Co-Founder
Greenridge Naturals
Elk Grove Village, IL
Q. Can you tell us a bit about your upbringing and how it has shaped you?
Growing up in the early 1980s in Poland, basic essentials were luxuries. Things like fruit, meat and dairy were difficult to come by as everything was strictly rationed. Having grown up in that era, I understand what it means to live in poverty, and the value of hard work. It’s my upbringing that has built my strong work ethic, and why I work so hard every day, taking no opportunity for granted.
Q. What were some of the pivotal moments in your early life that led you to where you are today?
When I immigrated to the U.S. when I was 9, we had absolutely no money, so we made it work anyway we could. Seeing how my parents struggled throughout their lives, early on I understood that I have to outwork everyone, and I do that every day.
Q. How has your career evolved over the years?
Running one business is hard. Running multiple businesses is even harder. I wear many hats throughout the day, and I love every second of it. As my company grows, expands and evolves, I learn that great companies are not built by a single individual, but by a team of great people. One of my top priorities is building out the best team possible at Greenridge.
“You’re entitled to nothing. Want it? Earn it! I took that to heart early on in my life, and I earn it every single day. Successful people never worry about what others are doing, and that is so true.”
Q. What is the best advice you ever received and why?
You’re entitled to nothing. Want it? Earn it! I took that to heart early on in my life, and I earn it every single day. Successful people never worry about what others are doing, and that is so true. We have incredible products, made with simple ingredients, the old-school way that our parents and grandparents used to make them, and we put a lot of heart into making them and putting them out into the world.
Q. How do you balance your work and personal life?
Balancing personal life and work life is tricky, we are glued to our phones day in and day out. I have not figured that one out yet.
Q. What deli retail trends have impacted the industry most over the last year?
Convenience is what I hear from our customers every day, simple snacking with clean ingredients is on top of our customers’ minds, which is why we are expanding our natural deli meat offerings to include easy on-the-go pre-sliced packs, as well as launching smaller format snack sticks in 1-ounce packs in a variety of flavors.
Q. What book, movie, or event has impacted you personally or professionally?
I have recently become a dad to a 2-year-old daughter and a 5-month-old son. Sleep is hard to come by, but there’s nothing like being a father.
Q. What hobbies do you enjoy outside of work?
I enjoy boating and fishing, and I have recently taken up golfing. But most importantly, spending time with my family.
