Brilar Profile

Larry collaborates with our COO and leadership team to provide strategic direction for brilar, as well as creating partnerships with vendors for sourcing and delivery of assets. Additionally, Larry is ASCA-C certified, sits on several association committees, and organizes an annual charity golf outing.

Born and raised in the Greater Detroit area, Larry comes from a family of four (two sisters and a brother). “I enjoy all of the time we get to spend together. Family is invaluable. One of my biggest personal values is respect. This has helped me through the years both personally, and professionally to forge long-standing relationships.”

Luke, with a degree from ITT Tech in Chicago Illinois, currently serves as the Vice President of Branch Sales for our Detroit Market, as well as new business development for Oak Park & Livonia. Luke has previously served on the Board of Directors for the DMAA from 2011-2020 and received the DMAA Business Partner of the Year in both 2011 and 2020. He is still heavily involved and currently serves on the membership committee.

“Passion has always been a big part of my career. You have to love and believe in what you do. Passion is contagious and your co-workers and clients feel it, and feed on it. I believe in treating everyone with respect. Co-workers, clients, and everyone in your day-to-day life. Not only do people feel good when you treat them right, YOU feel good.”

“Outside of work I enjoy playing golf, bowling, and cruising to tropical destinations with family. My wife and I live in Farmington Hills, MI along with our two children, Luke and Reygan. I coach my son’s baseball team and enjoy being a cheer and dance dad for my daughter.”

With over 25 years of Green Industry experience, Bob focuses on the performance and profitability of our Oak Park, Livonia, and Grand Rapids branches. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Crop and Soil Sciences from Michigan State University and has a background in wholesale distribution and commercial landscape industries.

“Every position I have ever held has required me to spend other people’s money; something that I could not have done without integrity. Without this core value, it is impossible to lead others.”

Bob lives in the Greater Detroit Area with his family. “We spend most of our time running from soccer fields to basketball courts to keep up with Lauren’s busy athletic schedule. When there is a moment to breathe, I like to hit the links for a round of golf or escape with my family to the Dominican Republican for some rest and relaxation.”

Sofia oversees the human resources department. She works with the dynamic talent acquisition team and leadership team to recruit a happy and engaged workforce. In addition to her contributions at brilar, Sofia devotes time to volunteering and non-profit organizations. Sofia was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia and enjoys spending time with her husband and two dogs, as well as traveling to Europe and reading.

“Our core values perfectly align with my own personal values, which is one of the reasons I choose to work at brilar. I always strive to work in the best interest of everyone involved, do my best to understand others, and always remain open to growth and improvement. I take my work seriously and manage it as if it’s my personal business.”

Melina is relied upon to handle complex duties and sensitive information, and often communicates or acts on the CEO’s behalf.

Having held management positions in finance and business fields, Melina is able to tailor her skills and carry on a variety of duties.

“I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with individuals who place great importance and focus on integrity. Integrity can lead to success both professionally and personally.

If you do the right thing even when no one is watching, people will notice. If you do things that you know are wrong because they may benefit you, eventually, people will find out and they won’t respect you.”

Melina is a resident of Bloomfield Hills, MI and enjoys playing racquetball and tennis, watching football, and attending fitness classes in her spare time.

As corporate controller, Anne Lantto is responsible for all the company’s financial functions, including accounting, audit, treasury, and corporate finance. Her career spans more than 20 years in accounting, financial management, and business leadership. Anne holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting from Walsh College with specializations in tax and finance. She is also a member of the MICPA.

Anne grew up in the Upper Peninsula but now resides in the Metro Detroit area. She is a self-proclaimed dance mom and soccer mom to her three children. Anne enjoys spending her time with her kids and her husband, Eric, at their cottage in Northern Michigan. She also enjoys golfing, fishing, puzzles, and crocheting in her spare time.