ACG WI: Palermo's Pizza

Laurie Fallucca joined Palermo’s in 1982. At the time, founder Jack Fallucca, son Giacomo and Laurie were the entire office staff, with Laurie handling all accounting for the growing business. Today, she is responsible for providing a comprehensive vision for the Palermo brand and the creative ability to transform fresh ideas into actionable concepts – a position that allows her to fully explore and share her passion for celebrating the Italian culture to unite and serve others. Her goal is to manage the creative process to ensure that the company achieves its strategic and financial goals, while retaining its authentic culture and heritage.

Under Laurie’s direction, Palermo’s developed “The Palermo Way,” a visual representation of its corporate culture, as well as its mission statement, which serve as guiding principles for the company’s 700+ dedicated Pizzaiolos. Laurie is a passionate champion of Palermo’s Social Mission, which reflects its commitment to caring for employees, the community and the environment. A 19-year member of TEC, she serves on the Board of Directors of Cousins Subs, on the Foundation Board of Concordia University and on the Marketing Board of the Menomonee Valley Partners. 

Robert Arne has been Palermo’s Chief Financial Officer since 2014. Prior to taking this role, he was CFO for Power Products, LLC, and also held various business leadership and financial leadership positions at Actuant Corporation. His experiences at Actuant Corporation included being a regional Business Leader for Actuant subsidiary, Hydratight, and roles including Assistant Director of Corporate Development, Operations Finance Director and Finance Leader of Enerpac. Prior to joining Actuant, he was Industrial Group Controller at Snap-on Incorporated. Mr. Arne received his BBA in accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from the University of Chicago.