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Bryant University congratulates the Cox Business is proud winners of the 2018 Providence Business News to continue its long standing Business Excellence Awards. We applaud their sponsorship of Providence commitment to excellence and salute their Business News’ Business accomplishments and inspiration to excel. Excellence Awards. We Visit www.bryant.edu to learn more about the top- applaud all the businesses ranked programs offered by Bryant’s College of being honored and wish them Business, College of Arts and Sciences, School of continued success! Health Sciences, and Executive Development Center.

The success of Brown University Partridge Snow & Hahn and Rhode Island have been intertwined from is proud to recognize the winners the Industrial Age to the Knowledge Economy. of the 2018 Business Excellence Working together, we launch new ventures; Awards. The dedication, vision, advance discoveries in science, health care hard work and commitment and technology; and educate the next generation shown by those being recognized of leaders, locally and globally. Brown is exemplary. Congratulations University is proud to be part of the Providence to all honorees. business community. Visit brown.edu.

www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 3 PUBLISHER’S LETTER TABLE OF CONTENTS LEADERS IN TODAY’S BUSINESS universities are seen as significant BUSINESS LEADERSHIP...... pg. 6 WORLD are required to master economic engines for their com- Christina H. Paxson, President | Brown University skills across many disciplines. munities. But perhaps none is so important As Paxson said, “bringing peo- CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP...... pg. 8 as the ability to ple together to develop a consensus Dr. Timothy J. Babineau, President and CEO | Lifespan Corp. build teams that around priorities and plans” is a COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT...... pg. 10, 11 mix different must in order to move any enter- talents, per- prise forward. And she is doing just National Grid Rhode Island sonalities and that, to the great benefit of Rhode EXCELLENCE AT AN ENTERPRISE COMPANY...... pg. 12 perspectives to Island and the region. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island produce the best So even as her successes are outcomes. singular, they are also a testament EXCELLENCE AT A LARGE COMPANY...... pg. 14 This reality to the power of collaboration, just Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. is made clear like for all the rest of the 2018 BEA EXCELLENCE AT A MIDSIZE COMPANY...... pg. 18 through the winners. successive profiles of the honorees The BEA program would not Trinity Repertory Company in this year’s Business Excellence be able to shine a spotlight on the EXCELLENCE AT A SMALL COMPANY...... pg. 20, 21 Awards program, the 18th edi- region’s high-achieving business Capital Good Fund tion of PBN’s flagship recognition leaders and enterprises without program. the help of corporate sponsorship. EXCELLENCE AT A SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCY...... pg. 22 Nowhere is the need to use Their support testifies to their Adoption Rhode Island collaboration as a tool for advance- commitment to the health of the EXCELLENCE AT A NONPROFIT...... pg. 23 ment made more clear than in region’s business community. the profile of this year’s winner Returning as presenting sponsor Local Initiatives Support Corp. Rhode Island for Business Leadership, Brown of the Business Excellence Awards EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND LEARNING...... pg. 24 University President Christina H. for the third consecutive year is Project GOAL Inc. Paxson. blumshapiro. Partner sponsors this A distinguished economist and year are Brown University, Bryant EXCELLENCE IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT...... pg. 25 expert in public health, Paxson University, Cox Business and Par- William M. Davies Jr. Career and Technical High School leads a sprawling enterprise, one tridge Snow & Hahn LLP. that ranges from offering a world- EXCELLENCE IN WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS...... pg. 28 class undergraduate education to Gil’s Appliances training the next generation of en- EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP...... pg. 29 gineers, physicians, public health Renaud Megard, Nameplates For Industry Corp. practitioners, and researchers and teachers in the arts and sciences. Roger C. Bergenheim EXCELLENCE IN FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS...... pg. 30 As if that were not enough, today’s President and Publisher Ocean State Job Lot

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4 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com Brown University congratulates the 2018 Business Excellence Award honorees.

As an anchor of Rhode Island’s economy, Brown honors the spirit of collaboration and community engagement among the Providence business and nonprofit sectors.

www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 5 BUSINESS LEADERSHIP CHRISTINA H. PAXSON PRESIDENT, BROWN UNIVERSITY

DYNAMIC DIRECTION: Christina H. Paxson, president of Brown University, in the Bruhn Room in the university’s John Hay Library. PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

which focuses on discovering and applying strategies to improve the lives of children, and not just in Rhode Island. “The institute’s emphasis is on childhood obesity, autism and asthma, and we’re doing our work Paxson charts in Rhode Island for the benefit of those here,” she said, “but the lessons we draw are global. These Brown’s future in issues affect Rhode Island, the country and the world, and we’re collaborative effort very proud to be doing this work.” Paxson is the second female president of Brown. According to the 2017 American College Presi- dent Survey, women comprised 30 BY PAUL E. KANDARIAN | Contributing Writer percent of college presidents in the United States and women of color CHRISTINA H. PAXSON, PRESIDENT OF BROWN UNIVERSITY since 2012, knows just 5 percent. “you can’t just do what you want to do” when it comes to leading a business or an “When I go to Association of American Universities’ meetings, Ivy League university. there aren’t many women around,” But you can delegate, she said, “bringing people together to develop a consen- Paxson said. “It’s disturbing. But look at the pipeline of women in sus around priorities and plans,” adding she learned some of those leadership sciences and the environment, tools when she was dean of the Woodrow Wilson School of International and Pub- social sciences that had been very male-dominated for 30 years, and lic Affairs at Princeton before being named Brown’s 19th president. things are getting better. It’s a mat- The additions to and expansion of the university grams.” ter of time. during her tenure have been many and varied, Under her leadership, Brown opened a new “On the other hand,” she added, including investing in its College Hill campus and School of Public Health, launched the Institute “You can’t count on time to make Providence’s Jewelry District, and being an anchor at Brown for Environment and Society, and is expe- it happen. You need a board when tenant in the $220 million South Street Landing riencing a renaissance in social sciences in con- looking for a new president to Project. nection with the Watson Institute for Public and think hard about building pools of She also worked with students, faculty and staff International Affairs. diversity. There are a lot of great to develop “Building on Distinction,” a 10-year “It’s important for us to be at the forefront of people out there.” strategic plan launched in 2014 to shape the univer- those key issues, because you look at them, public As to any legacy she’d like to sity’s growth and progress. health, the environment and society and so forth, leave at Brown, she said, “I want “That was built around the premise that by tar- these are the major challenges of our time,” she Brown to be significantly stronger geting investments playing to Brown’s strengths, said, adding that Brown’s School of Public Health than when I came. We’ve made a lot we can be a greater university with a stronger and Brown’s Warren Alpert Medical School are of progress in six years and hope to international reputation and a more impactful addressing the nation’s opioid crisis as well. “And keep at the same pace.” n presence in society,” Paxson said. we’re looking at That plan stresses aggressive experimentation climate change, in new modes of education that rely on online not by just learning and the use of other digital technologies, addressing it ‘Public health, the environment which Paxson says is happening at Brown. but seeing how “Institutions take differing paths of using online to protect the tools, and our approach is still evolving, but we’ve environment.” and society and so forth, developed a number of executive master’s degree She also programs and can have students from all over the pointed to the world getting their degrees,” she said. “We’re also creation in 2015 these are the major doing more online teaching of Brown students, of Brown Uni- more courses in edX [an online learning destina- versity’s Has- tion and massive open online course, or MMOC senfeld Child challenges of our time.’ provider], a great platform for producing shorter Health Innova- CHRISTINA H. PAXSON, pieces so content can be used for certificate pro- tion Institute, Brown University president

6 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com EXCELLENCE DOESNʼT COME EASY. You make it look like it does.

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 7 CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP DR. TIMOTHY J. BABINEAU PRESIDENT AND CEO, LIFESPAN CORP.

DEVOTED LEADER: Dr. Timothy J. Babineau, right, sees service as not just his profession but as a way of life he is passing along to his children, as it was passed on to him as a boy. Babineau speaks with David Levesque, media relations, Lifespan. PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

the co-sponsor of the Providence JUMP Bike Share System and uses a Prescribe a Bike program to benefit patients in need of transpor- tation options and better access to physical-fitness opportunities. Lifespan’s hospitals and pro- grams are designed to care for the sick. But the company also has a slew of preventive measures in the community to keep people healthy, Babineau says, including Service ethic comes oral health screenings for children; a demonstration kitchen to teach people how to cook healthy and full circle for Babineau affordable meals; a health-literacy program; smoking-cessation pro- grams; and Bradley Hospital’s Par- BY PAUL E. KANDARIAN | Contributing Writer enting Matters and Temas Famili- ares (Spanish Parenting Matters). WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING A CAREER, sometimes family influence is the Babineau was the last of seven children in a family that had help- most powerful of all. For Dr. Timothy J. Babineau, president and CEO of Lifespan ing others in its DNA, he says. And Corp. since 2012, that influence included happily carrying his father’s medical now with two teenage girls of his own, that legacy of community bag during house calls, back in the day when such things existed. involvement continues. It’s also where Babineau saw firsthand the power of community service and “There’s a constant reminder to my girls about how fortunate we helping others. are as a family and how important “I remember one instance when I was sitting at upon completing the program, Babineau said. it is to give back,” he said. “My the table with a large, extended family of French “Nearly 20 initiatives, such as Lifespan’s men- oldest, Kate, has volunteered two Canadians,” Babineau said. “We were playing gin toring and youth-employment programs, are in- summers in a row with the Lifes- rummy to keep me occupied while my father was in tended to mitigate the effects of social determinants pan Community Health Institute. the bedroom of his patient, who was passing away. on health,” he said. “They not only educate young My youngest, Marina, has been “When he came out, all the ladies and men people about healthy behaviors but also provide actively involved in food and cloth- hugged my dad and thanked him for helping,” he examples of ways in which a young person can find ing drives in the Barrington public continued. “As a young boy, I was confused as to a path to improved income, and thus a healthier school system.” why they thanked him, considering his patient life situation in general.” Doing these things, he says, is died. I get it now.” He said raising the economic status of young not so much an afterthought as a Babineau just marked 10 years since coming to people in poverty strengthens the state’s workforce way of life. Rhode Island, and “looking back, some of the most and benefits Rhode Island by “creating jobs and “It’s how I was raised,” Babi- gratifying moments have been my involvement in adding to income tax coffers. Most importantly, neau said, “so it’s how I try to raise the community.” the programs improve the health and well-being my daughters.” n Prior to his appointment leading Lifespan, he’d of populations served as president and CEO of Rhode Island Hos- across our ser- pital and The Miriam Hospital and, before coming vice areas.” to Rhode Island in 2008, was senior vice president According ‘There’s a constant reminder and chief medical officer for the University of to the Lifespan Maryland Medical Center and School of Medicine website, under in Baltimore. Babineau’s to my girls about … His community involvement mirrors Lifespan’s, leadership, with the company’s myriad activities in the state. Lifespan contrib- Babineau is proud of them all, he said, but a few utes an average how important it is “rise to the top, such as the Year-Up program. … of $900,000 in The work they do with youth and giving them jobs partnerships and to give back.’ is extraordinary.” sponsorships That program this year worked with more than annually. Ear- DR. TIMOTHY J. BABINEAU, 60 interns from neighborhoods around Rhode lier this year, the Island Hospital, and Lifespan hired most of them company became Lifespan Corp. president and CEO 8 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com INSPIRED TO EXCEL

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 9 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Energized service aids community

BY SUSAN SHALHOUB | Contributing Writer

NATIONAL GRID RHODE ISLAND dives right in when it comes to com- munity service – or at least wades in – as volunteers did recently with Save The Bay, to help the organization replace eelgrass. Many eelgrass beds have been lost due to pollution and other factors, and it’s a food source for PITCHING IN: From left, marine life. So a National Grid team National Grid Rhode Island employees Walter Palmer and donned waders – and got involved. Chelsea Perkins help paint a room at a homeless shelter for “We’re taking a boat from Charles- the Community Care Alliance in Woonsocket on Oct. 19. National town beach and … working in Nini- Grid employees volunteer their gret Pond,” said National Grid’s time for a variety of causes throughout the state. Marisa Albanese, manager of com- PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY NATIONAL GRID RHODE ISLAND munity and customer management, before the excursion.

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10 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Environmental projects – such on the board of the Rhode Island nections. In North Kingstown, for STEM-related activities with them as eelgrass restoration – and com- Public Expenditure Council, for example, National Grid does volun- for the first half of the year. munity service, education and example. teer work with Davisville Middle National Grid’s local involve- safety are the four main areas Na- And the ways the company gives School. It was able to connect ment benefits the community, but tional Grid commits to in the areas back are varied and diverse, Alba- Davisville with a United Way grant it also benefits the company and its it serves. nese said. program to help it continue some of team members, Albanese said. “These are areas we feel are “Sometimes employees give us its after-school programming over Company-sponsored projects pretty key to our customers,” said ideas. … In our Lincoln office, they the summer, said Albanese. often put those who are not in lead- Timothy F. Horan, president of like to collect hats and mittens for Specifically, in the area of educa- ership roles in the company into National Grid Rhode Island. kids.” Others like to buy other gifts tion, National Grid supports STEM leadership roles for these commu- Specific examples include the for children’s charities, she said. (science, technology, engineering nity efforts, she said. The National gas and electric company’s Lunch In other instances, the culture of and math) efforts. Grid locations in Rhode Island also on Us program, through which it community service and dedication Last year, National Grid also put help out at each other’s local proj- provides and serves lunch to the spills over in less-structured ways. volunteer employees out there as ects when possible. needy at McAuley House in Provi- Albanese tells of the team at the Na- mentors, joining with Big Brothers “It allows people from different dence for the month of May; a City tional Grid Dexter Street location Big Sisters for the Beyond School parts of the state to meet,” she said. Year Rhode Island event at Gilbert in Providence jumping in with a Walls program. Fifteen students “It builds teamwork and camara- Stuart Middle School to assemble Bobcat one winter when someone from Providence’s Lillian Feinstein derie. It feels good to support these teacher-appreciation packets; and there noticed the principal of the Elementary School were matched projects and our communities in promotion of the United Way 211 Alfred Lima Elementary School up with employee mentors and did general.” n emergency line for storm prepared- nearby, shoveling snow. ness. Albanese said National Grid has These efforts are all part of an advantage working in Rhode the company’s Power To Serve Island, a small state where connec- program. Last year, 30 percent of tions seem to come easier. She said National Grid’s 950 Rhode Island vetting the nonprofits National ‘It feels good to support employees volunteered in the com- Grid supports is simple due to the munity. company’s already high level of these projects and our It has a core group of agencies it local involvement. serves in ways that often overlap, “We don’t ask for very formal Horan and Albanese said. In addi- reports,” she said. “Though we communities in general.’ tion to volunteer work, its leaders aren’t just writing a check. We’re serve on the boards of numerous involved in what they are doing.” MARISA ALBANESE, National Grid manager of nonprofits, including Horan being Often this results in lasting con- community and customer management

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 11 EXCELLENCE AT AN ENTERPRISE COMPANY er, are accountable for the costs.” The company leads by example. After watching its employee health care costs rise 56 percent in the early 2000s, leadership examined its own plan sustainability and reversed the cost trend by 20 percent. As a result, in 2017 Blue Cross con- tributed $23 million into reserves to pay future claims, although the single greatest factor was a one-time invest- ment gain of $10 million. From 2013 to 2017, the insurer says it averaged approximately $21 million a year in operating gain but $23 million a year in overall net loss. Many new efficiencies come from a more patient-centered system and ad- vanced primary care, linking patient care providers together virtually, or in a coordinated environment, with oversight from a primary care doctor. OLD SCHOOL: From left, Blue “The more contact with the Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island’s director of retail primary care doctor, the better the strategy and operations Paul quality of care and the lower the cost,” Ryan, Melissa Cummings, explained Collins, adding that Blue chief customer officer, and Dr. Cross is also helping members find Matt Collins, vice president affordable medication and manage of clinical integration, discuss upcoming enrollment at the treatment. company’s East Providence BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND “Medications do no good if you’re Your Blue Store. not taking them,” said Collins. PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY Behavioral health is getting more attention, with Blue Cross encourag- ing doctors to screen patients at regu- lar exams for behavioral health, sub- stance abuse and depression, among Blue Cross blends old, other indicators. The company has removed the prior-approval require- ment for in-network mental health or new to educate, substance-use disorder services and lowered the copayment for outpatient office visits. increase value Health insurance offers a set of benefits and a network of physicians, BY WENDY PIERMAN MITZEL | Contributing Writer Collins explained. “Now we custom- ize and personalize those options to BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF RHODE ISLAND, a leading health insurance get individuals and employees to use provider for nearly 80 years, is looking to the lessons of the past, as well as the them.” n ­opportunities of the future, to serve its nearly 400,000 members. Take, for instance, the way the company is bucking the trend of online every- thing, instead opening brick-and-mortar stores in East Providence, Lincoln and Warwick. At Your Blue Stores, members speak in person with representatives ‘We’re in the about their plans, their care choices and even get advice from an on-site nurse. Community rooms offer places for members to meet for free exercise or well-being business of classes, including caregiver support groups. Since 2014, Rhode Islanders have made nearly 60,000 visits to these locations. providing “We’re making investments in our communi- that identifies health care practices providing safe, ties in meaningful ways,” said Melissa Cummings, affirming and inclusive care to the LGBTQ com- for the health chief customer officer for Blue Cross. “We’re in the munity. business of providing for the health and well-being “Insurance is looking to help patients differenti- of Rhode Island.” ate between excellent and average health care,” and well- As such, customization is a key part of Blue said Dr. Matt Collins, vice president of clinical Cross’ strategy to encourage customers to gain the integration. most value they can for the money spent. With the Affordable Care Act encouraging more being of “The reality of the personalization of the stores individual plan choices and employers to offer the is it is keeping pace with what we are able to do in health plans, the need has never been greater. Blue Rhode our own lives,” she said. “We personalize every- Cross aims to show businesses how to grow and thing. Insurance has to keep pace.” thrive by attracting talent, offering wellness incen- New opportunities include accessibility to a tives and using data-driven tools to provide choices Island.’ podcast – the “Rhode to Health” – that explains and control costs. MELISSA CUMMINGS, complex health care issues for customers and high- “The ACA opened up the market and necessi- lights beneficial community partners. tated moving from business to business, to busi- Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Blue Cross also aims to give patients all the ness to consumer,” said Cummings. “It presents an Rhode Island chief information they need to make informed decisions, important opportunity. There are changes in the customer officer including the recent LGBTQ Safe Zone program consumption of health care when you, the consum- 12 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com Advertisement A strong past, a brighter future For brothers Tony and Dave Zelano, insurance is the family business. Established over fifty years ago by their father, Richard Zelano, the team has built off the foundation he set for them, expanding from one location to four in just over seven years and becoming the largest Nationwide agency in Rhode Island.

A family business By the time Tony’s brother, Dave, joined Looking towards the future Zelano Insurance’s roots date back the family business, the insurance Along with hard work, Tony gives this to 1964, when Richard Zelano added industry was rapidly changing, with higher advice to other business owners, Nationwide Insurance to his accounitng rates and competition from internet sales “Live for tomorrow, not today.” practice. During that time rates were good, of insurance. Richard continued to run When Richard decided that his tomorrow and there was less competition. It was a the accounting portion of the company, would be retirement, he handed his smart business decision that led to the along with day-to-day operations while business over to his sons, which laying of the foundation of the thriving his two sons concentrated on growing the transformed their roles. The brothers had insurance business that his two sons, Tony business through sales. both concentrated on sales, while their and Dave run today. father ran the accounting and business “I remember having conversations with end of operations. Dad when I was in high school about Building the foundation “Dave shifted into management and taking over the insurance side of things,” When you meet Tony, it’s easy to see operations. It’s great,” says Tony about the says Tony when asked how he decided to why he’s been so successful at the sales changes. join the family business. part of the business. For him, it’s more than just selling insurance – it’s about “He’s very methodical and “As soon as I graduated college, building lasting relationships with clients, analytical, where with sales, I jumped right in, learning and that’s what makes him and his team I’m constantly the one who firsthand about sales and different than the large internet based says ‘yes’ – Dave makes sure to companies that are their competitors. customer service.” balance me out.” “We take the time to look at our Together, the brothers knew they wanted client’s holistic needs. We want the business to grow. The team expanded to build a foundation so as their through the acquisition of existing needs change; we’re there for Nationwide offices throughout Rhode Island, going from five employees to them and able to provide them nearly twenty with four locations. with what they need at the best “Dad had an existing relationship with rates possible.” Ken Martin [Chief Commercial Lending Over the last five decades, the Zelano’s Officer] at Savings Institute. When we have built a foundation of trust with the needed funding to acquire the new Rhode Island community as the insurance Cumberland location, the bank made it agency that’s ‘always there for you.’ When easy,” Tony explains his experience with asked how they did it, Tony says, “Dad Savings Institute Bank & Trust. “I didn’t always taught us that if you work hard, need to invest a ton of my time into the everything will come.” transaction. The bank streamlined the process and made it easy for us.”

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“When we needed funding to acquire the new Cumberland location, the bank made it easy, I didn’t need to invest a ton of my time into the transaction. The bank streamlined the process and made it easy for us.” Savings Institute Bank & Trust is proud to have helped Zelano’s Insurance continue to build lasting relationships with their clients in new markets. Just as the family strives to meet their client’s needs now and in the future, the bank does the same. Give Dave Caruso a call at (401) 450-2955 to talk about how we can help your business thrive.

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 13 EXCELLENCE AT A LARGE COMPANY most recently a seminar addressing workplace violence, bringing together a panel of law enforcement representa- tives, medical professionals, human resources talent and attorneys for 200 TEAM CULTURE: attendees. Starkweather & Shepley “We are cognizant that as we grow Insurance Brokerage CEO and learn, our clients do as well,” said Larry Keefe speaks to sales Petrella. “We want to adapt to the staff during a morning meeting at the company’s landscape and take care of clients in East Providence office. their best interests.” PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO At the end of the event, Starkweath- er & Shepley partnered with an insur- ance carrier partner to donate $5,000 to a workplace violence nonprofit. It’s typical of the company’s commitment to charity. This year employees helped raise more than $50,000 for various organizations. Petrella and Keefe say the company culture is team-oriented, stemming from the fact that the private company is held in trust for the benefit of the associates and stakeholders. It’s essen- tial that all voices are listened to and new ideas considered. For instance, within the last few years the company has seen a focus on employee satisfaction transitioning from accrued paid-time-off to what is called “beneficial time-off,” a respon- sibly used, unlimited paid vacation plan. “We are all adults and responsible,” said Keefe. “As long as you get busi- STARKWEATHER & SHEPLEY ness done and in a thoughtful manner, take as much time as you need. If you have to take a child or your mother or INSURANCE BROKERAGE INC. father to the doctor’s, we provide that flexibility.” The company also abides by a “Dress for Your Day” policy that al- lows employees to dress for either cor- porate meetings or a day at the desk. Starkweather & Shepley recently held an annual outing at which all Looking out for clients’ the employees traveled to Newport Vineyards for a day of lawn games, rest and relaxation. interests yields growth “It’s a way of getting to know each other so we feel more like family,” BY WENDY PIERMAN MITZEL | Contributing Writer said Keefe. “And it’s a chance to take a breath.” n IN JANUARY, Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. will celebrate 140 years of developing a standard of performance that combines tradition with a ‘The growing platform to offer insurance, risk management and related services in a global economy. fundamentals of “The fundamentals of everyone here include three traits: passion, commit- ment and competency,” said CEO Larry Keefe. “By maintaining those values, everyone here we can be thought leaders on behalf of our clients. … Employers today need a resource partner when making business decisions.” includes three From a small office in 1879 to 14 offices across the company an advantage. Pair that with 260 four states, Starkweather & Shepley is one of the employees dedicated to serving client needs and a fastest-growing brokerage companies in the area. network of 26 unit managers who meet consistent- traits: passion, From 2015 to present, the company has reported ly, and the opportunity for success is profound. more than 10 percent revenue increases each year, “I tend to see it as a middle-up-and-out type of while the industry average is closer to 5 percent, approach to leadership,” explained Keefe. “I may commitment according to Keefe, the result being annual rev- not have all the great ideas, but I know a great idea enue of $55 million. when I see one.” “Our growth is consistent,” he said. “It’s nearly At the forefront of company strategy is pro- and double over our peers and the largest in Rhode viding customers with more than a guarantee of Island. We are ranked nationally, now the 61st- insurance coverage. Stefan Petrella, director of competency.’ largest broker in 2017.” corporate communications and media, said the LARRY KEEFE, Keefe said the ability to offer a hyper-diversified East Providence agency hosts several conferences menu of 60 carriers and access to 200 options gives each year for clients and other business leaders, Starkweather & Shepley Insurance Brokerage Inc. CEO 14 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com ChildrenChildren first,first, andand always.always.

Helping one child may not change the world, but it could change the world for that child.

Adoption Rhode Island

Two Bradford Street • Providence, RI • 401-865-6000 • AdoptionRI.org

n PBN_ARI November Ad.indd 1 www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 10/26/182018 10:19| 15 AM events 2019

BOOK OF LISTS PREMIER EVENT JANUARY 24 The best business networking event of the year! Business leaders and executives join PBN in honoring the many companies featured in the Book of Lists.

MANUFACTURING AWARDS MARCH 13 Celebrate the Manufacturing Renaissance that is evolving regionally and across the country. The PBN Manufacturing Awards recognizes manufacturers in multiple award categories, and one individual receives the Leadership & Strategy Award.

C-SUITE AWARDS APRIL 25 PBN’s C-Suite Awards program recognizes top C-level executives for public, private and nonprofit companies who are innovators, trailblazers, role models and leaders in the community.

BUSINESS WOMEN AWARDS MAY 23 PBN honors the success of women in a variety of industries and recognizes younger, professional women to watch as well as industry leaders. A career achiever and outstanding mentor are also honored.

BEST PLACES TO WORK IN RHODE ISLAND JUNE 13 Celebrate the state’s best employers, who are selected based on extensive employee surveys and 2017 feedback reports from Best Companies Group.

40 UNDER FORTY JULY 18 Recognizes forty men and women, under the age of 40, who are successful in their careers and involved in their communities. 2016

HEALTHIEST EMPLOYERS AUGUST 8 Healthiest Employers in Rhode Island recognizes employers who have implemented worksite Health & Wellness programs and have shown a commitment to employee health and safety.

FASTEST GROWING/INNOVATIVE COMPANIES SEPTEMBER 18 This program highlights the region’s Fastest Growing Companies and those that are especially innovative in developing new processes, products and services that improve competitiveness and spur growth.

BUSINESS BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS NOVEMBER 7 EXCELLENCE PBN’s Premier Awards Event recognizes leadership and general excellence at private and public companies AWARDS and nonprofit organizations. PBN SUMMITS Economic Trends FEBRUARY Health Care (spring) APRIL Cybersecurity OCTOBER Health Care (fall) OCTOBER Diversity & Inclusion DECEMBER

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE | 401-680-4800 | [email protected] PBN Events 2019: Updated 11/1/2018

16 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS PBN 2019 EDITORIAL CALENDAR SPECIAL DATE LIST FOCUS REPORT SUPPLEMENT EVENT 4 Private Secondary Schools Education 11 International Tax Preparers; Foreign Owned Companies Accounting 18 Employee Benefit Administrators Insurance 25 Commercial/Industrial Services; Commercial Real Estate Book of Lists Book of Lists Premier Event, JANUARY Property Management Firms 1/24

1 Energy Companies Energy 8 Residential Real Estate Agencies High End Residential Real Estate Economic Trends Summit, date TBD 15 Hospitals; Rehab & Occupational Health Centers Health Care Summit Recap

FEBRUARY 22 Estate Planners Law Review 1 RI Banks Banking & Finance 8 Business Development Resources Business Valuation & Succession 15 General Contractors Construction, Design & Architecture Manufacturing Awards Manufacturing Awards, 3/13 22 College Technology Programs; Regional IT Employers Technology Careers MARCH 29 Providence Restaurants; RI Distilleries, Breweries & The Food Industry Vineyards 5 Independent Insurance Agencies Insurance Health Care Summit, date TBD 12 Adult Education Adult Education Summit Recap

APRIL 19 Regional Hotels; Boutique Hotels Meetings and Social Events 26 Comm RE Sales: Office, Retail & Industrial Commercial Real Estate C-Suite Awards C-Suite Awards, 4/25 3 SBA Loans; SBA Lenders Small Business 10 RI Health & Dental Insurers; MA Health & Dental Insurers Health Care 17 IP Lawyers Law Review

MAY 24 Veteran Employers Veterans in the Workplace Business Women Business Women Awards, 5/23 31 Health Care Educators Health Care Employment 7 Tax Rates, RI Construction, Design & Architecture 14 Manufacturers Manufacturing Best Places to Work Best Places to Work Awards, 6/13

JUNE 21 Credit Unions, Regional Banks Banking & Finance 28 IT Services; Biotech & Life Sciences Cos. Technology 5 Meeting Facilities, Caterers; Private Transportation Corporate Outings Services 12 Cybersecurity Companies Cybersecurity

JULY 19 Comm RE Leases: Office, Retail & Industrial Commercial Real Estate 40 Under Forty 40 Under Forty Awards, 7/18 26 Colleges & Universities Education 2 Engineering Firms Engineering 9 Physician Groups; Diagnostic Imaging Centers Health Care Healthiest Employer Healthiest Employer Awards, 8/8 16 Software Dev. Cos; Web Development Cos. Technology Law Firms Law Review

AUGUST 23 30 Executive Recruiters; Staffing Firms; Executive Human Resources Compensation 6 Accounting Firms Banking & Finance 13 MBA Programs Education 20 Property & Casualty Insurers Insurance Fastest Growing & Fastest Growing & Innovative Innovative Companies Companies Awards, 9/18

SEPTEMBER 27 Architectural Firms Construction, Design & Architecture 4 Chief Security Officers; RI CIOs Technology/Cybersecurity STUFF Made in RI Book 11 Online Degrees/Programs Education Cybersecurity Summit, date TBD 18 Addiction Treatment Centers Mental Health Summit Recap OCTOBER 25 Providence Employers; RI Employers Workforce Development The Giving Guide 1 Chief Financial Officers Accounting Health Care Summit, 10/30 8 Commercial RE Brokerage Firms Commercial Real Estate Business Excellence; Business Excellence Awards, Summit Recap 11/7 15 Top Private Companies Law Review 22 Family Owned Businesses, Women Run Businesses Small Business

NOVEMBER 29 Stock Brokerage Firms; Wealth Managers Investments/Estate & Retirement Planning 6 Mortgage Bankers and Brokers Banking & Finance Diversity & Inclusion Diversity & Inclusion Summit Summit & Awards & Awards, date TBD 13 Urgent Care Centers; Clinics Health Care 20 Highway Projects Construction/Infrastructure Profiles of Success

DECEMBER 27 N/A Economic Outlook

www.pbn.com400 Westminster | BUSINESS Street, EXCELLENCESuite 600, Providence, AWARDS RI 02903 2018 | n401-273-2201 PROVIDENCE | PBN.com BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 17

EDITORIAL CALENDAR SUBJECT TO CHANGE UPDATED 11-1•18 EXCELLENCE AT A MIDSIZE COMPANY

A RICH, AND NOW PROSPEROUS HISTORY: From left, Tom Parrish, executive director; Meg Donnelly, cutter/draper; Curt Columbus, artistic director; and Amanda Downing Carney, costume shop director, review costumes for the upcoming production of “A Christmas Carol.” PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

gathering spaces,” he said. “In the 21st century, we need some ‘hangout’ spaces and a more flexible theater.” To that end, Trinity completed a master facilities plan, says Parrish, though Trinity must first assess the feasibility of a capital campaign to implement that plan. At its core, each year Trinity engages with more than 100,000 audi- ence members, thousands of students who participate in Project Discovery’s student matinee program, the Brown/ Trinity MFA students and its own staff of nearly 300 full-time, part-time TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY and seasonal employees. In recent years, Trinity’s expanded social justice initiatives have engaged Providence police officers in creative workshops, hosted a staged reading and a community discussion about immigration issues and built deeper Fiscally secure, Trinity connections to Rhode Island’s growing Hispanic community. TRAIN, Trinity Repertory Active Imagination Net- educates, stimulates work, says Columbus, offers sensory- friendly shows for individuals on the BY NANCY KIRSCH | Contributing Writer autism spectrum and with spectrum processing disorders. Trinity has been recognized for FOUNDED IN 1963 and housed in a former vaudeville space, Trinity Repertory these sustained investments in com- Company is transforming the ancient craft of theater as it begins to see the fruits munity engagement and in advanc- ing equity, diversity and inclusion. of a long climb toward financial security. “We’ve been [committed] to create In addition to producing seven mainstage productions annually, Trinity offers inclusive spaces and working toward a robust arts-education program for K-12 students, trains graduate theatrical- EDI on our staff and in our program- ming,” said Parrish, who aims to arts students in partnership with Brown University, and hosts community con- make Trinity a place where everyone versations on issues of race, gender and class, among others. feels welcome and respected. Challenges notwithstanding, the But if not for Trinity’s commitment to develop- enue and … on the lifetime value of the patron,” ebullient Columbus finds joy in his ing patron revenue, focusing on its strategic plan, said Tom Parrish, executive director, and a key work. “The kids from ‘A Christmas developing great works and building audiences, new leadership team member. “We’re investing Carol’ cast come in and are so en- Trinity’s long-term financial woes, which began more than we ever have on the stage. … We deliver thusiastic about being on stage. … before his arrival 13 years ago, might have led exciting and compelling work that reignites It’s watching kids in the audience to the theater’s demise, says Curt Columbus, the people’s imaginations.” for [Trinity’s gender-bending] ‘Pride enterprise’s artistic director. Building on these successes, including support and Prejudice’ and knowing that, for “We’ve been working tirelessly for [more than] from a Rhode Island Cultural Facilities bond to some of them, it will be a life-changing a decade to make strides toward financial stabil- implement several physical plant upgrades, Trin- experience,” he said. “Working with ity. Our new leadership team … has raised their ity recently created its first consolidated database Brown/Trinity MFA students, it’s so game in the last two years, and we’re seeing some for ticketing and fundraising that, says Parrish, exciting for me. … I’m surrounded great benefits from that,” he said. will help sustain its level of growth. by a great community of theater- The numbers reveal that is indeed the case: Columbus considers Trinity’s building, to makers.” n Since 2015, ticket revenue has grown 26 percent which the organization is 100 percent committed, and annual-fund income 23 percent. Trinity one of its great- reversed its decline in full-season subscriptions, est liabilities, yet broke box office records and restructured long- simultaneously a term debt. significant devel- ‘We’ve been working By eliminating its persistent $1 million struc- opment opportu- tural operating deficit in 2017, Trinity, with a $10 nity. tirelessly … to make strides million annual operating budget, generated posi- “We’re doing a tive operating cash flow for the first time in more lot of educational than a decade. Those efforts earned Trinity a 2017 and community toward financial stability.’ Initiative for Nonprofit Excellence Best Practice work. As we open CURT COLUMBUS, Award for Board/Staff Leadership from the Rhode our arms to more Island Foundation and Blue Cross & Blue Shield of members of the Trinity Repertory Company artistic director Rhode Island. community, we “The team … is focused on growing patron rev- don’t have enough

18 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com to Lifespan president and CEO CongratulationsDr. Timothy J. Babineau, recipient of the 2018 Corporate Citizenship Award.

Dr. Babineau is honored for leading Lifespan initiatives that foster health and wellness to benefit people in Rhode Island communities.

LS-Ad-PBN Award TJB.indd 1 10/17/18 10:49 AM OVERALL EXCELLENCE AT A SMALL COMPANY Blazing a trail out of poverty

BY NANCY KIRSCH | Contributing Writer

WITH NEARLY ONE-HALF OF THE U.S. population unable to tap $400 in savings for an

MONEY MATTERS: emergency, Capital Good Fund, From left, Roxana a Providence-based nonprofit, Mercado and Ellie Parada, Capital Good serves a vital need, offering Fund loan officers, and Andy Posner, modest personal loans to people founder and CEO, discuss strategies who can’t get help from a bank. for helping clients Such loans – $300 to $25,000 navigate debt and personal finance at – to individuals who can’t get the company’s office CAPITAL GOOD FUND in Providence. bank loans save people of mea- PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY ger means from disastrous ­decisions.

We’re putting our energy behind the community.

LISC is committed to building strong and healthy communities where individuals, businesses and families can thrive.

Since 1991, we have invested $373 million resulting in $1.6 billion in investment in Rhode Island.

www.riLISC.org nationalgridus.com

20 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com OVERALL EXCELLENCE AT A SMALL COMPANY Operating in Rhode Island, Mas- Its Financial & Health Coaching Nobel Peace Prize awardee for pio- small-dollar personal loans totaling sachusetts, Delaware and Florida program offers borrowers valuable neering the concepts of microcredit $5.6 million and graduated more – with Illinois on the near horizon advice and guidance on banking, and microfinance. than 1,450 families from its coach- – Capital Good Fund serves clients budgeting, credit, debt, savings and “These are not to [pay off] a ing program. who otherwise resort to getting health. credit card … [but] to become a In 2017, the organization tripled loans from payday lenders, pawn- “We’re viewed as the lender of citizen, buy a car to get to work its 2016 loan volume of $635,000 to shops, check cashers, etc., which last resort, but … we become the or keep your job, move into a new $2.1 million, with loan volume for collectively comprise a $141 billion lender of first choice, as they gradu- apartment or avoid eviction,” Pos- 2018 anticipated to grow by another predatory financial industry, says ate out of this space they’re in,” ner said. Calling the loans, which 50 percent. Andy Posner, founder and CEO. Posner said. have a 96 percent repayment rate, Capital Good Fund is working Capital Good Fund’s loans enable The U.S. Treasury, the Rhode “transformational,” Posner added, with a consultant on a comprehen- borrowers to build credit, save Island Foundation and other cor- “Filling a massive market need is sive customer-acquisition strategy, money, invest in their futures and porate foundations have donated very satisfying.” an essential component of the or- avoid being caught in predatory funds for Capital Good Fund’s The 9-year-old company is ganization’s forecast of operational lenders’ debt traps. operating expenses, something that growing exponentially. In Rhode self-sufficiency by 2023’s end. “Nationally, we’re the only is standard with nonprofits. Island alone, it financed 99 loans “We’re excited about this self- nonprofit offering these loans at eq- But it also borrows funds to lend for $286,000 in 2016, 353 loans for sufficiency plan. We’re closer to uitable interest rates at this scale, out to customers and repays them $590,000 in 2017 and 400 loans for being less dependent on philan- though some credit unions, [such with interest. Several banks and $620,000 through Sept. 30. Company­ thropic donations, which can be as] Navigant Credit Union, offer credit unions, including Bank New- wide through Sept. 30, Capital Good whimsical,”said Posner. n similar small-dollar loans in Rhode port, Centreville Bank, Navigant Fund has financed more than 3,000 Island,” said Posner. “Although the and Greenwood credit unions, as suggested interest rate cap [on such well as foundations and individu- loans] is 36 percent, our highest als, lend the company money, says ‘These [loans] are not to rate is 24 percent APR [with some Okby, who recently joined the non- loans having lower rates]. Payday profit after working as a banker. lenders typically charge around 300 Capital Good Fund issues more [pay off] a credit card … percent APR,” or annual percent- than 100 loans a month, says Pos- age rate. ner, who launched the nonprofit Capital Good Fund reports the after witnessing how many people [but] to become a citizen, borrowers’ loan repayments to were impacted by the 2008 financial credit agencies, which raises a crisis. Then a Brown University buy a car to get to work borrower’s FICO score by 75 points graduate student, Posner was also on average, says Wally Okby, empowered to act after reading vice president, investor relations. works by Muhammad Yunus, a or keep your job.’ ANDY POSNER, Capital Good Fund founder and CEO

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 21 EXCELLENCE AT A SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCY

Adoption R.I. securing stable homes, futures

BY MICHAEL HARDMAN | Contributing Writer

FOR 34 YEARS, Adoption Rhode Island has been focused on permanently placing children with families, but its services go beyond just that part of its mission. The nonprofit works in three areas: adoption and per- manency services; children and family support; and youth transition services. The organization’s goal is to promote and support the placement of children who are waiting for adoption, and to improve the well-being of foster and adopted children and their families. “No. 1, the focus has been on 2,000 children in and out of home getting the message out there to dif- placements and under the care of ferent people,” said Darlene Allen, the Department of Children, Youth, the CEO and executive director, and Families. who has been with the organiza- “We have people with a lot of tion since 1999. “A lot of people personal experience,” said Allen. didn’t know what we do. We did an “Almost everyone has had some analysis with stakeholders, and we personal experience, whether it heard a lot of misconceptions. We be through adoption or being an have been building awareness of adoption family or being a mentor. what we are.” This is personal and professional to As a business, Adoption Rhode them.” Island increased revenue by more With its increases in revenue, than 50 percent during the last five Adoption Rhode Island has been years, going from $1.4 million in able to expand investment, starting fiscal 2014 to $2.2 million in fiscal with the Wendy’s Wonderful Kids 2018. And the fiscal 2019 budget is program in 2015 and more recently $2.5 million. in its Child and Family Support Fifty-five percent of the nonprof- programming. And it has created it’s revenue comes from public/ the Youth Transition Services, government contracts, while the which works with youth who are COMFORT ZONE: From rest is from corporate, individual, “aging out” of the program and left, Nick, adopted in 2015, and Matt St. and foundation support, and finding themselves at risk. Germain are among the special fundraising­ events. The When children age out of the many families Adoption organization reports that only 10 system, they are at risk for an Rhode Island has ADOPTION RHODE ISLAND percent to 12 percent of its revenue increased rate of unemployment, helped. goes to administrative costs, with behavioral health symptomology, COURTESY ADOPTION the remaining almost 90 percent poor physical health, homeless- RHODE ISLAND/ MATT ST. GERMAIN going to services. ness, unintended pregnancy and Adoption Rhode Island employs trouble with the law, according to 27 people, while providing services Adoption Rhode Island. to approximately 1,500 to 1,800 “We spend a lot of effort getting individuals and families, reaching them through high school and into Rhode Island is using its resources The program was funded by at least 10,000 people across Rhode post-high school,” said Allen. “We and partnerships with stakeholders DCYF, and Adoption Rhode Island Island and the country. The organi- want to give them job opportunities to provide more services through says it is already seeing positive zation says that every day in Rhode to break the cycle of child welfare.” the Teen Focus program, which results in its first year. Island there are approximately To tackle this problem, Adoption directly served 54 youths who were Working with the Judith McSol- on track to exit the system without ey Fund for Children at the Rhode care and a high school diploma. It Island Foundation, Adoption Rhode is the first of its kind in the state. Island is launching the first Rhode ‘We want to give them job “Adoption Rhode Island was a Island chapter of the national foster key stakeholder in the development care alumni association. Using of, advocacy for, and passage of their experiences as being part of opportunities to break the Voluntary Extension Care Act the foster care system, the group is legislation that increased the age of expected to bring perspective and DCYF services from 18 years to 21 ideas to the organization. the cycle of child welfare.’ years of age and gives young adults “They have personally experi- DARLENE ALLEN, access to improve their transition enced this,” said Allen. “Hopefully, to independent adulthood,” said they will provide an invaluable Adoption Rhode Island CEO and executive director ­Allen. resource to us.” n

22 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com EXCELLENCE AT A NONPROFIT LISC fosters relationships to build communities

BY MICHAEL HARDMAN | Contributing Writer

JEANNE COLA SAYS SHE HAS THE BEST JOB in Rhode 98 percent reduction in calls after are aging and downsizing, they are LISC’s input. in the market for affordable hous- Island at a company that is the best-kept secret in the state. To achieve its goals, LISC says it ing in safe areas. The secret part is something the executive director has become a trusted partner with “A lot of people are one pay- local businesses and government check away [from having housing of Local Initiatives Support Corp. Rhode Island wants to over the years. It is committed to problems],” said Cola. “Housing change. A 27-year-old nonprofit, LISC is a financial inter- building strong neighborhoods and is so important to individuals and healthy communities to allow them families. This is really a high prior- mediary, directing investments to neighborhoods to help to thrive. ity across the state.” with developing affordable housing, improving families’ Cola says making sure housing With its experience, LISC’s incomes and wealth, and fostering healthy environments. is affordable should be a high prior- leadership hopes to continue to be ity for communities. While the one of the organizations working to “We look at how we can be of ments in nutritional access, build- state’s economy has slowly been on solve that problem. help,” said Cola. “In Rhode Island, ing a 172-plot community garden at the rise, there is a catch. As the real “There is no secret sauce,” said we work statewide across different Galego Court, renovating the com- estate market improves, there is Cola. “We want to bring everyone areas by building relationships.” munity park and farmers market, more pressure on vulnerable resi- together and accomplish the same LISC supports local businesses offering senior nutrition classes, dents to find housing. When people results.” n to revitalize commercial corridors, improving recreation areas, start- providing workforce develop- ing walking groups, and a walking ment and education, developing school bus. affordable housing solutions, and Some of the projects LISC has working to improve the health of been involved with include the new ‘We work statewide residents. WaterFire Arts complex and the Using its 2017 numbers, LISC Urban Greens Food Co-op, which is invested $24.5 million in real estate, expected to transform one Provi- across different areas by awarded $2.3 million in grants, dence neighborhood from a food provided 9,532 hours of Americorps desert to “a vibrant oasis.” It has service, and provided 2,077 hours of also redesigned child care facilities building relationships.’ technical assistance to 133 groups. to make them safer, and worked JEANNE COLA, As the organization has grown, with law enforcement to address Local Initiatives Support Corp. Rhode Island LISC has expanded its focus from crime hot spots. One of those areas, financing projects to using its ex- Aleppo Street in Providence, saw a executive director pertise to better the communities. “We want to look at all of it,” said Cola. “We want to make safe places and see reductions in crime.” LISC also looks at creating natural open spaces and learning spaces to benefit the communities. LISC had been involved in several projects recently that have drawn attention around the state. This year, the organization pro- vided nearly $13 million in grant funding, loans and a tax credit to Central Falls Health Station, which is expected to be a $15 million project. LISC also worked with the state’s congressional delegation to get an additional $1 million federal grant for the effort. When complet- ed, the project will aim to positively change the health outcome of the LOCAL INITIATIVES SUPPORT residents living there and serve as a role model for future projects. The organization also has man- CORP. RHODE ISLAND aged the Health Equity Zone in Pawtucket and Central Falls, two underserved areas, improving the residents’ lives in those areas. LISC says it coordinated nearly 40 partners, state agencies, municipal interests and resident advisers to launch the program, which is be- ing used by the state as a positive example of resolving a problem. HELPING HANDS: From left, Erin Cox, program officer; Cindy Larson, deputy director; Jeanne Cola, executive LISC says it created a 102-item director; Megan Ressler, program assistant; and Deanna Bruno, program assistant, at LISC’s Providence office. action plan, working with com- PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY munity partners to make improve-

www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 23 EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND LEARNING

ACTIVE LEARNING: From left, Sherry Lee L., fourth-grader at Veterans Elementary School; Mabel G., sixth-grader at Calcutt Middle School; Isabella R., seventh-grader at The Learning Community; Javier Centeno, co-founder, coach and director of soccer for Project GOAL; Carolina S., fifth-grader at The International Charter School; Gabriela N., fifth-grader at ICS; Christopher G., fifth-grader at ICS; and Julia M., fourth-grader at ICS. PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

honored to serve as a host site for Project GOAL for the past 12 years,” said Headmaster Matt Glenndining. “We’re proud to sup- port the program, and even proud- er to have enrolled some incredible students from Project GOAL at Moses Brown.” Similarly, at the Wheeler School in Providence, Allison Gaines PROJECT GOAL INC. Pell, head of school, assists Project GOAL in getting students to apply for its scholarships. The nonprofit then pays the entrance-exam fee. About 60 program kids have gone to private schools on full scholar- A careful balance of ships in that fashion, Shirzadi said. In an effort to increase female participation, Project GOAL is academics, athletics coordinating tutoring and training from women at Brown and Bryant BY SUSAN SHALHOUB | Contributing Writer universities. “This year we had the highest percentage of girls in THE PHRASE “HAVING MULTIPLE BALLS IN THE AIR” Thanks to their work and the program,” said Shirzadi, 33 networking, GOAL students play percent. can mean having many opportunities on the horizon. at halftime at Brown University Last year, Project GOAL’s Com- For Providence nonprofit Project GOAL Inc. (Greater Op- soccer games. Rhode Island College munity Outreach program began. master’s degree candidates tutor It welcomes volunteers into the portunities for Athletes to Learn), soccer balls represent a Project GOAL students. classrooms or on the fields as men- portal to academic achievement and personal excellence. Since Project GOAL kids are tors. It also exposes students to cul- often the first generation in their tural and career offerings, such as Project GOAL gives children a free. families to consider higher educa- a collaboration with Rhode Island chance, many for the first time, to “There were deficiencies in tion, said Shirzadi, Bank of Ameri- Builders Association at the Rhode be on soccer fields or in tutoring after-school programming, chal- ca and BankNewport run financial Island Home show last spring. sessions, exploring colleges and lenges with fees and transporta- college-planning workshops for Ninety-six percent of Project career fields, and more, said Darius tion,” Shirzadi said. “It was always their parents. GOAL members graduate high Shirzadi, Project GOAL co-founder educational programming first and Adidas just held a soccer clinic school, and 90 percent go to college. and executive director. then developed from that.” for program participants with the Shirzadi said past participants, In Project GOAL, students Project GOAL’s founders New England Revolution’s Andrew now adults, come back, visit and study during after-school hours to include Shirzadi, Peter Wheaton Farrell at Providence’s Moses kick a soccer ball around. “There’s earn soccer time. Students in the and Javier Centeno. The program Brown School, during which Proj- a big sense of community in the program meet twice a week for is strengthened by partnerships ect GOAL athletes got cleats and organization. To see these kids three-hour sessions, including 90 they’ve forged, connecting kids new soccer balls. come back? It’s very nice for ev- minutes of classroom time, focused with their community. “Moses Brown School has been erybody.” n on goal setting and group interac- Shirzadi, a former soccer coach, tion. Students working toward is the former director of Latino and their academic goals and making Cape Verdean Community Affairs responsible decisions are rewarded with the New England Revolution. ‘It was always with 90 minutes of soccer training He is now a senior global markets and teamwork instruction right manager at Cooley Group in Paw- after the class. tucket. educational Project GOAL has spent 14 Wheaton is chairman and CEO years connecting more than 1,500 of CORE Business Technologies in disadvantaged Rhode Island middle East Providence. programming first schoolers with academic enrich- Centeno, soccer director for ment through soccer. Soccer has Project GOAL and 2018 Boys Coach been a vehicle for life lessons on of the Year with Soccer Rhode Is- and then goals, responsibility, achievement land, played All-New England and and collaboration that carry into All-America soccer at Community developed from that.’ the classroom, setting kids up for College of Rhode Island. He is res- DARIUS SHIRZADI, success. toration director at Calcutt Middle For kids who qualify, it’s all School in Central Falls. Project GOAL Inc. co-founder and executive director

24 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com EXCELLENCE IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

A HEALTHY EDUCATION: William M. Davies Jr. Career and Technical High School seniors in the health careers program, front, from left, Claudia Tomczyk, Cortny experiences they need for success Botelho, and back, from left, increases as well. Individuals with Emily-Rose Furtado and Destiny industry expertise provide a per- Torres, learn the technical skills required in many parts of the spective to students and can also health care industry. help students explore and connect PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO with career opportunities, said Susan Votto, supervisor of career and technical education. At Davies, all career and techni- cal programs have advisory boards that consist of industry partners contributing to and supporting cur- riculum development, equipment and resources, industry trends and developments, community engage- ment, administrative support, program advocacy, and showcase venues such as career fairs, she said. And due to the practice of partnering with industry advisory boards, the school’s programs have built-in partners and mentors, who serve not only as advisers but WILLIAM M. DAVIES JR. CAREER also contest judges, presentation audience members and work-based learning opportunities, Votto said. AND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL “By collaborating with our industry partners, we are able to address, train and provide the necessary technical skills that Education tailored to the align to meet the needs of our industry partners. Technical skills are applied, practiced and even needs of R.I.’s economy perfected at times in real-world, industry-related situations through BY JAIME LOWE | Contributing Writer our work-based learning program,” she said. STUDENTS ATTENDING William M. Davies Jr. The Patriots Dining Room in the Future goals for Davies include Career & Technical High School receive more than a school serves lunch on Thursdays the increased growth of its work- and Fridays made by hospitality- force-development curriculum, comprehensive high school education. They get a head careers students. Automotive- which has already grown from 50 to start on a career. careers students receive cars from 80 instructional hours. The school a police station to work on. The also looks forward to continuing to Located in Lincoln, Davies opened in 1971 and serves school’s partnership with CVS al- make the Rhode Island community approximately 906 students, grades 9-12, and is open lows students firsthand experience aware of the benefits of a technical in pharmacies. education and make sure that it to high schoolers from across the state, although most “We have a mock pharmacy in continues to keep its business part- of its students are from Central Falls, Lincoln, North health careers where they are able nerships strong, Adele said. to actually learn the skills that “We’d like to continue to add to Providence, Pawtucket and Smithfield. It is state- any CVS technician would have to [partnerships] so we have the abil- operated but governed by an independent, business-led know. It looks just like a real phar- ity to send our students out into a macy,” Adele said. workforce training in not only any board of ­trustees. As interest in career technical possible program our student is When finished, Davies gradu- versity’s Warren Alpert Medical education increases, the need for interested in but also where there ates have received training in one School, CVS Pharmacy, General experts qualified to help ensure is a need for that in Rhode Island,” of nine technical areas – automo- Dynamics Electric Boat, Tiffany students gain the real-world Adele added. n tive, biomanufacturing, cosme- & Co., Rhode Island Hospital and tology, electrical and renewable WaterFire Providence. energy, graphics and interactive “Davies has benefited in work- media, health careers, hospitality ing with and building solid in- ‘Many of our partners have careers, machine technology, and dustry partners,” said Jax Adele, pre-engineering technology. The marketing and communications comprehensive, work-based learn- specialist at the school. “Many of been extremely impressed ing program caters its design to the our partners have been extremely needs of the state’s economy. impressed with the technical skills The school has its own Office and 21st-century workforce readi- with the technical skills … of Workforce Development, which ness skills that are being taught in focuses entirely on partnering with our programs. Davies understands businesses throughout Rhode Is- the needs of the workforce and being taught in our programs.’ land, many of which hire students aligns our instruction to meet those JAX ADELE, after graduation. Those partners needs.” William M. Davies Jr. Career and Technical High School include Amica Mutual Insurance Davies offers many hands-on Co., AstroNova Inc., Brown Uni- opportunities within its programs. marketing and communications specialist

www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 25 EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION IN PUBLIC COMPANIES (ranked by total fiscal year 2016 compensation)

CLOSER LOOK 2017 Executive Non-equity rank Company Salary Title incentive plan 2016 Total comp. Bonus comp. Just missed Other 2015 Total comp. Stock awards Change in Walter Uihlein compensation 1 Acushnet Holdings Option awards pension value and the list: 2016: 10 Corp. deferred comp. Change in compensation 2016 co. earnings President and CEO $19,540,877 $1,086,000 Change in earnings $5,427,984 $7,500,000 $9,491,096 $116,230 $1,331,708 1 2 Larry J. Merlo NA $15,843 260% $49,515,000 Deborah M. Thomas, 2016: 1 President and CEOCVS Health Corp. $18,359,377 $1,630,000 1,091% Hasbro Inc. $28,943,054 NA $3,999,931 Total compensation: $7,882,000 3 Scott C. Donnelly $847,456 $3,999,990 NA -37% $2,962,256 2016: 2 Chairman, president Textronand CEO Inc. $5,317,000,000 $12,672,171 $1,146,500 2% $12,392,028 NA $6,056,207 $1,619,000 4 Mark C. Trudeau $83,236 $2,464,511 2 $1,302,717 2% 2016: 4 President and CEO Mallinckrodt PLC $962,000,000 Hugh M. O’Neil, $12,561,741 $1,038,461 38% Mallinckrodt PLC $9,728,506 NA $5,876,436 $1,587,500 Total compensation: 5 Brian Goldner $159,340 $3,900,004 NA 29% 2016: 3 Chairman and CEOHasbro Inc. $643,700,000 $2,788,481 $10,542,242 $1,300,000 98% $10,285,987 NA $2,600,235 6 Bruce Van Saun $450,687 $2,162,091 $3,860,000 Group Inc. Citizens Financial $169,229 2% $551,380,000 3 2016: 5 Gary M. Phillips, Chairman and CEO $9,239,524 $1,487,000 22% $7,996,962 NA $5,478,086 Mallinckrodt PLC Jonathan C. Roberts $260,538 NA $2,013,900 Total compensation: 7 CVS Health Corp. NA 16% 2016: 6 Executive vice president and president, $1,045,000,000 $2,782,886 CVS Caremark $8,631,107 $950,000 24% $7,740,549 NA $2,249,961 $274,147 $2,907,000 8 Martha Sullivan $2,249,999 NA 12% $5,317,000,000 2016: 11 President and CEOSensata Technologies $5,783,116 $841,256 2% Re-ranked $5,384,784 NA $2,502,518 $935,000 by salary: 9 David M. Denton $55,275 $1,347,512 2016: 7 Executive vice presidentCVS andHealth chief Corp. $101,555 7% $262,434,000 financial officer $5,548,996 $850,000 -25% $6,960,581 NA $999,983 1 Helena B. Foulkes $319,026 $999,987 $2,380,000 Larry J. Merlo, 10 NA 2016: 8 Executive vice presidentCVS and Health president, Corp. -20% $5,317,000,000 CVS Health Corp. CVS Pharmacy 2% $5,162,183 $950,000 Salary: $1,630,000 $6,065,328 NA $999,983 11 Thomas M. Moriarty $210,213 $999,987 $2,002,000 2016: 9 Executive vice president,CVS chief Health health Corp. NA -15% $5,317,000,000 strategy officer and general counsel $4,950,740 $750,000 2% 2 $5,924,393 NA $999,983 Bruce Van Saun, 12 Frank T. Connor $174,770 $999,987 $2,026,000 Citizens Financial Executive vice presidentTextron and Inc. chief NA -16% $5,317,000,000 2016: 12 Group Inc. financial officer $4,728,559 $940,385 2% $4,712,691 NA $1,744,836 Salary: $1,487,000 William Burke $68,296 $709,857 $809,000 13 Acushnet Holdings Corp. 2016: NL Executive vice president, chief financial $456,185 0% $962,000,000 officer and treasurer $4,684,630 $482,000 38% 3 $1,260,524 NA $3,217,320 Brian Goldner, $535,047 14 Steven L. Spinner $68,499 NA Hasbro Inc. 2016: 14 Foods Inc. United Natural $381,764 272% $49,515,000 President and CEO $4,639,845 $889,346 1,091% Salary: $1,300,000 $3,958,168 NA $3,647,182 Joseph Nauman $103,317 NA NA 15 Corp. Acushnet Holdings NA 17% $130,155,000 LIST RESEARCHED BY 2016: NL Executive vice president, chief legal and 3% Nicole Dotzenrod administrative officer $4,466,264 $463,426 NA NA $3,217,320 NEED A COPY? $52,577 $530,584 James Connor NA To purchase a copy of this 16 $202,377 NA $49,515,000 Corp. Acushnet Holdings list, call (401) 273-2201 or 2016: NL 1,091% President, FootJoy $4,105,462 $502,000 visit pbn.com/lists.html for more information. $1,389,272 NA $2,573,856 $61,755 NA $511,881 17 David Maher WANT TO JOIN? 2016: NL Acushnet Holdings Corp. $455,970 196% $49,515,000 Chief operating officer For more information about $4,093,244 1,091% $433,385 participating in PBN’s Top NA NA $3,086,928 Lists, or to make additions or Jeffrey Cote $454,684 18 $22,186 NA corrections, call (401) 680- President, sensingSensata solutions Technologies and chief $96,061 NA 2016: NL $49,515,000 4838 or write to research@ operating officer $4,084,121 $557,233 1,091% pbn.com. $2,434,545 NA $975,052 Matthew K. Harbaugh $29,123 $2,025,004 $497,709 19 PLC Mallinckrodt NA 68% $262,434,000 2016: 18 Senior vice president and chief financial -25% officer $3,967,650 $581,154 $2,699,476 NA $1,661,817 $67,276 $557,400 Steven Beringhause $1,100,003 NA 47% $643,700,000 20 Technologies Sensata 98% 2016: NL Executive vice president, performance sensing and chief technology officer $3,932,501 $456,500 $1,754,921 NA $650,048 $542,503 $1,850,011 $410,626 21 John Frascotti $22,813 124% $262,434,000 2016: 17 President Hasbro Inc. -25% $3,568,465 $772,308 $2,927,941 NA $1,170,180 Wiebe Tinga $159,508 $357,583 $1,100,000 22 Hasbro Inc. 2016: NL Executive vice president and chief $8,886 22% $551,380,000 commercial officer $3,204,048 $592,787 22% $2,490,720 $0 $850,472 94 $118,754 $332,351 $925,000 | JANUARY 2018 $384,684 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS 29% $551,380,000 22% n BOOK OF LISTS | www.pbn.com

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 27 EXCELLENCE AT A WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS

DILIGENT DUO: From left, sisters Gail Almeida Parella and Lisa Almeida Sienkiewicz in their store, Gil’s Appliances in Bristol. The two have worked to modernize the store and make it an integral part of the community. PBN PHOTO/KATE WHITNEY LUCEY

chefs and ingredients and “Lunch & Learn” demonstrations for de- signers and builders. “The emphasis on all things local is part of a broader communi- ty-engagement effort that aims to give back to the community while creating a buzz that keeps Gil’s GIL’S APPLIANCES relevant for new generations of customers,” said Ferreira. Parella and Sienkiewicz’s extensive work in the community has not gone unnoticed. Recent awards and recognition include an Excellence in Business Award for Women-Owned Business in 2017 by the Newport County Chamber of Commerce and by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Rhode Sister-led family business Island office as the Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year. They were also recognized connects to community by the Women’s Resource Center of Rhode Island as “Wild Women” in 2018 for being inspiring role BY JAIME LOWE | Contributing Writer models in the business world in Rhode Island. SISTERS GAIL ALMEIDA PARELLA and Lisa Almeida a family business that has been Validating its approach, in the around forever but also not want- past two years, Gil’s Appliances Sienkiewicz take pride in the fact that their Bristol store, ing to get stuck there,” said Fer- has posted revenue growth of 15 Gil’s Appliances, is a family-owned business. reira, referring to the company’s percent. shift to the digital age. In 2017, Looking toward the future, the The store, which carries all major home-appliance they expanded and renovated the sisters’ goals include continuing to brands, as well as luxury brands, started as an old-fash- Bristol location, adding a work- stay true to core family and com- ing demonstration kitchen and a munity values while remaining ioned record store in 1961, launched by Gil and Sarah larger showroom, which is now competitive in a changing retail Almeida on Wood Street in Bristol. The family lived up- home to the new “Gil Loves Local” space. stairs from the store, and their two daughters, Parella and initiative. “Community involvement is “Gil Loves Local” began in 2018 what sets small businesses apart Sienkiewicz, grew up in the store, which eventually shift- as an effort to support and pro- these days. You have to have a rea- ed its focus from music to television and appliances. Not mote local businesses by show- son why you’re unique, why [the casing chefs, artisans and farms customer] is going to choose you, only did they learn from their parents about business and from around the state. Planned in as opposed to going online or going community, they watched their grandparents run a small collaboration with Edible Rhody somewhere and having a less- magazine, it features events in personal experience. … The sisters grocery store nearby in town. the new demonstration kitchen in really believe in that philosophy. “Gil’s is unique in that it is once raised them. Parella’s hus- Bristol. Additional events include They just have such a great story,” now both women- and family-run. band works at the store as well. seasonal cooking classes with local said Ferreira. n Their mom was involved in the The sisters remain dedicated to store, and their grandmother was reinvestment, retail growth and at the grocery store, so they had expansion. In 2016, they opened a some strong entrepreneurial role second retail showroom on Aquid- models in the family,” said Mar- neck Avenue in Middletown. The ‘You have to have a keting and Community Engage- location made it more accessible ment Director Lisa Ferreira. for its South County customers. In 1976, Gil’s moved to its cur- That year also brought about the reason why … [the customer] rent Bristol location on Metacom rebranding of Gil’s to fit in with Avenue. Parella and Sienkiewicz the digital era, with a new logo and is going to choose you.’ graduated from high school in 1983 redesigned website, which gave and 1987, respectively. In 1995, them a stronger presence on social LISA FERREIRA, they took over the business. They media channels. Gil’s Appliances marketing and have raised their families inside “It was a balance of not wanting community engagement director the world of Gil’s, as their parents to lose what is wonderful about

28 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

FOCUSED ON CUSTOMER SUCCESS: From left, Daniel Mercado, digital printing tech, and Renaud Megard, CEO, consult on a printing job in the design studio at Namplates For Industry Corp. in New Bedford. PBN PHOTO/RUPERT WHITELEY

“We’re here to make customers successful. It’s not about selling them more products. It’s about selling them solutions to sell more of their products.” In leading the three companies, Megard is more directly involved as opposed to delegating, as was common in his work for larger corporations. The benefit of this is RENAUD MEGARD quicker decisions. In the corporate world, he said, PRESIDENT & CEO, it could take months to make a decision. There were layers of leadership to wade through, and NAMEPLATES FOR INDUSTRY CORP. the process could lead to missed opportunities. Now, he and his team can make a decision in a matter of hours, which is neces- sary in today’s marketplace. They Career shifts lead to can also see quicker results. NFI revenue was just over $5 million when Megard became results and satisfaction owner in 2015. Modest growth began, with the Design Mark acquisition giving it a boost. This BY SUSAN SHALHOUB | Contributing Writer year, anticipated NFI revenue is $15 million. RENAUD MEGARD IS SKILLED at recognizing opportuni- specializes in digital printing – in NFI now offers new kinds of 2017 and Flexible Pack – which solutions for its clients. Megard ty and making it grow. makes flexible pouches and plastic added a design studio and invested After earning his undergraduate degree in his home sleeves – earlier this year. in new printing processes for plas- Now company growth is or- tics, for example. But all the new country of France, he was working for chemical giant ganic, systemized and streamlined offerings and technology don’t BASF Corp. in New Jersey when the company offered to since Megard put customer-rela- mean much if there are workplace tionship management software accidents. sponsor further education, which led to him earning a system HubSpot in place. There Safety is a large focus at NFI master’s degree from New York University’s Stern School is a structure now, with the three and its sister companies. Protec- of Business in 2008. companies sharing divisions such tive eyewear, gloves and footwear as accounting, finance and manu- are required. A safety-guard team Once back on the job, he found time with his family, the company facturing to improve productivity, was established, with no-injury himself traveling a lot. “I had purchase was also a chance to “but it has to be with the customer days quickly racking up at the 54 plants around the world” to get more directly involved in a experience in mind,” he said. facilities. oversee, he said. “I was on planes smaller organization. A shared vision between teams Combined, the three compa- traveling 85 percent of the time.” NFI started out as a screen- and clients is also part of Megard’s nies have 128 employees. Megard In 2009, Megard left BASF and printing company and now offers leadership style. knows all their names. began working for global supply- custom digital and flexographic “We are not saying ‘products,’ “I am very particular about chain company Cabot Corp. printing, producing products that we say ‘solutions,’ ” he said. that,” he said. n When it came time for his oldest include custom faceplates, bar- daughter to go to college, he real- code stickers and decals. Medical, ized he didn’t really know her. He manufacturing and transporta- also realized he had three younger tion are some of the industries it children who would be off on their serves. Megard said the company’s ‘It’s not about selling own before he knew it. He needed ability to print on plastic sets it to make a change. apart. That is when he saw an oppor- The company was making a [customers] more products. tunity to buy a smaller company. profit when he acquired it, but So, Megard left his position at it hadn’t seen much growth. The Cabot and bought Nameplates For majority of customers were repeat It’s about selling them Industry Corp. in New Bedford business. Megard set out to change almost four years ago. that, giving NFI more exposure “Priority was family,” he said. and resources via acquisitions. solutions.’ “What a great change.” He bought Massachusetts RENAUD MEGARD, In addition to giving him more companies Design Mark – which Nameplates for Industry Corp. CEO

www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 29 EXCELLENCE AT A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS

OCEAN STATE JOB LOT

FAMILY MEETING: Marc Perlman, left, speaks during a recent Ocean State Job Lot owners meeting at the company’s North Kingstown headquarters. Also attending are, from left, John Conforti, Richard Portno, Alan Perlman and Steve Aronow. PBN PHOTO/DAVE HANSEN

OSJL has free lunch for its 800 distribution-center employees each Friday, a tradition that start- ed when the company was much, much smaller, said Conforti. The company practices diversity in hir- ing, with center employees hailing from multiple countries and speak- ing multiple languages. “The best decisions are made Family connections build with a diversity of opinion and ex- perience,” said Conforti. “That’s Marc’s style of problem-solving: foundation for success Get all key stakeholders together and talk it through.” BY SUSAN SHALHOUB | Contributing Writer Now 5,000-employees strong, OSJL sales have risen from $539 WITH AN OFFICE IN CHINA and 133 stores in New pany,” he said. “It does seem to be a million in 2013 to $685 million to- culture where people want to stay.” day. In the past five years, it has England, it may be difficult to remember that close- “From can openers to kayaks,” opened more than 20 stores. The out retailer Ocean State Job Lot is, at its core, a family is how the North Kingstown-based company’s recent Quonset distri- business. company describes its assortment bution-center expansion created of products. 100 jobs. Brothers Marc and Alan Perlman founded the store in OSJL has no particular custom- Conforti said that CEO Marc 1977 with their friend, Roy Dubs. Along with principal er demographic, just products that Perlman looks at all purchase or- represent great values. As their ders, generating knowledge that owner Steve Aronow, Chief Financial Officer John packaging has changed, they’ve allows the company to quickly take Conforti and Vice President of Operations Richard been discontinued, or are over- risks or move on time-sensitive op- stocked, ranging from nonrefrig- portunities if it benefits customers. Portno, the Perlman brothers still run the company erated foods to health and beauty Community giving, especially today. Sixteen members of the Perlman, Aronow, aids to hardware and other goods. for hunger causes, helps OSJL Company buyers travel the globe team members to see the commu- Conforti and Portno families work or have worked in search of deals on items to help nity around them as family as well. for the company in areas such as legal, information its customers stretch their dollars. The company’s charitable foun- At the same time, its leaders dation absorbs all administrative technology, buying, operations and human resources. work hard to ensure the company costs. Donations made at the reg- “All the kids are given a choice larly recognizes people who have maintains a balance between grow- ister go directly to hunger relief, on whether or not they want to been with the business for 30 and 35 ing, staying successful and keeping Conforti said. participate,” said Paul Conforti, years, he said – and there are doz- a family-type culture that differen- OSJL has been known to buy chief marketing officer and John ens, adding to close-knit bonds. “It tiates it from other stores in terms refrigerated food it doesn’t carry Conforti’s nephew. He said there weaves its way through the com- of employee workplace experience. in its stores, such as frozen clam are no built-in expectations to join strips, at a fraction of the price and the family business. Some relatives flip them to a food bank that can have worked in other places and put them to good use. come back to OSJL. This summer, OSJL teamed up “Alan has said that it’s a special ‘It’s a special aspect with partners for its Dog Days of aspect of the business, being able to Summer Rhode Island Grill-Out, work with family,” said Paul Con- of the business, with OSJL volunteers serving forti. “But over the years, with a lot 25,000 hot dogs at shelters and other of the members of our team, it kind hunger-relief groups, with ketchup of feels that way as well. They are being able to work with family.’ and mustard and all the extras. long-term relationships built on PAUL CONFORTI, “Our associates want to work for trust and shared experience.” a company that makes the world a Its company newsletter regu- Ocean State Job Lot chief marketing officer better place,” said Conforti. n

30 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com ECONOMICTRENDS THE R.I. ECONOMY

The final 2018 PBN Issue: December 28, 2018

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Several sectors will be included in the overview including: • Financial Services • Real Estate & Development • Health Care • Workforce Development & Education • Technology & Manufacturing Deadline: December 19, 2018

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www.pbn.com | BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 n PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS | NOVEMBER 2018 | 31 Cox Business congratulates all the recipients ofof the 20172018 ProvidenceProvidence BusinessBusiness News’News’ BusinessBusiness Excellence Awards.

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32 | NOVEMBER 2018 | PROVIDENCE BUSINESS NEWS n BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2018 | www.pbn.com