Chef Nik Minadakis, Charm City Seafood
Born and raised in the restaurant business and Nik LOVES what he does. Loves being able to express his Maryland/Greek roots through his food. The one thing he LOVES more is seeing the reaction from people after they taste his food. He and his team give back to the community as often as they can. Sometimes once a week, sometimes once a month. That responsibility comes with being part of his team.
Benny Robles, Jr., Bartow Ford
Benny Robles, Jr. grew up around Bartow Ford.
“I have worked here since I was 12,” Robles Jr. explained. “I started out washing cars and mowing lawns but became full-time after college.” Robles Jr. attended Florida Southern College, studying finance.
Working at the dealership seemed as natural to Robles Jr as hanging out an arcade may have to someone else that age – because his father, Robles Sr., had joined the Bartow Ford family in 1977, and rose through the ranks, becoming one of the owners in 1985 – eventually becoming the majority owner.
Robles Jr. soon left the car washing to someone else, as he advanced into management – from Internet Sales to Finance Manager, and then to Sales Manager, General Sales Manager, and then General Manager.
Along the way, he focused his education on all things industry-related, including the National Automotive Dealers Association’s Academy, which prepares current and future dealership leaders to operate a successful and profitable automotive business.
By 2014, he was featured in Automotive News as one of their “40 Under 40”, an annual issue that recognizes young achievers in the auto industry.
Robles Jr.’s next career step was logical but huge: He not only became an owner, but the majority owner, and President, in January 2017.
Since then, the 74-year-old company has increased profitability and continued to win awards for customer service. Bartow Ford earned its 23rd President’s Award from Ford Motor Company, which recognizes exceptional customer service and vehicle buying experience.
A resident of Lakeland, Florida, Robles Jr. enjoys traveling, fitness, and spending time with his three children.
