The DiZio file
Born: Philadelphia
Education: Bachelor’s degree in management and finance, East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
First job: I began selling pretzels on a street corner when I was 11. Now I’m 39, and I’ve been selling pretzels for all but two of those years when I was a stockbroker.
What is the best business lesson you’ve learned?
Startup money is so valuable, so don’t waste it. We wasted a lot at first and ultimately had to end up redoing a lot of the work. So really watch those dollars and know where the money is going.
What traits or skills are essential for a business leader?
You have to understand your product and know the business. You need to be able to relay your thoughts and passion to others, and train them.
What is your definition of success?
Success to me is going to work and doing something I love. I think people go on vacation to escape their lives, but I love where I am. I love watching where we grow, and watching our stores grow.
