Craft Talks

Mike Stark

Mike has a BS from California State University, Long Beach, and executive certifications in Supply Chain Management from the University of Tennessee and MIT.   Mike also attended the Leadership at the Peak course at the center of Creative Leadership in Colorado Springs.

Mike began his career with the Los Angeles based Von’s Companies, Inc. holding roles in human resources and retail operations.  Following Vons, he spent thirteen years in various areas of executive responsibility for Exel plc, a London, England based global supply chain solutions company holding a number of executive roles in operations; leading the technology and non-foods retail sectors; and responsibility for human resources for the Americas and much of Europe.  Mike has also served on a number of boards of directors; most recently on the Board of Directors of Chatsworth Products, Inc., a California based global manufacturer in the telecommunications industry.  At CPI Mike was the chair of the Executive Development and Compensation Committee.

Mike recently retired as COO of American Financial Network Advisory Services, LLC, a full service wealth management firm working corporations and their executive management teams in devising and executing wealth management strategies that increase the valuation of their firm. 

Mike is also a Reserve Commander and hostage negotiator with the Redondo Beach Police Department and has been recognized as the Reserve Police Officer of the Year for the State of California.  He has co-authored two books; one on the history of the Redondo Beach Police Department and the other on the history of Vons Grocery Company.

Mike, Tracy and their four adult children and their families, including 3 grandchildren reside in So California.

Jason Owens

Jason Owens is a 8th generation native of Southern California, where his Great….Grandparents arrived to the Los Angeles in the early 1800s.  He works in the Dental industry serving dentists in the success of their private practices.  Jason also serves as a board member of the Children’s Dental Center of Greater LA, and the Friends of Banning House Museum.  He prides himself in practicing service leadership in all he does.

In his spare time, Jason enjoys sailing offshore races, studying California history and spending time with he’s wife Joni, and two daughters Reilly and Ruby.