understanding their technology needs and working with them to identify opportunities to leverage technology for improvements in processes and procedures. This allows our people to #BeMore by focusing on the work they enjoy the most instead of repetitive or mundane tasks.

Who is/was the biggest influence in your business life and how did s/he shape who you’ve become?

I have been very fortunate to have several good mentors over the years that helped me get to this point in my career. My wife Megan has been a huge influence both through her constant support and learning through her as she's created and developed her own graphic design and marketing business. GHJ's Tom Barry and Satpal Nagpal have been valuable mentors and provided guidance and faith in me that has helped me grow as a leader. Finally my Mom, who built her own business while raising me, taught me that with the right attitude and work ethic, all dreams are possible.

Describe the best thing about GHJ and why it matters to you.

The passion for the community and efforts to be a positive force in Los Angeles are a huge part of the culture at GHJ and the people who work here. That is important to me as I want to contribute positively to my community and pay forward the good fortune I have had in my professional and personal life.

What makes you get up in the morning, and how does it impact your work style?

It is simple, but just living life. At the age of 25 I was diagnosed with cancer and nearly did not survive an intensive surgery that was part of my treatment. I look at every day I have had since as a gift, and I try to make the most of that gift.

What issues in our community do you most care about, and how does it motivate you?

Issues of equality and the environment are two big ones for me. I am aware of the privilege I enjoy as a white male, and I believe that all people should have those same opportunities. I have leveraged the platform I have with my comedy show to raise money for the Marsha P. Johnson foundation, which provides services to the black transgender community.