Professional Title

Chief Strategy Officer at Vertex Energy, Inc.

What’s one thing you’re learning right now — professionally or personally?

Reorganization through Chapter 11.

In your view, what makes a truly effective board member?

Isolate from the moment, understand the current dynamics and keep your head up looking at the long term strategy without being prisoner of the moment.
 

Beach, mountains, city, or countryside — what’s your ideal getaway?

Countryside.

What’s a small daily habit that makes a big difference for you?

Just do nothing. Get up, work out, enjoy a nice breakfast and go out for a walk. Take the daily calls, take care of business and wrap up the day over a nice BBQ and a bottle of Rioja wine.

What’s a book every board member should read?

I don't have an opinion on this. I think life is a much better teacher than the library. A read a lot and I found incredible joy in reading. It is just that I am a strong believer that you are not going to learn any meaningful lessons in life from a book. Nothing compares to true experience.
 

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

Tell always the truth so you don't have to remember what you said.

In your experience, what differentiates great board chairs?

No emotions and no personal relationship. When emotions and personal relations get into the equation, it is the perfect recipe for disaster.
 

If you had an extra free hour every day, how would you spend it?

Teaching or mentoring.

What’s the most unforgettable trip or experience you’ve ever had?
Alaska.