MARIA LAURENS
Chief Executive Officer
“The true measurement of a successful leader, is the ability to listen, embrace change, pay attention to details, be respectful and honest, and most of all; practice a sense of integrity.”
Maria Laurens is the Chief Executive Officer for Roccoly, LLC, a company that she co-founded in 2020.
Previously to co-founding Roccoly LLC, Maria Laurens worked for 25+ -years in the hospitality field; she has vast experience in global sales, marketing, and business management. She has worked for Hilton Corporation, IHG, Promise and the San Diego Convention, and Visitors Bureau.
Maria Laurens is the recipient of multiple awards, a 3-time winner of the “Circle of Excellence,” a recognition granted only to those producing the top 5% sales for Hilton Americas. She was granted The Spirit Award by Hilton Corporation,” for her high level of customer service and team work. She has also been a 3-time winner of the “President Award” by HelmsBriscoe, for the top 20% hospitality sales worldwide.
Since 2004 Maria Laurens has been actively involved with Les Dames Escoffier the only organization of its kind, a worldwide philanthropic society of professional women leaders in Food, Fine Beverage, and Hospitality. Its primary focus is women’s education and, as an organization, has generated over 15 million dollars in scholarships. Maria Laurens held the global Presidency position in 2015-2016. She is currently the president of the San Diego Chapter and Vice President of the LDEI Mexico Chapter.
Maria Laurens currently volunteers for the Helen Woodward Animal Center, assisting with rescuing and the well being of animals.
Maria Laurens holds a BA in Marketing and Advertising from San Diego State University and The Advertising and Arts College. She also has multiple certifications in the hospitality field.
AARON LIPNER
Chief Technology Officer
“Strong collaboration, rapid prototyping, and a human-centered approach can make any dream come true”
Aaron Lipner is a Chief Technology Officer who works with and leads cross functional teams to create meaningful and innovative designs. Aaron believes that strong collaboration, rapid prototyping, and a human-centered approach can make any dream come true.
Aaron has worked at both large and small multi-national companies working with teams and suppliers from all of the major technology and manufacturing countries. Aaron was awarded several design and utility patents and most likely you’ve seen or used a product Aaron has worked on, from Sony computer monitors, Nokia cell phones/tablets plus their cases, to tin catchers to help make computer chips to name a few.
Aaron holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from University of California, San Diego.
SHARON TALERMAN
Director of Business Operations
“Live for what's worth dying for, and leverage technology to create the world you wish to see”
As Director of Customer Care, Sharon Talerman plays a pivotal role in day-to-day operations by building, managing, and maintaining relationships between Roccoly clients, employees, executives, and external partners.
With over 15 years of B2B experience, Sharon has also owned and operated her catering company servicing private events across the San Diego area. Her attention to detail, ability to understand and resolve issues allow Sharon to organize and support leadership effectively in their roles. Client-focused, positive, and driven, she is dedicated to developing programs to improve customer service experiences.
Assessing client needs, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluating client satisfaction are at the core of Sharon’s work ethic.
DEAN LAURENS
Vice President of Product Development
“The success of a leader comes from providing an environment for others to shine”
As a Co-Founder of Roccoly LLC, Dean took a basic concept and developed various models until it evolved into the Bulwark Herö. Dean played and continues to play an intricate part in the design, testing, and sourcing of the materials.
Dean Laurens worked for 30+ -years in the hospitality industry; he has vast experience in front office operations. He has worked for some of the largest hotel chains, such as; Marriott, Sheraton, and Hilton; and also, for smaller boutique hotels, like the Sunset Tower Hotel (formerly the St. James Club) in Hollywood, California, managing the experience to such celebrities as Tina Turner, David Bowie, Richard Gere, Bon Jovi, and others.
Dean was privileged to work in New York and abroad in London, Italy, Austria, Munich, and Japan in the fashion industry. His work was recognized by Gucci, Armani, Jordache, Levis, Bugle Boy and Turek published in magazines such as Rolling Stone Magazine, Glamour, OTTO, San Diego Magazine, and various commercials.
Through his travels, Dean was able to broaden his awareness of different cultures and other ways of living. His most fulfilling position was managing a team of ten, whereas as a leader, he positioned his team to rank among some of the company’s highest loyalty scores. Dean is a member of the elite Les Clef d’Or.
Dean Laurens currently volunteers for the Helen Woodward Animal Center, assisting with rescuing and the well-being of animals.
ROCCOLY
Our Inspiration
“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” – Orhan Pamuk
Rocco, 28, better known as Roccoly was rescued by the Helen Woodward Animal Center; Maria Laurens soon adopted him after only fostering him for two weeks. Roccoly demonstrated intelligence, character, and a genuine ability to quickly make friends and share his overwhelming love at a young age.
When Bulwark Herö became a reality, Roccoly became the companies’ mascot, and his name was the inspiration for our mission and vision statement.
Resilience
Optimism
Connecting Again
Caring
Liberate
Yes
Since day one, he has not missed a zoom team meeting and was a star at the product’s professional photoshoot.
