River City Six: Curt Topf

Founded on an intense desire to solve problems and build long-term relationships with clients, Five Nines (www.gonines.com) leverages technology to drive business success. Five Nines has offices in Omaha, Lincoln, and Kearney, Nebraska. Curt Topf is a Senior Account Executive at Five Nines.

Tell us a little about your business.

As a leading provider of Managed IT Services, Five Nines serves Nebraska-based businesses, presenting IT solutions that will best fit their specific needs. Through our unique service model, clients experience reduced costs, accelerated growth, and increased productivity.

How did you get started in the business?

I started with Five Nines in 2010 as its 23rd employee. At that time, Five Nines was an emerging company on a fast track for growth. What originally drew me to the organization was that employees are very much valued and held in high regard, and that has remained constant to date.

Tell us a little about your family.

My wife and I have been married for ten years. We live in Omaha, NE and we have a son who is in 3rd grade. We enjoy traveling, being outdoors, and spending time together as a family.

What are you the most proud of?

My wife and son.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Early in my career I was in retail management. One of my bosses told me that if you want to earn the respect of your team, never ask someone to do something that you would not do yourself. It’s stuck with me ever since.

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd

If you could have a super power, what would it be?

The ability to read minds. I am sure I would be a lot better at my job if I could do that.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I wish I had more talent when it comes to carpentry. Fixing things around the house would be a lot easier.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?

I would like to be a rock star.

What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

Food Bank for the Heartland. Soon after I started at Five Nines, Scruff 4 Schools was created to provide a way for Five Nines to give back to the communities in Nebraska that we serve. Today it has grown into an annual November event, putting a positive spin on No-Shave November to raise food for children in the public schools systems in Nebraska. It has been amazing to see firsthand the impact that Five Nines has made across Nebraska and I feel blessed to have had a small part in it.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?

Sales Transformation by Graham Hawkins

What is your favorite movie?

Tombstone. It’s a classic; I could watch it every day and still not get tired of it.

What is your favorite TV show?

Cheers; I love the earlier season with Coach.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

Jams. Such a great atmosphere, and great food too.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Phone: (402) 817-3128; Email: curtis.topf@gonines.com; Website: www.gonines.com.