United Radio recognized as Honda 2023 Service Parts Supplier award winner
United Radio was one of 21 suppliers to be honored by Honda for outstanding performance in service parts that serve the needs of customers after they have purchased Honda and Acura products. Honda works with nearly 1,400 service parts suppliers in North America to provide service and accessory parts for more than 20 million Honda and Acura automobiles in operation in the United States, as well as service parts for powersports and power equipment products. For United Radio to be honored with this award as a Honda Service Parts Supplier, the company was rated on performance in quality, cost, and delivery. Service Parts awards are based on overall scores reflecting combined performance in all three categories. During a recent visit to United Radio, Mark Nicolusi, Reman Support Account Manager at Honda’s Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America division, met with UR’s Mitsubishi department, led by Steve Oliver. He personally thanked members of the division for their excellent effort in achieving the award. He noted, “The team’s dedication and continuous improvements to the process was a large contributor to the success.” This included that fact that all shipments during 2023 were delivered on time to Honda as expected throughout the year. Honda manages a national network of parts and distribution facilities that support customers by delivering high-quality service parts to Honda and Acura dealers nationwide, as well as supporting global parts operations. The full award press release can be found here.
Leslie English
United Radio welcomes Leslie English as the company’s new Communications Division General Manager. The Communications Division mission is to help people return home safely through the work of its installations, on-site field, and two-way radio repair and sales teams. As General Manager, English plans to incorporate her vast knowledge of business operations, leadership, and strategy to strengthen the division’s market share, customer service and employee satisfaction. English previously owned and operated an award-winning local Dale Carnegie Franchise that covered 23 counties in Central New York. “We will be providing creative solutions to customers to help them with their communications needs, as well as utilizing our extensive skill sets to become invaluable assets in our fields of expertise,” said English. “Most importantly we are designing a customer-centric approach to everything we do, beginning with a ‘customer destination’ experience within the division as well as a consultative approach with all of our interactions. We will be a resource both in-person and virtually, that offers support, education, and networking opportunities for new and existing clients. My team is very proud to live and work next to the customers we serve.”
Jeff Prinz
Jeff has more than 25 years of IT experience and is ITIL certified. In his leadership role at United Radio, Jeff oversees a department that includes Business and Systems Analysts, Business Intelligence and Data Analysts, Application and Web Developers, Infrastructure, Security, Technical Support, and the Digital/Marketing Departments. Prior to joining United Radio in 2013, Jeff worked for 20 years for a diverse range of industries including Manufacturing, Technology Services, Legal, Pharmaceutical, and Retail. Passionate about technology, Jeff provides United Radio services that helps the company create innovative solutions to the emerging technological needs of their customers. Back . Q&A One thing I want you to know about United Radio is:The empowerment that each employee has. It is okay to make a mistake and learn from it.Who is someone you admire, and why?A person I admire is Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke University. His involvement in organizations such as Emily K Center and The V Foundation. His accomplishments as a leader not only at the collegiate level but also with USA basketball as well as outside of basketball. His quote on being a leader: “I get a group of people who are talented to commit to excellence and to work together as one. That’s where it starts. Different talents, same commitment.What makes you the happiest at work?Working with team members to plan for what is next and how to get there. Making sure they have the tools to be successful. Watching the team learn and grow.When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:Spending time with my wife enjoying various activities such as being outdoors, playing board games, doing puzzles, playing cards or reading.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:The continued growth of the company and serving its IT needs!What are some causes you care about and why?St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as well as various charities that support cancer research.
Mark Fuller
Mark is an enthusiastic financial leader known as a trusted advisor for the CEO. A collaborative professional that builds strong peer relationships through problem solving by transforming data into information. Committed to building a stronger community by providing human services to those most vulnerable. Mark holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting and Finance from Bucknell University. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a QBQ Facilitator. He is very active in the community, serving on several boards such as the Central New York Community Foundation and McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center to name a few. Back Q&A One thing I want you to know about United Radio is:Our culture is the difference maker for any stakeholder. Leaders “walk the talk” relative to our Core Values and they are the foundation of every decision we make.Who is someone you admire, and why?I admire Arnie Rubenstein, the Chairman of our Board. Arnie is a life-long learner, humble and steadfast in his commitment to customer service.What makes you the happiest at work?Watching the growth and development of not only those in my charge but other employees throughout the organization, including my peers.I know more about this than most anyone:Even my ego isn’t large enough to allow me to answer this question!When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:Reading, thinking about, preparing for, or playing golf.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:Witnessing the achievements of the next generation of family and leaders in the company.What are some causes you care about and why?I am passionate about prevention of abuse and domestic violence of adults and children. I have a keen interest in supporting veterans and adoption of dogs.Back
Jim Fellows
Jim has over 50 year of employment at United Radio! He has held several positions during the last half century with the company and is currently Director of Technical Development, which involves training United Radio employees to get their Certified Electronics Technician certification amongst other accreditations. Also, in support of United Radio’s dedication to community and industry service, Jim serves on the Board of Directors for several local schools and national electronics trade organizations.s Jim possesses several industry-related accolades. Two that he is most proud of include being inducted into the National Electronics Industry Hall of Fame “For outstanding service to mankind through contributions to the advancement of the electronics industry” in 2012. Jim also received the first-ever Gerry M. McCann, CET/CSM/EHF Memorial from the National Electronic Services Dealers Association, “For dedication to promoting the goals and welfare of NESDA during the preceding year in 2008. He again received the award in 2019. Q&A What makes you the happiest at work?When we are recognized by a customer or dealer for the great service we provided.When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:Reading, working on my old house, and playing guitar.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:The amount of electronics in almost all new products; automotive, industrial, and consumer is increasing at a very fast rate. New semiconductors entering the market promise to make greater advances in efficiency, especially in the automotive and power industries. United Radio can service almost any type of electronic equipment, so the opportunities are endless.Why have I stayed at United Radio for 50 years?My previous job was as part owner of a small electronics service business in Oneida, NY. We ran a very ethical company, and prided ourselves in how well we treated our customers. I knew about United Radio at that time and had heard they had a great reputation. Also, I had purchased parts from them in 50s and 60s when they were in the old State St. location, and I was always treated very well at the counter. When I was offered a job at UR, it was a tough decision, but I felt in the long run it would be the right choice. After a very short time at UR, I really enjoyed the family atmosphere and how well everyone worked together. Equally important, their business philosophy meshed very well with my own. In short, just “Do the right thing”. Today that is summarized in our “Core Values”, and I often refer to it as the “United Radio Way”. I’m very proud of how we conduct business at UR, and have never regretted choosing to come here.Back
Jim Fitzgerald
Jim has 25+ years of experience in the Consumer Electronics Servicing Industry that has enabled him to recognize the importance and value of listening to customer’s needs and building platforms that lead to successful outcomes. Jim’s experience in Reverse Logistic Operations and traditional break/fix transactions provides benefits to our vendor/supplier relationships. By understanding the value of strategic planning, timely execution and effective follow up, Jim strives to ensure success at all levels of the organization. Most importantly, his leadership style supports and promotes growth within the organization, allowing our future leaders to be recognized and grow. Jim has a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from the Metropolitan State College of Denver. Back Q&A One thing I want you to know about United Radio is:Our culture. Whenever I have to make a difficult decision, I look at our core beliefs. Undoubtedly, the answer is always there and I can be proud and confident of my decision. Our greatest asset is our people, following our core beliefs ensures they are treated that way.Who is someone you admire, and why?My father. I grew up watching him interact with people. He always knew what to say or talk about that showed people that he cared. I was always impressed seeing others go to him for answers or feedback when needed.What makes you the happiest at work?Watching an employee be successful at his or her job. To see an employee’s face light up as they are explaining to you what they have accomplished motivates me to try even harder to make them successful on a daily basis.I know more about this than most anyone:If I know more about something that someone else, I am failing as a leader. My job is to make sure I communicate what I know and what I have learned to those around me so they are able to make the right decisions.When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:Spending time with family and pets. I also enjoy hunting, fishing and spending time in the woods.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:Our ability to create opportunities where one may not exist. The breadth of what we do here covers many different industries and customers. Collectively, we are always able to find solutions.What are some causes you care about and why?Make-A-Wish. I was introduced to this organization some years ago after watching a presentation on what they do. I was so amazed and impressed with what they do for these kids and their families. I was touched very deeply by this. Victory for Vets. This organization helps train and place service dogs for our returning vets. Tremendous cause and great people.Back
Keith Martin
Keith is a second-generation Martin to lead the United Radio Automotive Division, having taken over the General Manager reins from his father Doug in 2003. Since then, Keith has overseen the company’s operations in Syracuse, NY and Peachtree City, GA, working with nearly every automobile manufacturer in the country. Keith received his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Rochester and spent some time in the financial industry before working full-time at United Radio. Back . Q&A One thing I want you to know about United Radio is:How dedicated many of our employee are here at United Radio.Who is someone you admire, and why?My dad. He worked really, really, hard over the years to help make United Radio what it is today.What makes you the happiest at work?I truly love being part of the team that helps United Radio to grow, especially when we create opportunities for the people who work here.I know more about this than most anyone:What radio goes in what car!When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:Playing or watching sports.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:Potential new products like automated vehicles and batteries.What are some causes you care about and why?I have always was involved in youth sports because it taught a lot of useful skills throughout your life.Back
Arnie Rubenstein
Arnold Rubenstein is Chairman of the Board of United Radio Inc, having been with the family business since 1962. A lifelong resident of Syracuse, he received his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Syracuse University and served in Germany on active duty with the United States Air Force. His diverse community involvement spans over four decades, including service in various capacities in his synagogue, as chairman of the Syracuse Israel Bond Committee, and as president of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society, and board member of the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton N.Y. Arnold was a founding member of the Central New York Jewish Community Foundation of Central NY and a founding member of the Skaneateles Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board. Arnold was elected to the Manufacturers Association of Central New York Wall of Fame in 2017. Arnold is a member of the Longhouse Council Boy Scouts of America having been active in scouting as a scoutmaster, committee chair of troop 40, and on the Board of Directors of the Council, having received the Silver Beaver award in 1998 and elected President of the Council in 2012. Arnold has been married to his wife Libby since 1961 and together they have two children, Phil and Mara. Back
Mara Charlamb
As a member of the third generation of the Rubenstein family, Mara has led United Radio, having served as a Partner/Vice President since 1992. Mara also leads the company’s human resources division, where she is instrumental in developing and maintaining successful employee relations for the company. She also works closely with her brother Phil Rubenstein, President, to maintain the family’s and organization’s culture across all locations. Mara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, with a minor in business, from Boston University and earned her MBA from the Babson College W. Olin Graduate School of Business. She holds senior level certifications from both the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM-SCP) and from The HR Certification Institute (SPHR). Over the past 20 years, Mara has served on several boards. Currently she serves as an advisory board member for M&T Bank, and she has joined the boards of The American Heart Association and The Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY). Back Q&A One thing I want you to know about United Radio is:United Radio provides repair service to customers residing in over 145 countries. As diverse as our customers are, our employees are equally diverse. We live our core value that “Our differences make us stronger”. We continue to grow and change by valuing diversity inside and outside our organization.Who is someone you admire, and why?I admire my parents! My father is the epitome of a life-long learner. Phil and I are the beneficiaries of his teachings and leadership. My mother is the strongest, most giving, selfless person I know. Never a complaint, even when she is hurting, always there to offer support and assistance to others.I know more about this than most anyone:Me. I am the only topic I know more about than anyone else. I learned long ago that there will always be someone in the room that knows more than me. This is why we work hard to form teams comprised of the best and brightest, in every area of our business, and together we challenge the status quo, resulting in our collective growth and success.When not at work, you’ll probably find me doing this:In the summer you will find me hiking, biking, skiing, and weeding my garden depending on the season.Looking into the future, the one thing I’m most excited about for United Radio is:I am very excited that we are nearing our 100th year of business. We will reach this milestone in 2023, and I look forward to celebrating it with our United Radio family!What are some causes you care about and why?There are so many causes that I care about, and too many to list. For the past few years I have been actively involved with the American Heart Association. This is important to me because heart disease if the number one killer of women and so many people are unaware of that. Heart disease is also 80% preventable, controlled through lifestyle changes surrounding eating and exercise. I am also a supporter of the Lustgarten Foundation which is the largest private funder of pancreatic cancer research. While many diseases impact different segments of our society disproportionately, unfortunately pancreatic cancer impacts Ashkenazi Jews at a disproportionately high rate and I have lost too many friends and family to this awful disease.Back
Phillip Rubenstein
Phil is the third generation of Rubenstein’s to lead United Radio, having assumed the presidency from his father, Arnie, in 2005. Since then, Phil has overseen all aspects of the company’s operations with his sister Mara Charlamb, Vice President. Together they set the direction of the organization, holding the company’s vision.
Phil holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Rochester and worked for the Eastman School of Music as a recording engineer before returning to United Radio as Manager of the Home Office Division.
