Name: Darlene A. Negrotto
Title: CEO
Company: Vulcan Park Foundation
Education: BS Louisiana State University
Age: 48 (circa 2004)
Residence: North Shelby County
Family: Married to Foster Smith
Car you drive: Maxima
Your earliest memory of Vulcan: Growing up in New Orleans, I was familiar with the decorative cast iron work that abounds there, but the thought of a statue made of cast iron was beyond my ability to comprehend. One summer vacation, my parents made a point of driving through Birmingham to allow me, and the entire family, the opportunity to visit and appreciate this impressive statue. I was totally awestruck, and Vulcan has held a special significance to me ever since.
Number of times you’ve climbed to the top of Vulcan: Only once so far, but a pair of running shoes will be in my office and I hope to climb the stairs to the overlook every day.
Year started in business: 1978
Reason for choosing profession: The hospitality industry is all about people coming together to share, learn and enjoy themselves. Watching people come together to make the most of life is particularly rewarding to me.
Career-making event: When I gave up my original career plans and post graduate studies to accept a management position with Ruth’s Chris Steak House. I’ve never regretted that decision.
Largest event so far: In terms of attendance it would probably be a wedding reception for 900. In terms of significance, it would certainly be any dealing with political dignitaries, such as presidents, presidential candidates, foreign heads of state.
Favorite event organized by yourself: I organized an event for a major beverage company to launch a new spirit. Attendees included the top New Orleans area restaurateurs at the time. Being in a room with so many successful, creative restaurateurs, with diverse styles and approaches to food preparation, was awe inspiring to me.
Dream event: That’s a tough one, but I see Vulcan, stars, great food, entertainment and fireworks.
Favorite event organized by someone else: Glorious Foods out of New York did an event a number of years ago for MOMA that included a seven-course meal for more than 1,000 people. Absolutely the height of sophistication.
Guiding business principle: My guiding principle is derived from the golden rule - to be respectful of other people’s opinions and differences, and to strive to find common ground.
Mentor: I have had the good fortune of having on my governing boards over the years some of Alabama’s top business leaders. Additionally, the Birmingham Chapter of Executive Women International provided a tremendous environment that promotes professional development.
Best way to keep competitive edge: Pay more attention to what you’re doing than what your competitors are doing.
Yardstick of success: Exceeding customers’ expectations
Biggest challenge: To never become complacent but instead always seek to improve.
Like best about job: The honor of being entrusted with Birmingham’s beloved landmark.
Goal yet to be achieved: To help further the truth about the Birmingham region, that it is a great place to live or visit.
Most important lesson learned: The only thing constant is change.
Word that best describes you: According to my husband, indefatigable
Three greatest passions: Fine food and wine, good health, travel
Pet peeve: People who fail to understand that limitations are often self imposed.
Dream dinner party: Aristotle, Einstein and Stephen Hawkings, with Julia Child helping me in the kitchen.
First choice for a new career: I cannot imagine anything better. If there is, I’d be interested in hearing about it!
Favorite movie: “The Year of Living Dangerously” - it has all the important elements - political intrigue, exotic location, well drawn characters, and a very young Mel Gibson.
Favorite restaurant: La Provence in Mandeville, LA
Retirement fantasy: To work (part time of course) at the Phi Phi Island Village Resort and Spa off the coast of Thailand.
from http://birmingham.bizjournals.com/birmingham/stories/2004/03/22/story4.html
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