Michelle Christ - President

Michelle is proud now to be leading Starved Rock Wood Products, having joined in 2022 as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining the team, she held senior financial leadership roles at MoboTrex and Terso Solutions. As President, Michelle’s focus is on creating a future-facing organization and culture that can adapt to the growth the company is experiencing across the Midwest and Chicagoland markets in particular.  She holds a BA in Accounting and an MBA.

What does “Wood. Working. Beautifully” mean to Michelle?

“We apply our motto “Wood. Working. Beautifully” throughout the entire organization, because it represents our pride in the superior craftsmanship we put into every item that leaves our workshop. It also reassures our customers that they’re getting something beautiful that will last a lifetime.”

Steve Parisee - SVP Sales & Marketing

Steve is a graduate of the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT., with a degree in Business Administration. He has extensive experience in building materials and has held progressive multi-channel Sales and Marketing leadership roles throughout his career. Originally from the East Coast, Steve and his family moved to the Midwest in 2002 and he has worked for top organizations such as Pella Corporation and Elkay Manufacturing. Of particular professional interest to Steve is building high performance sales teams and helping organizations develop go to market strategies for their businesses.

What does “Wood. Working. Beautifully” mean to Steve?

“I love this at many levels; first, it’s all about the beauty of wood and the craftsmanship we put into our products. But the “working” word is key too;  in today’s design it’s critical that the materials we use all work together for each custom environment. We know cabinets are the major piece of any kitchen but fundamentally all the pieces need to work well together.”

Tom Hayward - Director of Operations

Tom is a passionate and driven Manufacturing Operations executive, with over 30 years experience of growing and improving companies. During his career he has held high-level manufacturing leadership roles with world class companies such as HomeCrest Cabinets Division of MasterBrand Cabinets, Fisher Hamilton, and Baker Furniture. 

Tom has a Masters of Management degree from Northwestern University, a Bachelors of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering and is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. In his spare time, Tom enjoys traveling, home brewing, archery and spending time with his wife, three children, and Remi the dog.

What does “Wood. Working. Beautifully” mean to Tom?

“Wood. Working. Beautifully” means creating wood products that serve a useful purpose, and continue to function flawlessly, while providing visual enjoyment over a long period of time. As Director of Operations, that’s my goal every day!

Gennie Siwicki - Director of HR

Gennie is a strategic global HR leader with nearly 20 years of experience in many industries including manufacturing, sales, banking, and energy in both union and non-union environments.  She has extensive experience in organizational development, change management, process improvement and compliance.  

Gennie has a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership and Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, both from Concordia University Wisconsin.  She is also a certified professional through the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM-CP).  When not at work, Gennie enjoys volunteering in her community and spending time with her family.

What does “Wood. Working. Beautifully” mean to Gennie?

“Wood. Working. Beautifully.” is the banner under which our employees come together as one team to make beautiful products to enhance the homes of our customers.  We have an amazing team full of talented craftsmen who take great pride in the work they do every day.  I am proud to be on this team and serve the employees at SRWP!