Get To Know The Team
Marla Valbrun
Position: Purchasing Agent
Marla calls New York home, where she enjoys life’s simple pleasures like reading romance and comedy books in French, relaxing, and catching up on sleep. Though not a big TV or movie fan, she enjoys playing online games and listening to music while driving. In warm weather, she loves hiking and visiting Florida’s beaches, reminiscent of Haiti. Family is central to her life, especially her annual trips with her four sisters. Marla is selective about travel but always enjoys visiting Haiti to explore its provinces. She values simplicity, believes in being a good listener, and loves Cookies ‘n Cream Fudge.
Marla Valbrun
Purchasing Agent
Marko McLeod
Position: Sr. Shipping Clerk
Marko enjoys riding bikes, playing soccer, and shooting hoops with his two sons. He belongs to an over-30 soccer league where you’ll find him each Sunday during the season. He likes board games (Monopoly is his favorite!), listening to all genres of music, and watching Netflix. Marko loves to travel and makes an annual trip home to Jamaica at least once a year. He can’t stop eating Cinnamon Glazed Almonds and won’t say no to Cookie Dough Fudge. His philosophy? “Whatever you do, do well.”
Marko McLeod
Sr. Shipping Clerk
Mary Kempis
Position: Shipping Clerk
The one thing Mary loves most about living with her five siblings is all the talking, laughing, and singing. Music is Mary’s life and she much prefers it over television or movies. She enjoys karoake, singing, and Tik Tok dances. She’s not into sports, but does enjoy cooking, especially making rice. Not much of a traveler, her bucket list destination is Las Vegas. She used to be head cashier in a bingo boutique and misses the sounds of the machines! Her favorite fudge flavors are Cookies ‘n Cream and Pumpkin.
Mary Kempis
Shipping Clerk
Meagan Johnson
Position: Data Engineer
Meagan is an avid dog lover who enjoys spending time with her energetic boxer mix, Jaxon. She’s an outdoor enthusiast who loves biking and swimming, a sport she excelled in as part of her college swim team. When she’s not enjoying the beach or catching up with friends, you can find her exploring the vibrant dining and nightlife of Patchogue’s local restaurants, bars, and breweries…all just a short walk from her home.
Currently pursuing her Master of Science in Data Science, Meagan balances her studies with her love of reality TV shows like Survivor, The Challenge, and Love is Blind. She’s also a fan of classic comedies such as The Office and Arrested Development. Her travel highlights include a memorable trip to Costa Rica, and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef remains at the top of her bucket list. When it comes to fudge, Meagan is torn between two indulgent favorites: Peanut Butter Chocolate and Coconut Custard Pie.
Meagan Johnson
Data Engineer
Michael Lobaccaro
Position: Chief Financial Officer
Michael enjoys running and is a huge sports fan who loves traveling to new stadiums. His goal to visit the stadiums and arenas of all MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL teams. His all-time favorite team is the Seattle Seahawks and he’s been a proud fan from the day the franchise began. Here’s a fun fact about Michael: He hasn’t taken a sick day since 1981! Michael’s favorite fudge flavor is Cookies & Cream, but he’s a sucker for anything chocolate. He also has a soft spot for Cinnamon Glazed Almonds.
Michael Lobaccaro
Chief Financial Officer
Michelle Kempis
Position: Shipping Coordinator
A native Filipina, Michelle immigrated to the U.S. in 2019. She comes from a musical family and sings with her brothers and sisters. She loves to cook, yet her family hesitates to eat her meals since her experimenting can go awry! Michelle watches Netflix and adores inspirational, heartwarming movies. She also enjoys the writings of José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero. Michelle dreams of seeing the Great Wall of China and Niagara Falls. Her fudge of choice is pure, plain Peanut Butter Fudge!
Michelle Kempis
Shipping Coordinator
Michelle Marro
Position: Customer Care Lead
Michelle and her husband, Brandon, share their home with the sweetest little Yorkie, Molly, who brings endless joy to their lives. For Michelle, family is everything, and her close-knit bond with her grandmother, whom she lovingly calls her BFF, melts hearts. Isn’t that just the sweetest? Michelle’s creative spirit shines through her crafting projects using her trusty Cricut® cutting machine. She loves nothing more than spending time with friends, walking her dog, and soaking up the outdoors. The beach is her happy place, where the waves and sunsets out east make her summers unforgettable. Michelle enjoys Mets games, Netflix, Marvel movies, listening to country music, and attending concerts at Jones Beach. When it comes to indulging her sweet tooth, nothing beats her love for Salted Nut Roll fudge.
Michelle Marro
Customer Care Lead
Muhammad Amer
Position: Director of Quality & Food Safety
Muhammad hails from Punjab, Pakistan and enjoys spending family time with his spouse, son, daughters, and in-laws. They engage in activities suited for the children. Muhammad likes playing Cricket, watching news on television, and reading non-fiction books. Although he considers himself a homebody, visiting New York City to take in the sights, like Times Square and the Statue of Liberty is appealing. His favorite fudge is a perennial favorite…Peanut Butter Chocolate.
Muhammad Amer
Director of Quality & Food Safety
Neil Kravitz
Position: Director of Key Accounts - Grocery
A born and bred Long Islander, Neil loves to travel and has a strong affinity for cruises, with St. Maarten being his favorite port-of-call. He is passionate about technology, kayaking, hiking with his dog, Bernie, and cars. He owns four, including a ’99 Mustang convertible and a special edition Camaro (1 of only 20 made). Neil enjoys spending time with friends and family and, in his downtime, will often stream shows on Netflix and Hulu. Neil’s top fudge flavor is Cookies ‘n Cream. Yum!
Neil Kravitz
Director of Key Accounts - Grocery
Nicole Lydon
Position: Business Technical Lead
Nikki thrives on adventure, whether she’s hitting the trails with friends, or exploring new breweries. When it comes to music, she enjoys everything from country hits to the soothing sounds of unaccompanied piano pieces. On screen or in pages, Nikki enjoys escaping into period dramas and fantasy series and has a goal of 100 books this year. A true globetrotter, she plans epic vacations every year—like exploring Sri Lanka, the Galapagos Islands or cliff jumping in Greece! Centered on mindfulness and living in the moment, Nikki embraces the motto: “No rain. No flowers.” And when it’s time for a sweet treat, Chocolate Chip Cookie Sandwich Fudge is her absolute favorite indulgence.
Nicole Lydon
Business Technical Lead
Paul Fudalan
Position: Shipping Clerk
Paul is a native Filipino who likes hanging with his sister, watching YouTube and Netflix, or playing games on his phone. He’s a fan of action and enjoys the Avengers series, as well as Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee movies. Musically, Paul has a soft spot for a good love song. He also likes basketball and lawn tennis. Paul loves the sights of New York, beaches of the Philippines, and hopes to visit Egypt one day. Creating travel vlogs is a dream! Peanut Butter Chocolate is Paul’s top fudge flavor.
Paul Fudalan
Shipping Clerk
Rashi Singh
Position: Supply Chain Director
Born in New York and raised in Massachusetts, Rashi now calls Long Island home. She loves hanging out with friends, whether it’s game nights or brunch. A Bollywood music and rom-com enthusiast, she enjoys Netflix Thrillers. Rashi has explored the East Coast, falling in love with Maine’s beauty and New Hampshire’s mountains. Her favorite getaway is Montego Bay, Jamaica, while Switzerland and Santorini top her bucket list. As a dedicated vegetarian and culinary aficionado, she loves discovering food spots and cooking up her signature Rajma Chawal. Mint Chocolate Fudge is her go-to treat! Inspired by Victoria Holt, she believes: “Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s experience.”
Rashi Singh
Supply Chain Director
Renan Santos
Position: Manufacturing Associate
Renan and Fran, his wife of eight years, have made Orlando their home, though their roots are in Brazil. When Ford Motors closed its Brazilian factories, Renan saw it as a chance to start a new chapter and moved to Orlando, where he and Fran honeymooned. A proud Orlando resident, Renan makes the most of his annual theme park passes and can be found enjoying the thrills at Universal Studios (his favorite) and the magic of Disney World.
When he’s not exploring the parks, you’ll find Renan enjoying video games or immersing himself in action and war films. His taste in music is broad, with no particular genre as his favorite. Renan enjoys reading, but with his pursuit of a master’s degree in full swing, his book choices lean toward the academic variety these days. Family and friendships mean the world to Renan, and he’s often the host of lively balcony barbecues. His love for travel keeps his list of dream destinations growing. He dreams of catching an LA Lakers game in California and experiencing the immersive spectacle of The Sphere in Las Vegas. Known as the family comedian, Renan is always ready with a joke to keep people laughing. And when it comes to his sweet tooth, nothing beats the pure, rich taste of Chocolate Fudge!
Renan Santos
Manufacturing Associate
Rusty Aguilar
Position: Purchasing Agent
For Rusty, the perfect day includes a fun-filled date with his wife, whether they’re dining out, trying their luck at the casino, or cruising together on his beloved motorcycle. A true motorcycle enthusiast, Rusty loves the open road. He also has a knack for building things and getting hands-on with projects. He lives by Yogi Berra’s playful wisdom: “When you come to a fork in the road, take it!” When it’s time for a treat, Rusty can’t resist Penuchi Fudge, though Divinity Nut comes in as a close second.
Rusty Aguilar
Purchasing Agent
Sammy Zafra
Position: Shipping Clerk
Sammy, a native of the Philippines, enjoys spending time with his wife, Mary Jane, and daughter, Jenessa Maine. A cockatiel and two parakeets round out the family. As someone who loves the outdoors, Sammy enjoys riding his bike around the neighborhood and flying his small drone. He’s a homebody who likes working on household projects. In Sammy’s downtime, he watches Netflix and enjoys music. Two favorite artists are Pink Floyd and Tupak Shakur. Fun fact: Sammy studied architecture and continues to take courses. His favorite fudge flavor is Rocky Road — he just loves the nuts!
Sammy Zafra
Shipping Clerk
Simon Brewster
Position: Retailing Program Director
Simon, an Australian native, has called many places around the globe home. After moving at the age of four, he spent his formative years in Hong Kong before heading to Brisbane, Australia, for boarding school. There, he discovered a love for sports, excelling in cricket, swimming, and competitive tennis. His passion for adventure and culture led him to study abroad in France during college, where he majored in French-an invaluable asset in his hotel management career.
Fate played its part when Simon met his American wife in Australia. Together, they’ve built an active, sports-loving family with three daughters who thrive in soccer, tennis, swimming, netball, and dance. Melissa shares Simon’s love for tennis, and the entire family often bonds over their athletic pursuits. Simon himself played competitive cricket before becoming a dad and is an avid ocean swimmer, favoring distances of 3 to 5 miles but occasionally pushing himself to 6 or 7 miles.
Impressively, his daughters are fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, and their culinary talents fill the home with the aroma of constant cooking and baking. Simon, a wine enthusiast, has studied wine extensively, lived in wine regions in both France and Australia, and recently took a sommelier exam. His love for flavors extends to sweets-he relishes classic Chocolate Fudge and coffee-based fudge varieties. Is a wine pairing with fudge next on his list?
Simon Brewster
Retailing Program Director
Susan Luewe
Position: Accountant
When Susan is not working as an accountant, she enjoys spending her free time with her family. She and her husband love spending time at home together, especially in the kitchen, where they often cook Chinese and Italian cuisine. Susan is very family-oriented and has two grown sons, and she is also a proud dog mom to Lucy, her cavapoo.
She appreciates lighthearted entertainment and loves a good comedy-nothing too serious-as she enjoys having an escape and a reason to laugh. In her downtime, Susan also enjoys keeping her mind active with puzzles of all kinds, including crossword and jigsaw puzzles.
Susan also loves to travel and explore new places. Bermuda has been her favorite vacation spot so far, and Europe is high on her must-travel bucket list.
When it comes to Calico fudge, Susan’s current favorite flavor is Salted Caramel.
Susan Luewe
Accountant
Tina Barresi
Position: Shipping Clerk
Born and raised on Long Island, Tina is a devoted single mom of a son and daughter. A true beach lover, Tina finds her happy place by the ocean no matter the season. Summer, though, is her favorite – that’s when she’s on the hunt for sea glass. She’s traveled far and wide to feed her passion, from the shores of Virginia and New Jersey to the north shore of Long Island. But her ultimate sea glass paradise? Salem and Gloucester, Massachusetts – her personal goldmine!
Tina’s not one to sit still or stay behind a desk – she thrives on movement and energy. When she’s not on the go, you’ll find her spending time with her beloved pet guinea pig, soaking in the vibes at outdoor concerts (she’s a huge Dave Matthews fan), or winding down with a good horror flick – the Saw series is her favorite! Her music tastes are wide-ranging (just don’t ask her to play country), and when it comes to TV, she’s all about shows like Dexter, The Resident, The Office, and Seinfeld.
While she doesn’t travel extensively, Tina loves a sunny getaway. The Bahamas and Florida are top spots in her book, and she’s not afraid of a good road trip – she once drove cross-country in just four days to help a friend move from California to the East Coast! What’s on her adventure list? Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Utah.
Her favorite fudge flavor is Coconut Custard, and her go-to life motto is as straightforward as it is empowering: “If you want something done, do it yourself.”
Tina Barresi
Shipping Clerk
Tom Montoya
Position: President & CEO
Tom is a man defined by family, work, and fixing things. What drives him? Learning how things work so that problems can be solved. He loves finding the potential in everything, whether in people or the projects he is working on; he sees the diamond in the rough. Time in the military fueled his desire to learn. He embraced technology, worked in law enforcement, and became a teacher. His philosophy: “The only thing you can change on the path to success is yourself. Be willing to adapt.” Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge tops his list.
Tom Montoya
President & CEO
Vanessa Ebanks
Position: First Impression Receptionist
Vanessa adores spending time with family and friends and enjoys Sunday dinners and girls’ nights, where chatting and music take center stage. A foodie, Vanessa enjoys trying different types of cuisines and new restaurants. She craves Italian and Caribbean food (her parents are from Martinique), and her favorite place to grab a meal is Awash, an Ethiopian restaurant in Brooklyn. Vanessa also enjoys roller skating and roller blading, sewing and quilting, and taking walks along the boardwalk. The Caribbean is a go-to travel destination, but one day she hopes to visit France, the country that tops her bucket list. Vanessa lives by the words: “A positive mindset brings positive things.” As for fudge, classic chocolate her favorite flavor!
Vanessa Ebanks
First Impression Receptionist
Victoria Camilleri
Position: Customer Success Supervisor
Vicky enjoys spending time with her husband and their adorable Pomski, Nutella, a Pomeranian/Husky mix. In her free time, she’s passionate about cooking and baking. Her signature dish, Lemon Asparagus Pasta comes from a Rachael Ray recipe and is the first meal she ever made her husband.
A self-proclaimed foodie and coffee lover, Vicky loves discovering new restaurants and coffee shops. She enjoys walking, working out, listening to podcasts (The Office Ladies, The Nikki & Brie Show), and watching wrestling with her husband. She loves the beach, even in the off-season, and enjoys the salty air and collecting shells. Vicky is a fan of classic movies and likes streaming TV shows like The Office, Ozark, Breaking Bad, and her favorite: The Walking Dead. Her musical taste spans many genres, though Pop Punk Emo is her favorite. Despite not traveling much, Malta is her second home thanks to family ties.
Fun Facts: Vicky is a fraternal twin and wears a camel pendant as a nod to her last name. Chewy Praline Fudge is Vicky’s favorite…so far!
Victoria Camilleri
Customer Success Supervisor
Vir Sangalang
Position: Material Planner
Vir can’t get enough time with his adorable twin daughters and particularly enjoys when they play together! When not working or taking part in family time, eating and sleeping are his go-to activities. And, by the way, Vir will never turn down Rocky Road Fudge. His favorite quote comes from Abraham Lincoln: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
Vir Sangalang
Material Planner
Virgil Sangalang
Position: Director of Operations
Virgil spends as much time as he can with his family and cherishes playtime with his daughter. He’s a closet master chef who loves to cook. Traveling is also one of his passions. Virgil’s practicality shines through in his favorite quote: “Every problem has a solution.” Virgil can’t get enough of Cookies & Cream Fudge and Cinnamon Glazed Cashews.
Virgil Sangalang
Director of Operations
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