Sponsored by:
The Emerging Leaders in Restoration Award is all about highlighting the next generation of leaders in restoration who are already transforming the industry.
Sponsored by:
The Emerging Leaders in Restoration Award is all about highlighting the next generation of leaders in restoration who are already transforming the industry.
Johns lyng usa
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
This work perfectly blends everything I’m passionate about: marketing, sales, and the satisfaction of building genuine connections. Every day is a dynamic mix of tackling existing challenges and embracing new ones, making it endlessly engaging.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
At 21, fresh out of college, I landed a real estate job that threw me straight into the fire: cold calling and door knocking, trying to drum up listings. My first day was a brutal baptism. 75+ doors…
Southeast Restoration
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
What initially drew me to the restoration industry were the people. I had no prior experience in this field, so everything about restoration was entirely new to me. However, it quickly became clear that what made this industry special wasn’t just the work—it was the people. That remains true today, and is the same reason I’ve stayed in restoration.
This industry is not for the faint of heart. It can demand early mornings, late nights, and the ability to adapt when catastrophe strikes—often requiring everyone to step outside their usual roles to get the job done and get it done with excellence. But what makes it…
Tobin restoration
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
When I got home from my two-year church mission, I was offered a job in my family’s restoration business. Honestly, I had always planned on doing something else—but it paid decently, came with a truck, and gave me a place to land while I figured out what I really wanted.
What made me stay was the challenge. Restoration is constantly evolving. Every day brings a new problem to solve, a new way to improve how we work, and a new opportunity to serve people better. I don’t know how anyone could get bored or want to leave. I’ve also fallen in love with the business side—finding ways to make things more efficient, more profitable, and more impactful for the…
Thomasville Restoration
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
It was my dad, actually. If you would have told me I would be working with my dad 10 years ago, I would have thought you were lying! This industry is ripe for multi-generational restorers with the influx of technology. But what made me stay was the opportunity to work in an industry where I can serve the teammates who serve our customers. Our team sacrifices so much on a daily basis to ensure that our customers are provided the Thomasville Touch, so I feel honored to be able to create a place where they truly love where they work and identify so deeply with the brand.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best gift you can provide someone is the gift of understanding. It is to understand someone so deeply that you can surprise and…
france & co
1. What originally drew you to the restoration industry, and what has made you stay?
As a 3rd generation restorer, I didn’t have much choice when it came to being drawn into the industry; I was 16 when I worked on my first water damage project. The rewarding nature of addressing the unique challenges and needs of each project or client is what made me stay. There is never a dull moment in this industry.
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
When I was younger, I was told by multiple people to bring alternative solutions to the table rather than just being critical of others’ opinions. This advice did not immediately take hold, but…
Kristy is an accomplished association executive with over 20 years of experience driving strategic growth, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability for her nonprofit clients. In her role as the Chief Executive Officer of the Restoration Industry Association, Kristy brings extensive leadership experience overseeing a global trade association representing over 1,700 member companies worldwide. A trusted advisor and results-driven leader, Kristy is committed to guiding organizations toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Mark was the President and CEO of Dayspring Restoration, a multi-location residential and commercial restoration company. Under his leadership, the company grew from one to seven locations through acquisitions and greenfield expansion. In 2020, he led Dayspring through a successful private equity acquisition, positioning it as a key part of FLEET Response during a time of significant growth.
A former President of the Restoration Industry Association, Mark is known for empowering high-performing teams and promoting operational excellence. He is also the author of Our Greatest Need, a publication that has inspired change across the global property restoration industry.
Mark lives in Bozeman, Montana, with his wife of 25 years, Angie. They have five daughters and two grandchildren, and he remains active in his community, emphasizing the value of connection and service.
Mandy is the Director of Business Development and Strategy at JOC Analytics, where she leads strategic initiatives and builds impactful partnerships to drive business growth. With a strong background in data-driven solutions and a passion for helping organizations thrive, Mandy plays a key role in shaping JOC’s client success strategies. Originally from the Southeast, she brings a thoughtful, people-focused mindset to both her professional and personal life. A proud mom of five, Mandy balances her dynamic career with the joys and challenges of raising a big family—and still finds time to mentor others and explore local food scenes.
Lauren has been utilizing her writing expertise as C&R Magazine’s Associate Editor since 2023. After gaining a degree in legal studies, she ultimately chose to channel her writing capabilities to help support small businesses in the construction and restoration industries with their marketing efforts. Her ability to ask insightful questions helps uncover the core essence of each business, generating content that enhances brand identity and fosters genuine connections. Lauren calls Des Moines, Iowa home, where she resides with her husband and three children.