PHOTO BY CHADWICK FOWLER
By Melissa Larsen
From the most influential educators and business people to the biggest trendsetters and tastemakers, these locals are tops when it comes to making the Valley the best place to call home.
Most Influential Man in the Valley and Most Influential in Valley Business: Bob Parsons, CEO/Founder, YAM Worldwide
2015 Winner
Biggest professional accomplishment?
I’ve been lucky enough to have more than a few big business accomplishments. For me, the best part has always been working with great teams to accomplish things that seemed impossible at the time. With Parsons Technology, we changed how software was distributed and marketed. With GoDaddy, we built a huge brand and made domain names and Web site tools accessible for everyone. With PXG, we’re changing golf club performance through technology.
What influence do you hope to have on the Valley?
Arizona has been very good to me, and I plan to give back as much as I can. My goal is to continue building businesses here and, through my foundation, to help make the Valley a better place for all of us.
Who has been an influence to you?
My father has been the biggest influence on my life. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of him and the lessons he instilled upon me. One of the biggest things he taught me was to not fear failure. When I was struggling to get Parsons Technology off the ground, my dad would say, ‘Well Robert, if it doesn’t work, they can’t eat you.’
Fast Faves
Date night: Watching a movie at home with my beautiful wife, Renee. We don’t get nearly enough of those quiet nights alone.
Scenic spot: I love riding motorcycles and one of my frequent destinations is Bartlett Lake. It’s a great place to enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
Destination for relaxing: My favorite place to unwind is Scottsdale National Golf Club with its stunning views and fun but challenging course.
Check out Bob Parsons in Arizona Foothills Magazine Best of Our Valley 2016 Collectors Edition issue here or get the digital version here.
