PPB October 2019

Gary Mosely Owner Kati Sportcap & Bag Houston, Texas Years managing others: 35 Gary’s insights on his best bosses: This has pretty much been my only job, so my best boss would be my mentor at this company, Lane Kalmin. I also cannot forget my best boss ever, my father. They both taught me to always get up and go to work and take care of business like you would want someone to take care of your business. His advice for managing others: Listen to your employees and treat them as you would want to be treated. Always remember that your company is only as good as the people who work for you. Danny Spier President Kati Sportcap & Bag Houston, Texas Years managing others: 14 Danny’s insights on his best boss: Bobby Epstein, who was my boss when I was in the fixed income/bond business, taught me how to expect employees to be productive and be a good supervisor at the same time. His advice for managing others: Unlike sports, everyone in the workplace can be a winner. Kati is where management, employees and customers come together to reach a common goal where we can all win. Why they were nominated: “One great thing about my bosses’ management style is they don’t micromanage,” says nominator Laurie Gerber, who’s been with the company for five years. “I truly can’t say enough great things about these guys I call bosses. The way they go above and beyond for all their employees is truly unheard of. I really believe they are the reason this company is so successful. We are not just co-workers we are family.” Nominator and direct report Laurie Gerber with her bosses, from left, Danny Spier and Gary Mosely. 18 Eric Nelsen Expert Swagologist BrandVia Pacific Grove, California Years managing others: 30 Why he was nominated: “He lets me take the reins on projects and allows me to find my own solution,” says his nominator Susan Carmen, who’s reported to Nelsen for four years. “However, time and time again he will chime in, ‘Don’t forget to use me as a resource,’ or, ‘Remember, if you hit a problem, I am here.’ He is true to his word. He gives the entire team the freedom to work things out on their own but also acts as our safety net.” Eric’s insights on his best boss: Jim Childers [president of BrandVia] is a great leader, consistent and compassionate and he always “seeks to understand.” His advice for managing others: Treat your teamwith respect, be polite, ask— don’t tell (that applies to how we treat our suppliers, too). Be impeccable with your word, do what you say you are going to do (this applies to me and them), don’t take things personally, don’t make assumptions, always do your best. Always be learning (I ask them frequently “What did you learn today?”) and teach, don’t preach. My teammembers are empowered to make decisions. I often answer their questions with a question: “What would you do if I wasn’t here?” Pick up the phone and call and remember, “Their perception is their reality.” Eric Nelsen, second from left, with team members Michael Alegria, Jessica Garcia, Jennifer Masters and Susan Carman at BrandVia’s headquarters. | OCTOBER 2019 | 35 Best Bosses Of 2019 | FEATURE