Since 1998, Mr. Valdez has managed personal investments and businesses. During this period, he founded an internet solutions and web design company, bought a participation and led a successful turnaround of a pumping supplies company, bought and reactivated a 200 acre coffee farm in El Salvador, planted an 1800-vine vineyard in California and is in the process of establishing wine distribution under the Caro's Ridge label, invested in a Maquiladora in El Salvador and participated in a turnaround of a wholesale distribution company in LA. Mr. Valdez also makes real estate investments in California and El Salvador, as well as manages a portfolio of personal financial assets. Mr. Valdez has also done strategy consulting work on a contract basis with major corporations such as Kimberly Clark and Olin Corporation through his association with Redding Consultants of Enfield, CT., as well as advising small company principals in the conduct of their business.

Responsibilities included design, engineering, sourcing and distribution of over $250 Million in promotional toys, premiums and materials for major corporate clients. He managed the relationship with the company's largest customer (RSI, the sourcing organization for Burger King) as well as a a network of over 40 Chinese companies involved in contract manufacturing of the company products. As part of his responsibilities, he supervised 80 employees in California and 50 employees in Hong Kong, China, travelling extensively in China, Taiwan and Vietnam. He was also responsible for companywide initiatives to streamline processes and increase productivity, which were instrumental in facilitating Equity Marketing's growth in revenues of 30% per annum during his tenure.

Management Consulting services to Fortune 500 companies in a wide range of industries.

Management Consultant with major international firm, delivering strategic analysis and advice to Fortune 500 companies in a wide range of industries.