Finalist
Distribution
Judith A. Phillips lives at her office.
OK, she doesn’t actually live at her office. She lives in a high-rise apartment next door.
But she’s on call 24 hours a day, and since Stand Energy Corp. was founded in 1984, she’s been involved in every step of the process.
When natural gas was deregulated in 1984, Phillips saw an opportunity to create a successful new business with a vision to provide affordable energy to industrial customers and advocate reasonable rates through local distribution companies. She and her partners also saw a chance to provide alternatives to local natural gas distribution companies through bypass pipelines and standby propane installations.
Through the years, that ingenuity and a focus on customer service has been the driving force behind Stand Energy’s growth — highlighted by the company’s revenue more than doubling from 2003 to 2008.
No matter how big the company gets, however, Phillips has refused to let off the gas, so to speak. She has faced pitfalls and dangers at every step of the way, but she keeps the company focused on customer service programs like its storage program — which allows customers to buy natural gas during the summer when it is cheaper and then store it for use during the peak season — to build loyalty. Along with other programs that actually save consumers money, Stand Energy has been able to differentiate itself in the market and build a buzz around its offerings.
Beyond her work at Stand Energy, Phillips has been a mentor to women leaders. She has mentored several female small business owners through Stand Energy’s Affiliate Program. In addition to her mentoring work, Phillips is active in community charity, dedicating time and resources to groups including the Freestore Foodbank, St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association.
How to reach: Stand Energy Corp., (513) 621-1113 or www.stand-energy.com
