Time With The Boss: Byron Smyrniotis

Byron Smyrniotis
MOUND CITY SHELLED NUT CO.

Website: www.MoundCity.com
Industry: edible nut meats
Education: engineer
Family: daughter and twin sons

What is your mission?
Mound City’s mission is to saturate the St. Louis market with high-quality nuts and all-natural, pure nut butter. Nuts are easy, tasty treats that can help prevent diseases and maintain a healthy heart.

What was your first job?  
I was a bag boy at Maul’s Grocery  in St. Louis at Sixth and Delmar.

What was your worst job?
Tech for the American Car and Foundry Co.

What led you to your industry?  
When I thought about my career goals, I wasn’t sure where I’d end up exactly, but I knew I wanted to run a business that would challenge me and inspire curiosity. I’ve found that at Mound City.

What was the smartest thing your organization did in the past year?  
This past year was exciting for Mound City because we expanded our manufacturing to include pure almond butter. It’s all-natural and made completely from almonds. It was exciting for us to promote the almond butter because we believe in it. It’s the healthiest nut butter on the market. It’s nice to be involved in an industry that has science do most of our marketing for us!

Who is your industry role model?
My grandfather was involved in the restaurant and candy industry in St. Louis. His work ethic and passion for business have influenced my career.

What’s the hardest part of your job?
The hardest part of my job is staffing and supervising employees, although I can’t say enough great things about the people I work with.  

What’s the overall best part of your job?
The best part of any job is experiencing success, whether it’s successfully completing a small project or celebrating 98 years in business. We’ve been in business since 1917 and have learned to recognize the small wins and enjoy them.

What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs?
It’s important to be quick on your feet. Be sure you can identify problems and make changes quickly.

What’s your favorite place in St. Louis?
Outside of work? Michael’s Bar & Grill. Coming from Greek heritage, I couldn’t tell you to go anywhere else for better Greek salads!

What book is on your nightstand?
“The Reagan Diaries,” by Ronald Reagan

What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?
I believe the key to success in any industry is to listen to your customers. Getting honest feedback can be difficult, but once you hear what they need and want, you have the road map to success.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I spend most weekends on my boat. I used to fly a lot, but I don’t as much now. I also like to spend time with the Moolah Shriners and the Moolah Shrine Air Patrol, who transport children to the Shriners Hospital by air or by van.