Congratulations to Ron Lutwiller senior vice president of operations on his promotion to president of Bonitz!
Ron will succeed Pete Larmore, who will retire later this year. Pete has made an incredible contribution to the success of Bonitz over more than three decades and we wish him the best on his new journey. Bonitz board member and the daughter of Bonitz founder Bill Rogers, Louise Slater stated, "Ron Lutwiller was best suited to lead Bonitz thanks to his understanding of Bonitz and its business, his exceptional skill set, and his excellent relationship with the members of the Bonitz team."
We are excited to see Ron take the company to even higher levels of success in the years ahead.
The Regional Sales Directors will report directly to Dan Tilley, Senior Vice President of Sales. “This is the first of many steps towards the intentional re-alignment of our organization,” says Tilley. “This change demonstrates our commitment to putting people in positions that align with their purpose and passion, which will ultimately better serve our customers and present a scalable model for growth.”
Before this promotion, Tanya Jones served as Director of Sales in Greenville, SC. Over the past seven (7) years, she has shown her dedication to Bonitz, helping to make Greenville one of the leading operations in the company. Jones will now direct the sales teams in Greenville, Columbia, Charleston, and Augusta.
Seth Koplin was previously serving as Director of Operations in Nashville, TN. He has been with the company for over four (4) years and in his time has made a significant impact on the Nashville operations during his tenure. Koplin will now be directing the sales teams in Nashville, Knoxville, Fort Myers, and New Orleans.
William Huckaby was serving as Director of Operations in Winston Salem, NC. Huckaby will be celebrating his 15-year anniversary with Bonitz in October. His leadership has helped the Winston Salem branch grow into the successful team that it is today. He will now be directing the sales teams in Winston Salem, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Roanoke.
We wish these leaders the best in their new roles and are confident that they will be instrumental in the future growth and success of Bonitz.
"I am extremely excited about these promotions, and eager to focus on the operational aspects of the business. Each of these individuals brings a different skillset to the table, and all are committed to growing our business.
The next three months will be a transition period. There will obviously now be Director of Operations openings in Nashville, Roanoke, and Greenville."
- Ron Lutwiller
Congrats, Chris Passmore!
Director of Operations for Winston Salem
"It is my pleasure to announce Chris Passmore as the new Director of Operations in our Winston Salem office. Chris will be replacing William Huckaby who was recently promoted to Regional Director of Sales. Over the next 3 months, Chris and William will work through the transition of leadership in that office.
Chris has been with Bonitz since 2014, and has held the positions of Estimator, Project Manager, and most recently, Production Manager. Having been in the Winston Bonitz office over the last 9 years, Chris has a strong understanding of the market, our customers, and the labor resources that are available. Furthermore, he is a highly respected member of that team; living out our core values, and demonstrating excellence in all that he does.
I am extremely excited for Chris and the Winston team. Please join me in congratulating him on this promotion!"
- Ron Lutwiller
CONGRATS, DEB DOZIER!
Director of Operations for Hilton Head
"A lot of our employees are unaware that we have a location in Hilton Head. Hilton Head has been that “anomaly” office within our footprint, as they only cater to the residential market.
Over the years, this “golden gem” location has had a long history of being profitable; primarily due to the relationships, knowledge and experience of Sterling Hight – the Director of Operations . After many years in the business, and with Bonitz, Sterling has decided to spend more time with family, but to remain in a part time, sales position.
With all that said, effective immediately, Deb Dozier is now stepping into the Director of Operations role, and will assume all responsibilities of the Hilton Head Office. Deb came to us with an extensive background in retail, and has a very elevated understanding of customer service. Over the last 9 months, she has worked extensively with Sterling, to better understand the business, as well as the market there in Hilton Head.
So if you are ever in Hilton Head, stop in and say “Hi” to Deb, Lori, Danny and Sterling (if he isn’t playing golf). They would love to meet other Bonitz employees!"
- Ron Lutwiller
Congrats, Stewart Watson!
Director of Operations for Greenville
"It is my pleasure to announce Stewart Watson as the new Director of Operations in our Greenville office. Stewart and I will work through the transition of leadership over the next few months.
Stewart has been with Bonitz since 2002, and has held the positions of Project Manager, Production Manager, Risk Manager, and Project Consultant. Stewart has a tremendous amount of knowledge regarding all aspects of our business. He has conducted himself in a highly respected manner throughout his career and has been a leader in every role he has held."
- Adam Stewart
Congrats, Brian Steadman!
Director of Sales for Greenville
"Brian began his career with Bonitz in 2008 as a steadfast estimator for over 7 years and was recognized as a three-time STAR Award Winner. In 2018 Brian returned to Bonitz as a Project Consultant where he exceeded his sales goals year over year. Once again, he was honored as a Vision Award winner and incumbent Salesperson of the Year. Additionally, Brian manages to make additional contributions towards the optimization of CRM and the Systems Integration project. He is also a CRM Super User Trainer.
Brian’s years of industry experience and strong understanding of the Greenville market, our sales team, and our customers, makes him a tremendous asset to our growing team.
Lastly, when Brian isn’t championing the Vision of the Bonitz Values and Mission, he’s always looking for ways to bring laughter and fun into the workplace. We can always count on his practical jokes and his famous Sky-Line Chili dip at every team potluck.
I couldn’t be more excited to partner with Brian and the Greenville team as we align Sales and Operations for continued success."
- Tanya Jones
"I want to thank each of you for allowing me to live my dream. You have helped me grow personally and professionally over the last 38 years at Bonitz. I am humbled by you, and I have learned so much from you. You have positively impacted and enhanced my life. I am so proud of all that you have accomplished while dealing with so much adversity. Your company is going to great places because of each of you. It has truly been the biggest honor in my life to lead you and Bonitz over the last seven years."
"Cheers to our futures and keeping Life Balance!!!!!!!"
Read the full letter from Pete by clicking the button below.
Charleston Holiday Party
Charleston, SC
A bit of a throwback at this point, but it'll be time to sweater up again before you know it!
"Thanks to all for participating in our Charleston Holiday Party + White Elephant + Ugly Sweater gathering! It was an afternoon filled with fun festivities and lots of laughs!"
STARNET SEEDS OF GROWTH
Atlanta, GA
The Starnet Seeds of Growth event in Atlanta attended by Nicole Lyons, Matt Hanson, Jessica Jenkins, Jennifer Royston, Tucker Furr, Ric Blankenburg, Josh Landon, and Matt Smith back on March 19-21st. The Starnet hosted event had our associates touring 3 types of mills: Carpet (J&J), LVT (Mannington), and Rubber (Mannington).
STarnet - MAPEI -Dal Tile
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Starnet members participated in three unique training programs in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Mapei graciously hosted the events at their North America corporate headquarters. Monday kicked off Starnet’s first “Principal Summit”. The program connects growth-oriented companies of similar size for an immersive learning experience. Co-hosted by Daltile, 15 Starnet Member entrepreneurs participated in the event to get inspired with new ideas to build and expand their businesses.
On Tuesday and Wednesday 38 Starnet member sales professionals joined Daltile and Mapei for the Starnet Tile and Stone Training. The 2-day event focused on selling floor and wall applications and finishes. At the conclusion of the training attendees took home new skills to "Catch the Growth Wave" in the fast growing tile and stone product category.
The final training program was Starnet Floor Care’s Annual Convention. The two day program provided floor care operators from around the United States and Canada multiple learning and breakout sessions focused on growth and operational profitability. New this year, a speed dating session was held with Starnet Floor Care Vendor Partners and members to grow together.
Overall, the training programs were very successful with attendees excited to implement new income producing activities upon their return home to the office.
Video Link: https://workdrive.zohoexternal.com/external/173c6a155cc6bb501aee8eba6b5ecb789a2e5d3a86854fadc65d74cc0aa389b9
ROAR Event
Winston Salem, NC
Bonitz Charlotte and Raleigh traveled to Winston Salem to support Winston Salem's NCHEA - Roar Event with Blum. The night was full of making new connections, bowling, golf, raffles, giveaways, and so much fun. Having neighboring offices there to support the event made the Bonitz team's presence even more impactful. People are still talking about how much fun this event was!
(Photos: Nicole Lyons, Kailee Bennice, Scott Cornatzer, Dan Tilly, William Huckaby, Josh Bonkowsky, Miles Oconnell)
Rolling Deep
Charleston, SC
The Charleston team went on a Deep Sea Fishing outing with industry friends from William Bird, Schonox & Roppe.
Pictured: Markus Boppre Schonox, Dave Jaskiewicz PM, Chris Jordan PM, Alex Council Director of Ops, Blaine West PC, Steve Urick Estimator, Kimberly Kirk PC, Martin Stoudenmire PM, Jessica Nix William Bird, John Carter Roppe
Knoxville Retreat
Knoxville, TN
The Knoxville team started their day out at Iron Mountain Sporting Clays with friendly competition shooting the clays course. Then they finished the day at Nascar Speed Park racing go-karts. They had a great time while practicing our core values of passion to win + power of the team. Way to go team!
Bonitzfest
Raleigh, NC
It's always a groovy time at Bonitzfest in Raleigh! It's great to have our vendors join in on the fun and show off their awesome products. Project Consultant Kailee Bennice knows how to host!!
Charleston Product Show
Charleston, SC
Great views and great people; the Charleston Product Show was a hit! Director of Sales Karla Towe always puts in 110% when she's working on something, and it showed. Over 300 people were in attendance this year! Bonitz partnered with HPS Schönox for a Rainbow Road competition where contestants assembled and painted houses made out of Schönox AP.
Halls for the Win
Charleston, SC
After the show, some of our associates were treated to a lovely dinner from our friends Gerflor – Keith Wall & Huiet England, Conner Sports – Brandon Kelley, Master Terrazzo – Michael Blackburn & Adam Murray. Regional Director of Operations Specialties Ben James made an excellent sommelier. The food was as wonderful as the company it was shared with. Director of Sales Nicole Lyons even celebrated a birthday while in Charleston. Cheers!
Dixie Youth League
Dillon, SC
Charleston Project Consultant Kimberly Kirk's son Brody went to the state tournament with the Dixie Youth League and placed third. The tournament was in Dillon SC and they were undefeated the entire season. Look at Brody showing the power of the team spirit and passion to win!
Charlotte Clothes Drive
Charlotte, NC
The Charlotte office pulled together to donate items for a local clothing drive last winter. The items were donated to a local outreach organization called Project Outpour in Charlotte, NC (Pictured: Director Laura Gorecki). Project Outpour provides support to the homeless population in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. Shout out to our Risk Manager Ben Galloway for showing that "It starts with me" also works when helping the community!
"We believe the dignity that comes with being and feeling clean is a human right, and a need that every person desires and deserves to have met." - Project Outpour
Bill Rogers Scholarship Winners
Our CEO Pete Larmore met with our winners and shared his intentional life journey philosophy; encouraging them to start each day with a goal in mind. They have all shown a passion to win when it comes to their education. Bonitz is excited to watch these bright students continue to succeed in life!
Janae Frank (Daughter of Osbert Abrams of our Raleigh Office) is currently in the nursing program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University in Greensboro, NC.
Mackenzie Richey (Daughter of Chris Richey in our Greenville Office) is studying Elementary and Early Education at Anderson University in Anderson, SC.
Noel Martinez Jr. (Son of Noel Martinez of our Concord Office) is pursuing a pre-med degree at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). His major is Health Systems Management, along with Chemistry and Gerontology.
Autism Awareness
Charlotte, NC
The Charlotte Office participated in Autism Awareness Month! Thanks to Estimator Julia Waitt for bringing the cause to the Bonitz office. Julia is a strong advocate for autism awareness and has spoken out against disability exclusion in the NC school system. Her son Cohen and every other child deserve an education system that includes their needs.
View this link to read more about Julia's story featured on Charlotte's WCNC local news.
"The people have a right to the privilege of education, and it is the duty of the State to guard and maintain that right."
4th Annual Chef’s Table
Charleston, SC
This annual event is hosted by the students of the Technical College of the Lowcountry – Culinary Institute of the South at Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head, SC. This is a long-standing client of ours who is doing amazing things in our local community and we look forward to supporting & enjoying this delicious event every year! This years attendees were: Alex Council, Karla Towe, Brooke Allison & Zenos Morris and partner, Laticia (Town of Hilton Head) & Larry Beckler & wife, Melanie (Technical College of the Lowcountry). November 10, 2022.
Proceeds Benefit: The students, faculty and academic programs at the Culinary Institute of the South at Technical College of the Lowcountry
Furever Home Adoption Event
Raleigh, NC
The Raleigh office chose FreedomRide Rescue and donated dog food, dog pads, toys and much more. They raised over $500 in donations and some dogs are in the process of getting adopted! They had ball pits and puppy portraits. Congrats to Project Consultant Kailee Bennice and the Raleigh office for putting together this successful charity event!
"We took advantage of the Bonitz WLBC suggestion in a Mocktail Hour before our event and we plan to do this again. Everyone enjoyed a nice refreshing break!"
Breast Cancer Awareness
Greenville, SC
Csaba Szabo one of our Foremen at our Greenville location, showed his support by wearing this awesome pink safety gear for breast cancer awareness month (October). He happens to be celebrating his 30th year working at Bonitz; thank you, Csaba for your years of hard work!!
A Special Thank you
"Gives a whole new meaning to ‘Bontiz family’."
"Good afternoon. Many people know that my husband was diagnosed with cancer at the beginning of the year. About 3 months later I was informed my cancer had returned after 3 ½ years in remission. About a month after that my new car was totaled by a hit and run. Needless to say, we have had an especially difficult year. BUT, I work at the most amazing office with great people. My husband and I both continued to work through the chemo and radiation treatments and when I was having a bad day, my co-workers stepped in to help without being asked and they were so very patient with me on my cranky days. The best part? I was put on so many prayer chains! I am extremely happy to announce that my husband's cancer is gone and he is 100% in remission! I was just informed last week that I, too, am in a sort of remission showing no spreading of any new cancer! Prayer chains really do work folks. We are just taking it easy and recovering from the treatments and enjoying life as much as we can, spending time with family and friends. A special thanks to Rachel Remlinger HRBP Total Rewards, who is just an angel who helped me with my insurance woes. I would call her in a panic and she took care of it right away and stayed on it until all was well again. I look forward to hugging you Rachel! Thank you to my Bonitz family who would help me and check on me to make sure I was ok throughout it all. I really could not have stayed as positive without all of your support. Staying positive is vital to recovery."
- Barbara Leopard Project Specialist in Charleston, SC
Safety in Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville celebrated a company record this year by reaching over 2000 days safe! This was accomplished by the hard work of the Knoxville staff and field employees to keep safety a top priority every day.
It speaks to the values of each team member and the safety culture that has been long withstanding in the Knoxville Office. They know that "It Starts With Me" when it comes to staying safe.
WLBC Wellness Walk
The Work Life Balance Club encouraged associates to step outside for a quick walk and some fresh air. Taking the time to clear your head during a busy workday can set you up to as Pete says, "Get Your Mind Right". When your mind is in the right place, you're more likely to respond to a situation in the best way possible, following the E + R = O mindset (Event + Response = Outcome).
- Health & Wellness by sponsoring events like this walk!
- Personal Growth by furthering our Bonitz employees’ and construction partners’ knowledge of best-in-class craftmanship.
- Community by uniting our Bonitz employees and the construction industry through networking and relationships.
- Empowerment by creating a culture of caring in our working environment and encouraging an accepting and supportive culture.
If you want to join the club reach out to KateRigby@bonitz.com
Blaze Capital Partners
Charleston, SC
"With an abundance of natural light throughout the space, the design team focused on finishes that provided an upscale feel, while complimenting the views showcased in the nine-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. This project started out like many, design process, bid documents, procurement and then in true 2022 fashion...material delays. The General Contractor reached out and asked us to provide material options that would keep the design intent, stay in budget & keep the project on schedule. Our team partnered with J+J Flooring to do just that and we were able to deliver a beautifully designed project, on time and in budget."
Bright Oak
Johns Island, SC
Architect: The Middleton Group
GC: Ferrara Buist
DP: Karla Towe
PC: Kimberly Kirk – Flooring
PM: Jared Rich - Flooring
PS: Danielle Kollars
PM: Jamie Higgins – Contracting
We installed the flooring throughout with lots of unique patterns. Our contracting team installed the cute little tiny houses!
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Check out these awesome photos from the Clemson Business School project that Bonitz worked on. Look at that beautiful terrazzo!!
https://www.archdaily.com/977246/wilbur-o-and-ann-powers-college-of-business-lmn-architects
First Presbyterian Church
Charlotte, NC
The church has been so please with the entire project, that we have completed other projects for them directly, and are scheduled for more renovations this year.
"Not every contractor can take apart a 100+ year old church, renovate and upgrade it to carry on for another 100 years. We had the opportunity to do just that while working with the team at Rodgers Builders on the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Charlotte last fall. Part of the renovations included new structural support of the entire sanctuary floor, that the members of the church wanted to save. That meant removal of the existing hardwood flooring, and salvaging as much as possible before new supports were put in place. Then the entire floor needed to be re-sheathed with plywood. Between the unknown conditions that were found during the demolition and the extremely long lead times for custom materials, everyone needed to consider 3 to 4 steps ahead, more than the typical project.
It was critical to have enough material to blend both the new growth with the existing old-growth wood and make it look natural, and match the stain to the existing wainscot and millwork throughout the church.
Along with the wood flooring in the sanctuary and choir loft, Bonitz furnished and installed new Shaw custom hospitality broadloom carpet on the balcony, stairs and aisle runners."
- Tim Scheessele
Alcoa
Knoxville, TN
Shout out to Director of Terrazzo & Resinous Flooring Amanda Rodgers for sending over these incredible shots of this terrazzo project! It's been awesome seeing so many amazing specialty flooring jobs being completed. Feels like it'd be a shame to walk on such masterful work our specialists complete.
Hard at work
Greenville, SC
These two are always hard at work. It took a lot of time, effort, and people to pull the 2023 Annual Sales Meeting together. These ladies were instrumental in making this event a success. Shout out to Regional Director of Sales Tanya Jones and Director of Sales Karla Towe for all your efforts!! Next year will be even better.
Cowboy Up
Greenville, SC
Nashville came in hot with their full cowboy get-up. Project Consultant Kate Rigby from the Nashville office won the best-dressed award. Charleston Director of Operations Alex Council celebrated a birthday with a cake included. Director of Sales William Huckaby gave out prizes to the golf winners. There was line dancing, good food & music, and a lot of fun—a great night to end on.
More bonitz babies!
Charlotte, NC
Noel Martinez was blessed with 3 beautiful granddaughters!
On the right side is baby Ariana and on the left side is baby Layla, and on the other picture is baby Cataleya. Ariana is 6 months old she born on March 6th, 2023, at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in charlotte NC. Layla is 1 year and 9 months old she was born on December 13th at Atrium Health Cabarrus in concord NC.
Cataleya is 3 years old.