The VGM Group
Updated 2:17 PM CDT, Wed July 26, 2017
Published Under: VGM News
After 25 years of dedicated service, VGM Group, Inc.’s president and chief operating officer, Jim Phillips, has retired.
Jim served as the COO since 2008 and was selected as president of VGM Group, Inc. in January of 2016. His last day in the office was May 19; however, Jim will continue to serve on the VGM Group Board of Directors.
“Jim has been a big part of VGM, and he will be greatly missed,” said Mike Mallaro, VGM Group’s chief executive officer. “Jim remains a VGM Group Board member, valued advisor, and friend to so many of us in the VGM extended family.”
Jim joined VGM in 1991 when the late Van G. Miller recruited him to start VGM’s equipment leasing business. At the time, there were only 11 associates in all of what was VGM & Associates. Jim grew the leasing business, now known as VGM Financial Services, from being the sole employee to having more than 40 associates under his direction.
“It’s been a fantastic ride, and I’ve met a lot of wonderful people,” Jim said. “I’m going to remain as connected as possible but will miss sharing in member success stories as well as providing guidance to the talented people that work for VGM. Retirement was certainly not an easy decision, but I need to keep moving and get healthy.”
With an affinity for the Caribbean and Jimmy Buffet music, Jim looks forward to trading in the wingtips for flip-flops to enjoy new experiences and adventures that await for him and his wife of 39 years, Ardith.
“This begins “Life II” as I call it, and I am incredibly blessed with my wife, four children and five beautiful grandchildren living so close. We have lots to do and see. Life is short so I need to make sure and leave some time to enjoy it.”
In his farewell email to employee-owners, Jim encouraged associates to create their own fantastic future at VGM and make sure that opportunities don’t pass by. He concluded the email by stating, “Enjoy the ride, time moves very fast, faster than you’ll ever believe. Make darn sure to love your families and have fun with your friends. It’s the best way to live.”
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