By Ashley Reyes
Sergio Raphael is the SEMA Future Leaders Network’s (FLN) newest spotlight member. Raphael is the head of talent acquisition at Wheel Pros, a designer, marketer and distributor of branded aftermarket wheels. Get to know what keeps him in the industry in his interview with SEMA below.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
Sergio Raphael: Don’t chase money or it will run away. Instead, invest in those around you and it will pay dividends. Coming up in sales, I was always taught to invest in the training and development of my teams. In my current role, it’s no different. I Invest time in my candidates, and it pays back tenfold when I make successful hires for my organization.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
SR: I’m new to working in this industry but I have always had a passion for it. I was at the dragstrip watching my dad race for as long as I can remember, and it was a dream come true to land in this world.
SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
SR: I can be found running around with my wife, three kids and four dogs enjoying our beautiful state.
SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?
SR: I prepare with a 4:00 a.m. workout and meditation.
SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who it would be?
SR: Christian Von Koenigsegg. His innovation and the way he has brought his ideas to life is remarkable.
If you are a current FLN member, fill out an FLN member spotlight form. Selected candidates may be featured on FLN’s social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.