How lucky I am that Bob Goldberg has been a huge part of my extended office technology industry family.
When I joined The Cannata Report to partner with Frank 11 years ago, it won’t surprise anyone that, at first, it was daunting to me to work with my father, let alone someone regarded as an industry icon. I was fortunate to have had trusted advisors who helped me navigate my path from day one, including the inimitable Bob Goldberg.
Bob Goldberg’s influence in the industry is unparalleled. His consummate professionalism, unique ability to forge key relationships and alliances, and unmatched industry knowledge and expertise have earned him a place on the industry’s Mount Rushmore. His contributions have not just benefitted the industry, but have also inspired many, including myself.
At the 2017 Gala, CJ , Carol, and Frank Cannata, presented Bob with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
How fortunate am I to have Bob as a go-to for advice and counsel? He has always been there for me, not just as a mentor, but as a friend, whether I needed guidance navigating a family business or the office technology industry. Before writing this, I reflected on our conversations over the years.
Bob’s advice, always provided with a generous heart, was not always easy to hear, but it was always what I needed to hear. Several will forever stand out as pivotal as his feedback left me with rules to live by at work and in my personal life. He has a rare ability to guide you on how to solve complex situations while coaching you to learn how to enhance your skill set and manage more effectively. Bob has given me the best guidance, and I’ve benefitted from his wise counsel.
Bob’s contributions as the emcee of The Cannata Report’s Annual Awards & Charities Gala are immeasurable. Most of you will know Bob as our Gala’s emcee extraordinaire. He is our Johnny Carson, Billy Crystal, and Steve Martin all rolled into one. He’s been at the microphone for us throughout my tenure at The Cannata Report, and his signature wit makes the evening so memorable. Bob has a unique talent for entertaining and engaging our guests, making the Gala a truly enjoyable experience. After all, Bob has a special talent for roasting our guests and having them enjoy it, a rare talent few possess.
Bob’s contributions to the Gala extend far beyond the stage. He has been a key collaborator, working closely with my team as we’ve transformed our Annual Awards & Charities event into a dynamic multi-media production that mirrors the evolution of the office technology industry. His involvement has been invaluable at every step, and the Gala wouldn’t be what it is today without him. After all, who else would go through a wall for us (ok, it was made of paper and not really a wall, but the sentiment remains the same).
When I first entered the business, Bob generously shared his time and advice, a testament to his friendship with my father. I was fortunate to benefit from their bond. However, our relationship has evolved over the years, transcending the professional. Today, I am proud to call Bob a mentor and dear friend and I wish him only the best as he moves onto the next stage of his life.
