NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Meet DeNae Krzyzanowski, VP and Part-Owner of Master Machine
Welcome to EFBC, DeNae! Can you tell us a little about what you do and how you got to where you are now?
I’m Vice President and part-owner of Master Machine, a company my dad started with two partners. I actually went to school for interior design and worked in that field for about six years. I eventually got what I thought was my dream job, working on high-end hospitality and restaurant projects—but the work environment was incredibly taxing. I burned out.
Around that time, my dad had an opening for a purchasing position. He never pressured me to join the business—he always wanted it to be my choice—but it ended up being a good fit. I started about eight and a half years ago and have done just about everything: from project management to front desk. Over time, I worked through every office role.
During COVID, our front office team retired all at once. I hired and trained an entirely new team. That’s also when I became a 50/50 owner with my dad. These days, I’m doing everything from hiring and HR to purchasing, special projects, finance, and managing our tenants. I even rebuilt our website recently—we don’t have a marketing person, so I take that on too.
What do you enjoy most about your role now?
I really like the variety. Every day is different. I also love building things—whether it’s teams, processes, or infrastructure. I’ve always wanted to own something of my own, and even though I didn’t start Master Machine, I take pride in being part of its next chapter.
How did you first hear about EFBC?
I was introduced to EFBC years ago while getting my master’s in entrepreneurship at DePaul. I even went to an event, but at the time, I felt like I couldn’t commit to something so involved. More recently, I reconnected with Liz at a women in manufacturing event, and she invited me to the EFBC Gala. I met several board members that night who had all been involved for years and only had great things to say.
The conversations really resonated—especially the ones around family business dynamics and financial decisions. I realized I wasn’t alone in facing those things, and I wanted a group where I could share openly and get support from people who understand.
What drew you to join?
I wanted a place where I could build real relationships. I’m used to groups where you’re expected to network, impress, or pitch yourself. EFBC felt different—more personal. A space where people are honest and invested in each other’s growth.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love anything outdoors—hiking, kayaking, biking, whitewater rafting. I’ve gotten into rock climbing recently, too.
Welcome to EFBC, DeNae!
NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Meet Stephanie Victor, Marketing and Merchandising at Specialty Store Services
Welcome to EFBC, Stephanie! Can you tell us a little about what you do and how you got to where you are now?
I’ve been at Specialty Store Services for over 30 years. I’ve done a bit of everything. I started in customer service, moved up to call center manager, and eventually transitioned into merchandising and marketing. That’s where I’ve been for the last 20 years. Today, I help design new products, manage pricing, oversee our catalog, and lead website updates. I’m also working on a full website redesign and back-end transition that’s launching soon.
What do you enjoy most about your role now?
I really love designing products and coming up with new ideas for retailers. It’s always a bit of trial and error—sometimes it takes years for a product to really hit—but I enjoy the creative side. I also like attending trade shows, seeing what competitors are doing, and keeping an eye on trends in the industry.
How did you first hear about EFBC?
My brother, Eric, has been a member for over a decade. He’s been encouraging me to join forever, but for a long time, my kids were young and I didn’t feel like it was the right fit. I’m not an owner, just an employee, so I wasn’t sure if EFBC was for me. I also wasn’t ready to step outside my comfort zone.
Now, both of my kids are in college and I realized this is the perfect time to do something for myself. I wanted to push myself a bit, get out of my routine, and start thinking about the next chapter of my life.
What drew you to join?
I’ve always been a bit hesitant to put myself out there, but I felt ready. I went to dinner with my Forum and then attended my first full meeting a couple of weeks ago. Everyone’s been so welcoming and supportive. My Forum is all women, and it’s been great to connect with people who have different perspectives, especially since most of them are owners. It’s a safe space, and I already feel like I can be honest and myself.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I play pickleball, I love walking, and I’ve been trying to figure out my next hobby. I recently became an empty nester—my son just moved downtown and my daughter is spending the summer in Israel—so I have a lot more free time. I’ve always been curious about creative things like pottery or even trying out carpet tufting. I did pottery years ago and really enjoyed it, so I might get back into it. I’m still exploring!
Welcome to EFBC, Stephanie!
EFBC Member President’s Message:
Transition and Important EFBC Updates
Dear EFBC Community,
This is my final letter as President of the EFBC. My term will be ending on June 30th, and we are transitioning to the next board, and our next President, Joel Spencer.
I would like to sincerely thank all of the people who I have worked with in my term as President, including: My fellow board members, who have volunteered their valuable time to this organization. Our amazing staff, who work tirelessly to make the EFBC run successfully. And all of our members, who drive the culture of the EFBC and make the organization into the community that we all love.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the board and as President, and I would encourage any of you to give it a shot. I learned a lot and met many members that I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Looking forward to the next fiscal year, I’m excited to share some updates and initiatives that we have been building together.
Prospect Forum Launch – First Session August 7
We’re introducing the Prospect Forum, a bi-monthly opportunity for qualified business owners to experience an EFBC Forum firsthand.
The first session will take place on Thursday, August 7. These gatherings give prospects a true look into what EFBC is all about by sharing real stories, engaging in open conversation, and connecting with current members.
If someone comes to mind who would benefit from being part of EFBC, please send their contact information and event interest to liz@myefbc.com.
Event Access Updates To maintain the trust and openness that make our conversations meaningful:
- Fireside Chats and Roundtables are now exclusive to EFBC members
- Signature Events will continue to welcome prospects and guests
Launching EFBC’s Business Curriculum
We’re excited to introduce EFBC’s new Business Curriculum, a learning series created for next-generation business owners and leaders who are stepping into ownership and leadership roles.
This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between operational knowledge and the broader challenges of business ownership. Topics will include strategic planning, financial literacy, HR and legal compliance, leadership development, digital transformation, and more. Sessions will feature expert instruction from our strategic partners.
We’ll share more details and session dates soon. We’re looking forward to launching this new chapter in EFBC education.
This update allows us to protect the intimacy of our core programming, while still creating space to introduce new people to EFBC through larger events.
Hivebrite Expanding to Employee Members
This summer, employee members at your company will gain access to Hivebrite, giving them the ability to register for events, connect with peers, and engage with EFBC resources more directly.
We encourage you—and your teams—to stay active in the platform: post in the live feed, share insights and resources, and continue building the strong, connected community that makes EFBC special.
Membership Renewal As always, we invite you to renew your EFBC membership and continue investing in your growth and this community. Renew Your Membership
Thank you for the opportunity to serve this community, and for the energy, insight, and care you continue to bring to EFBC. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and excited for what’s next.
With appreciation,
Darrin Shillair
EFBC President 2024-2025
EFBC Member President’s Message: Farewell Darrin and Important EFBC Updates
Dear EFBC Community,
This is my final letter as President of the EFBC. My term will be ending on June 30th, and we are transitioning to the next board, and our next President, Joel Spencer.
I would like to sincerely thank all of the people who I have worked with in my term as President, including: My fellow board members, who have volunteered their valuable time to this organization. Our amazing staff, who work tirelessly to make the EFBC run successfully. And all of our members, who drive the culture of the EFBC and make the organization into the community that we all love.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the board and as President, and I would encourage any of you to give it a shot. I learned a lot and met many members that I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Looking forward to the next fiscal year, I’m excited to share some updates and initiatives that we have been building together.
Prospect Forum Launch – First Session August 7
We’re introducing the Prospect Forum, a bi-monthly opportunity for qualified business owners to experience an EFBC Forum firsthand.
The first session will take place on Thursday, August 7. These gatherings give prospects a true look into what EFBC is all about by sharing real stories, engaging in open conversation, and connecting with current members.
If someone comes to mind who would benefit from being part of EFBC, please send their contact information and event interest to liz@myefbc.com.
Event Access Updates To maintain the trust and openness that make our conversations meaningful:
- Fireside Chats and Roundtables are now exclusive to EFBC members
- Signature Events will continue to welcome prospects and guests
Launching EFBC’s Business Curriculum
We’re excited to introduce EFBC’s new Business Curriculum, a learning series created for next-generation business owners and leaders who are stepping into ownership and leadership roles.
This curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between operational knowledge and the broader challenges of business ownership. Topics will include strategic planning, financial literacy, HR and legal compliance, leadership development, digital transformation, and more. Sessions will feature expert instruction from our strategic partners.
We’ll share more details and session dates soon. We’re looking forward to launching this new chapter in EFBC education.
This update allows us to protect the intimacy of our core programming, while still creating space to introduce new people to EFBC through larger events.
Hivebrite Expanding to Employee Members
This summer, employee members at your company will gain access to Hivebrite, giving them the ability to register for events, connect with peers, and engage with EFBC resources more directly.
We encourage you—and your teams—to stay active in the platform: post in the live feed, share insights and resources, and continue building the strong, connected community that makes EFBC special.
Membership Renewal As always, we invite you to renew your EFBC membership and continue investing in your growth and this community. Renew Your Membership
Thank you for the opportunity to serve this community, and for the energy, insight, and care you continue to bring to EFBC. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and excited for what’s next.
With appreciation,
Darrin Shillair
EFBC President 2024-2025
Cray Kaiser White Paper:
Essential Steps to Getting Your Business Ready for a Merger or Acquisition
Preparing to sell your business is a complex process that requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. From getting your financials in order to assembling the right team of advisors, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition.
In this video, Deanna Salo, Managing Principal at Cray Kaiser, shares key insights on what business owners need to consider before an acquisition or merger, helping them maximize value and successfully navigate the journey to their next chapter.
Key Points covered:
- M&A Trends: Business owners are either passing companies to family or selling to third parties (often private equity).
- Preparation Matters: Start early, get financials and processes in order.
- Financial Readiness: Audits and documentation boost credibility for buyers.
- Organizational Clarity: Have a structured leadership chart and clear roles.
- Advisory Team: Lawyers, bankers, and wealth advisors are crucial.
- Valuation Strategy: Market demand, not just retirement goals, determines business worth.
- Confidentiality: Use NDAs before sharing financial info.
- Letter of Intent (LOI): Clearly outline deal terms (price, structure, payment).
EFBC President’s Message: Keep Calm and Persist On
Dear EFBC Members,
I am back with another themed letter, and this time I am thinking about Persistence.
I often feel in my business that my efforts aren’t working, and we’re not making enough progress on our goals. As owners, we are all too familiar with the days where it feels like every effort is hitting a wall, with no immediate results in sight. These days can be discouraging, but they are part of the larger journey. Success isn’t measured by the wins of a single day; rather, it comes in chunks, often appearing when we least expect it.
It’s easy to become impatient when we don’t see instant results. However, persistence is what separates those who build lasting businesses from those who give up too soon. By continuing to put in the effort day after day—without immediate reward—you are laying the groundwork for those eventual “chunks” of success. It’s the accumulation of small, persistent efforts that leads to significant breakthroughs.
As leaders, we must remind ourselves that the road to success isn’t linear. The key is to stay focused on the long-term vision, even when daily progress seems minimal. The challenge is to remain committed to your goals, and trust that persistence will pay off, as it always does. In time, the small efforts compound, and the big wins start rolling in.
The EFBC provides a unique and critically important environment for persisting through the lulls where it feels like your efforts are “two steps forward, one step back”. Our forums and the broader organization are full of leaders who have “been there”, can ground our individual impatience in wisdom, and provide the encouragement needed to Persist.
I wish you all strength in your Persistence through your business and personal challenges faced every day. As the recent recipient of a few step-change chunks of progress, it ultimately can pay off.
Warm regards,
Darrin Shillair – EFBC President 2024-2025