US ISSN 2770-7830
10 BEST COMPANIES OF THE YEAR 2023
Carson Lappetito, President
Sunwest Bank Empowering Entrepreneurs, Illuminating Possibilities
DECEMBER 2023
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EDITOR’S DESK
I
'm thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible companies that have been setting new standards in 2023. These aren't just success stories; they're journeys of determination and innovation that have reshaped the business landscape. Throughout this year, these exceptional companies faced challenges with unwavering resolve, crafting narratives of resilience and triumph. Their stories echo the power of perseverance and ingenuity, showcasing how overcoming obstacles fuels growth and innovation. What sets these companies apart is their audacious spirit to push boundaries. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and visionary strategies, they've not just adapted to change but have pioneered it, redefining industries and inspiring others to dream big. Moreover, their impact extends far beyond their boardrooms. They're actively contributing to societal progress—supporting causes, championing diversity, and fostering environments where everyone can thrive. They've proven that success isn't just about profits; it's about creating a meaningful impact that uplifts communities. Let's raise our virtual glasses to celebrate these exceptional companies. They're not just about achieving milestones; they're about igniting a spark within all of us to strive for progress and create a brighter future.
Best,
Daniel Shelby Managing Editor The Chief's Digest editor@thechiefsdigest.com
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12. Sunwest Bank
18. Issuer Direct Corp 22. Rank Harvest, LLC
CONTENTS
14. Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn
10 Best Companies of the year 2023 COMPANY NAME
MANAGEMENT
COMPANY IN BRIEF
Issuer Direct Corp
Brian R. Balbirnie, President & Chief Executive Officer
Issuer Direct is a leading communications and compliance company, providing solutions for both Public Relations and Investor Relations Professionals.
Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn
Bob Chitrathorn, Vice President
Bob Chitrathorn is a registered representative with, and securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Rank Harvest, LLC
Michael Chagala, Founder & CEO
Rank Harvest is a premium search engine optimization agency specializing in driving traffic to corporate and enterprise-level brands.
Sunwest Bank
Carson Lappetito, President
Established by James Engbarth in 1969 as Santiago Community Bank in Tustin, California, Sunwest Bank was conceived with a visionary mission.
STARPAX BIOPHARMA
Michael Gareau, President, CEO & Chairman
Deussen Global Communications
Christine Deussen, President
Paul Gregory Media
Paul Feith, President & Founder
Pretty Girl Makeup
Christina Flach, President & CEO
Rank Harvest, LLC
Michael Chagala, Founder & CEO
Rank Harvest is a premium search engine optimization agency specializing in driving traffic to corporate and enterprise-level brands.
Xsolla
Chris Hewish, President & Interim CEO
Xsolla’s Solutions Bring Your Games To The World
Starpax is a dual Biopharma / Medtech Company that has developed a revolutionary platform for treating cancer.
Deussen Global is a communications agency specializing in wines, spirits, travel, and food.
Paul Gregory Media is a 17 year old digital marketing agency in downtown Naperville, Illinois.
Pretty Girl Makeup will make you the most beautiful version of you.
Carson Lappetito, President
E E
stablished by James Engbarth in 1969 as Santiago Community Bank in Tustin, California, Sunwest Bank was conceived with a visionary mission. From its inception, the bank aimed not only to provide essential banking services but also to be a catalyst for economic empowerment within Orange County. As the institution evolved from its early roots as Santiago Community Bank to rebranding as Sunwest Bank, each phase marked a period of substantial growth and transformation.
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Navigating Turbulent Waters: Resilience Amidst Adversity Sunwest Bank faced its most defining moment during the financial crisis, a period that tested the mettle of financial institutions across the globe. However, Sunwest Bank's resilience stemmed from its robust balance sheet and conservative underwriting practices. While many institutions faltered, Sunwest not only weathered the storm but capitalized on the opportunity, acquiring five banks from the FDIC. This strategic move catapulted the bank from a local
community entity to a nationwide presence, expanding across multiple states in the United States. Ethical Pillars and Community Focus: Serving Entrepreneurs At its core, Sunwest Bank has always stood for two fundamental principles: enabling entrepreneurs to realize the American Dream and giving back to the community. This deeply ingrained ethos has been a driving force since the bank's inception. It positions Sunwest as a financial institution designed for entrepreneurs, led by
Sunwest Bank
Empowering Entrepreneurs, Illuminating Possibilities
individuals who intimately understand the challenges and aspirations of the business world. Adaptive Offerings: Tailoring Solutions to Needs Sunwest Bank's distinctive proposition lies in its Fortress Balance Sheet, boasting reserves significantly higher than industry standards. This fortified financial position ensures stability, enabling the bank to weather economic storms and steadfastly support entrepreneurs across all stages of their financial journeys. The bank's diverse array of offerings, ranging from specialized banking services to innovative digital platforms, underscores its commitment to addressing varied financial needs. Strategic Triumph: Thriving Through Unique Strategies During the aftermath of the 20072009 economic crisis, Sunwest Bank's approach diverged significantly from conventional banking practices. While other institutions tightened lending, Sunwest embarked on acquiring and reviving failing banks. This strategy not only ensured survival but also positioned the bank as a beacon of stability amidst adversity. This forward-thinking strategy was instrumental in
cementing the bank's robust financial standing. Cultivating Vibrant Culture: Prioritizing Employee Well-being Complementing its financial strength, Sunwest Bank places significant emphasis on fostering a vibrant work culture. The bank's comprehensive benefits package, inclusive of medical, dental, and vision coverage, alongside various perks and professional development opportunities, reflects its commitment to employee well-being. The bank's dedication to social events, recognition programs, and inclusive workplace practices further contributes to a holistic and engaging work environment. Success Metrics: Stability Amidst Fluctuations Sunwest Bank measures success not merely in financial metrics but in its resilience through economic fluctuations. The bank's assets under management exceeding $2.5 billion underscore its stability and unwavering commitment to supporting customers across economic cycles. Anchored by its Fortress Balance Sheet, Sunwest Bank continues to offer steadfast support to its clientele.
Distinctive Edge: Personalized Service and Enduring Relationships What sets Sunwest Bank apart is its unwavering commitment to personalized service and cultivating enduring relationships. Since its inception, the bank has championed a customer-centric approach, offering tailored solutions and maintaining a steadfast focus on delivering superior service. Bolstered by its Fortress Balance Sheet, Sunwest Bank continues to forge ahead, assisting entrepreneurs with financial acumen and personalized attention. Future Vision: Growth and Resilience Looking ahead, Sunwest Bank envisions continued growth and resilience. With a renewed focus on solar initiatives and a steadfast commitment to forging enduring relationships, the bank aims to solidify its position as a stalwart in the financial landscape. Sunwest's dedication to its customers and its unyielding financial foundation will remain the guiding principles as it continues its journey, embodying the true spirit of entrepreneurial fortitude.
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B
ob Chitrathorn, co-founder of Simplified Wealth Management, narrates a story woven with humble origins and unwavering dedication. Raised by Thai immigrant parents in a Colton, California mobile home park, he imbibed the values of diligence and education early on. His academic journey, marked by a scholarship to La Sierra University and a subsequent Finance and Real Estate degree from Cal State San Bernardino, set the stage for his career as a financial advisor in 2004. This journey illuminated his passion for personal finance, driving his pursuit to assist individuals in managing their wealth.
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Inception and Ideals Behind Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn The genesis of Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn stemmed from a dissatisfaction with corporate priorities overshadowing genuine assistance. Witnessing a shift towards profit-centric approaches in previous roles, Bob envisioned a practice where the focus remained squarely on helping and educating individuals. This aspiration led to the birth of his practice, centered on personalized financial planning and guidance.
Service Offerings and Evolving Consumer Responses Bob's suite of financial services encompasses a spectrum, ranging from comprehensive financial planning and guided wealth portfolios to risk analysis, investment initiation, insurance planning, college financials, and specialized counsel as a Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro. These offerings have expanded over time, shaped by the needs he identified among clients. Notably, his recent foray into aiding individuals with Medicare stemmed from recognizing systemic issues within the industry that often overlooked
COMPANIES
Bob Chitrathorn A Journey of Simplified Wealth Management
Bob Chitrathorn | Vice President
end-users in favor of corporate interests. Overcoming Challenges: Youth and Expertise Early challenges centered on Bob's youthful appearance, posing difficulties in immediately establishing credibility with older clients. Undeterred, he redirected his focus toward younger individuals, becoming a mentor and coach for many. The gratitude he received from this demographic bolstered his resolve and solidified his position as a trusted advisor.
true success emanates from positively impacting the lives of those he works with, driven by an unwavering commitment to genuine care and assistance.
Work Culture and Business Ethics At Wealth Planning By Bob Chitrathorn, the ethos revolves around fundamental principles: Client-Centric Approach: Always strive to do the best for the individual seeking assistance. Transparency and Honesty: Uphold these values in every interaction. Genuine Care: Foster deep connections with those being helped. For Bob, success is intertwined with these core values. He believes that
Continuing Journey and Unwavering Passion Reflecting on his journey, Bob maintains that as long as there's growth and positive influence, the path has been worthwhile. His commitment to expanding his reach and positively impacting lives remains undiminished, signifying an ongoing journey of impact and purpose.
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Issuer Direct Corporation
Brian R. Balbirnie | President & Chief Executive Officer
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COMPANIES
Redefining Compliance Solutions for Tomorrow's Businesses I compliance and effective
n an era where regulatory
communication are critical components of corporate success, Issuer Direct Corporation has emerged as a pioneering force, reshaping the landscape of compliance solutions. Founded on a bedrock of innovation, commitment, and unwavering dedication, this company has etched its name as a trailblazer in providing cutting-edge tools and services for disclosure management and compliance needs. Building a Culture of Innovation and Collaboration Issuer Direct isn't just a company; it's an ecosystem thriving on innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. Its success story is deeply rooted in a vibrant work culture that values creativity, teamwork, and continuous learning. Here, employees aren't just part of a workforce; they're catalysts for change. The company's culture fosters an environment where diverse voices are not only welcomed but celebrated, sparking innovation and personal growth.
in the industry. Their intuitive, userfriendly platforms not only meet but anticipate the needs of clients, empowering businesses to navigate complex regulatory landscapes seamlessly.
innovations. By forging strategic partnerships and investing in research and development, Issuer Direct aims to maintain its position as an industry leader, setting the pace for transformative solutions.
Driving Success: The Pillars of Issuer Direct's Triumph
Success Rooted in Innovation, Client-Centricity, and Adaptability
The company's success is propelled by its innovative technology, constantly evolving to meet the demands of a dynamic market. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, Issuer Direct ensures its services remain indispensable for clients seeking efficient compliance solutions. Moreover, the company's clientcentric approach stands as a key differentiator, fostering enduring relationships built on trust, reliability, and a track record of delivering tangible results. Additionally, Issuer Direct's ability to adapt and grow sustainably positions them as a reliable partner capable of meeting evolving demands and setting new standards of excellence.
Issuer Direct Corporation's success is multifaceted, rooted in a blend of innovation, client-centricity, and adaptability. Their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology ensures their solutions remain ahead of the curve. Their client-centric approach fosters enduring relationships built on trust and reliability. Moreover, the company's adaptability positions them as a reliable partner capable of navigating changes while consistently delivering excellence in compliance solutions.
Navigating Future Horizons Services Tailored for Tomorrow's Challenges At the core of Issuer Direct's offerings lies a suite of services meticulously crafted to simplify the most intricate compliance requirements. From regulatory filing tools to shareholder communication platforms, their solutions are driven by cutting-edge technology, setting new benchmarks
Looking ahead, Issuer Direct Corporation is committed to expanding its service portfolio to cater to the evolving needs of clients amidst an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. Their vision involves not just meeting but surpassing client expectations, driven by a dedication to staying ahead of market trends and technological
In conclusion, Issuer Direct Corporation stands as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a dynamic work culture, unparalleled services, ambitious goals, and a track record of remarkable achievements, the company continues to redefine the compliance solutions landscape for businesses, setting new standards and inspiring industry transformation.
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Michael Chagala | Founder & CEO
22 / THE CHIEF’S DIGEST
COMPANIES
Rank Harvest,LLC Driving Success through Technical Prowess and Transparent Relationships at Rank Harvest SEO
M
ichael Chagala's journey as the Founder and CEO of Rank Harvest, LLC, stems from a profound passion for empowering businesses through effective digital marketing strategies. His vision and leadership have been pivotal in positioning Rank Harvest as a premium provider of search engine optimization services for local and national businesses, especially in highly competitive markets and challenging niche rankings. A relentless pursuit of knowledge and growth has marked Michael's career trajectory. Beginning as an unpaid intern sweeping the floors of a software development company's server room, he ascended the ranks from a software engineer to a digital marketing expert, eventually stepping into leadership roles. His tenure as an executive at one of the fastestgrowing companies in the United States showcases his knack for driving substantial revenue growth, taking a small energy company from a $20 million annual revenue to nearly $70 million as part of a select team of Directors. This diverse experience cultivated Michael's entrepreneurial spirit and served as
individual team members' needs, aiming to mitigate the demanding work-life balance issues he encountered earlier in his career.
the catalyst for launching Rank Harvest, aligning his expertise with a deep understanding of market needs. Origins of Rank Harvest: Conceptualizing the Vision The genesis of Rank Harvest SEO arose from Michael's introspection about work-life balance and the impact of corporate demands on personal life. After years in the corporate sector, grappling with long work hours that strained his family life despite the perks and stability, he made a pivotal decision to break away and establish a digital marketing agency. This shift wasn't merely about personal liberation but also about crafting an environment where work dynamics allowed team members to flourish professionally without compromising personal commitments. Witnessing the growth of his clients' businesses and fostering the professional development of his team members has become the heart of Michael's motivation at Rank Harvest. He's passionately dedicated to fostering a work culture that values flexibility and accommodates
Company Offerings: Specialized Services and Commitment to Excellence Rank Harvest's repertoire revolves around two core services: Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Paid Advertising. What sets Rank Harvest apart is its distinct focus on the technical aspects of digital marketing rather than solely leaning towards creativity. With in-house graphic design and content writing talent, the company seamlessly integrates creative elements into its SEO and paid advertising strategies. The team's relentless dedication to mastering these fundamental areas ensures the delivery of exceptional work that consistently surpasses client expectations. Despite the potential to expand its service portfolio, the company remains steadfast in upholding its reputation for technical excellence and unparalleled service delivery.
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Overcoming Challenges: A Paradigm Shift in Business Ownership The transition from a conventional corporate career trajectory to entrepreneurship was not devoid of challenges for Michael. The predominant challenge stemmed from the fear of relinquishing a stable job. He grappled with doubts, almost succumbing to the allure of the secure corporate cubicle. Raised in an environment where conventional employment was the norm, the prospect of venturing into business ownership was daunting. The absence of role models or acquaintances engaged in entrepreneurial pursuits made the leap even more intimidating. Michael's journey deviated from the traditional narrative; he embarked on business ownership mid-career with no prior entrepreneurial experience and demanding financial expectations. His
24 / THE CHIEF’S DIGEST
business needed to succeed unequivocally from the outset, leaving no room for error or a gradual build-up. This unique circumstance compelled Michael to navigate uncharted waters, driving him to build a thriving business against formidable odds.
diverse team capable of adapting to the constantly evolving SEO landscape. By upholding these principles, the company aims to create an environment where both the Rank Harvest team and clients thrive, contributing to the company's enduring success and sustainability.
Work Culture and Business Ethics: Customer-Centric and Inclusive
Defining Success: Evolving Goals and Personal Growth
Rank Harvest's ethos is deeply rooted in customer-centricity, transparency, and empowerment. The company places a premium on surpassing client expectations by fostering open communication within its distributed team. Encouraging each member to take ownership of their responsibilities and make impactful decisions has been pivotal in cultivating a culture of accountability and innovation. Embracing flexibility, continuous learning, and inclusivity, Rank Harvest ensures a dynamic and
For Michael, success is a multifaceted journey rather than a static destination. It transcends personal accomplishments and attaining milestones; it evolves with the company's growth and the achievements of his team members. While founding Rank Harvest was a monumental success, the evolution of success spans empowering employees, celebrating their accomplishments, and fostering their professional development. Michael's perspective has shifted from
COMPANIES with the company's commitment to nurturing individual talent and allowing their expertise to guide the company's trajectory. As Rank Harvest continues to redefine the benchmarks of digital marketing, the focus remains steadfast on transparency, technical excellence, and an unwavering dedication to clients and employees. Reflecting on the Journey: Challenges, Growth, and Innovation
individual milestones to the growth and success of his team, finding greater fulfillment in their achievements than his own. Unique Business Approach: Transparency and Honesty in Sales Rank Harvest stands out for its transparent and honest sales approach, reflecting Michael's background as a software engineer turned digital marketer. Unlike traditional sales strategies, the company refrains from employing aggressive tactics to secure clients. Instead, the focus is on displaying prospective clients their current marketing status and demonstrating how Rank Harvest can provide value. Avoiding overpromising and setting realistic expectations underscores the company's commitment to building genuine relationships with clients, even if it means foregoing immediate sales for long-term trust and satisfaction.
Inspiration from Reading: A Catalyst for Growth While Michael cannot attribute his journey to a single book, the habit of reading has played a pivotal role in his growth. Reading has been a constant source of inspiration, providing valuable insights, strategies, and perspectives that have shaped various facets of his entrepreneurial path. The habit of reading has broadened Michael's horizons, facilitated continuous learning, and contributed significantly to his personal and professional development, imprinting its influence on the unique journey of Rank Harvest.
Michael's journey with Rank Harvest has been a dynamic interplay of challenges, growth, and innovation. From its inception in 2018, the company symbolizes a pivotal turning point in his career, driven by a desire for a better work-life balance and the vision to create a positive and flexible work culture. Overcoming initial fears and obstacles, such as stepping into business ownership with no prior experience, was a testament to Michael's determination, strategic decision-making, and learning from both successes and failures. Establishing Rank Harvest as a distinctive player in the digital marketing realm, emphasizing technical prowess over creative aspects, and prioritizing exceeding customer expectations have all contributed to the company's success thus far. As Rank Harvest's journey continues, innovation, empathy, and a dedication to a balanced and rewarding professional life remain its guiding principles.
Future Vision: Growth Through Employee Empowerment Michael envisions a future where Rank Harvest's growth is intertwined with the empowerment of its employees. This strategic shift aligns
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