PPB October 2018

His best boss The smart answer here is to say my current one—so it’s my current boss. I’ve learned the perfect balance of direction, with the liberties to orchestrate your plans, is the formula to drive success in achieving any projects or goals. A boss that can provide that balance is great! What managing others has taught him about himself I would have to say I’ve learned that achieving goals by being part of the team is much more rewarding. I believe any good boss knows their role. They understand that they are truly working for their team, as part of a team, versus the team working for the boss. There’s nothing more rewarding than assisting a team and individuals to reach their goals and potential. His best advice for other bosses I believe there are a few basic, but very important traits for great bosses. Try and lead by example when it comes to work ethic, always remember to show appreciation for their efforts, and give everyone the respect and consideration they deserve. We’re all in it together. TOMAS COHAN Regional Vice President HALO Branded Solutions Direct Reports: 130 Years Managing Others: 15 A s the Denver-based regional vice president for Sterling, Illinois- based HALO Branded Solutions, Tomas Cohan manages 130 direct reports across multiple states. But despite the logistics, Cohan is renowned for putting his team’s needs first. “Tomas always thinks ‘people first,’” says Wayne Heus, one of Cohan’s of eight nominators. “He has built personal relationships with everyone in our region and goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels a part of the team.” Nominator Sandy Routzon says, “Tomas is there whenever I need him. He finds help when I need it, celebrates my successes and helps me reach level after level of success.” Lisa Ekdahl, who has reported to him for almost three years, says he has helped her close deals, voluntarily made multiple visits to clients in remote locations, coached her on how she does business (which played a huge part in tripling her business) and helped her strategize on pricing, products and various other things for clients. “Tomas is an incredible mentor,” says Ekdahl. “He truly cares about everyone, wants to see everyone succeed and will help in any way he can. Going above and beyond is an understatement.” Not only does Cohanmake a difference to the people at HALO, he’s also improving the lives of those in Juarez, Mexico. Nominator Janette Petesch once traveled with himand three others from the Denver office to build a home for a family in need in the border town. “We all packed our cars with things they have a hard time getting there and drove down. He has done this many times with different members of his team.” Nominator Stacy Nelson joined the trip one year. “It is a rewarding way of life that he lives, and he encourages all of us to participate,” she says. Caring about others is ingrained in Cohan’s character. For five years early in his career, he was a Denver firefighter. About halfway into it, he found time to start up distributor Logos Your Way. The company was acquired by HALO in 2011. Cohan was also nominated for this year’s honor by Melanie Levans, April Rider and David Ekdahl. What’s Cool About Tomas Tomas can laugh with you and laugh about himself, but he never ever laughs at you. He always makes the other person feel good. He exemplifies a Blake Bozeman, MAS, (center, left in blue shirt) enjoys spending time with his entire team. Best Bosses Of 2018 | FEATURE | OCTOBER 2018 | 31