William Shafer, 39
Owner & Culinary Director | Lucky Slice Pizza
What is one thing you’re most proud of accomplishing at work in the past year or in your overall career?
I am very proud to have helped build a retail food operation that no longer depends on constant owner oversight. Early on, I worked long days and was on call around the clock. Today, the systems we have in place and the teams we have been able to develop allow more time to focus on consistent quality, operational growth and customer loyalty that has lasted nearly 14 years.
What’s after 40? What do you see in your future?
The next chapter for me will be about balance. Through the early years, I thought building the company required being present around the clock — and perhaps that level of immersion was necessary at the time. As I approach 40, I hope to continue to grow the business by focusing on strong systems and developing people, while still creating space to be more present with my family.
