SGI Team
Welcome to the SGI Team page, where we proudly introduce the dedicated professionals behind Surface Group International. Since our inception in 1996, our team has been the cornerstone of our success, bringing unparalleled expertise and passion into the company.
owner and president
Greg Starr
Greg Starr is a seasoned entrepreneur and industry leader, renowned for his expertise in natural stone, interior design, and tile. His journey in the industry began with a strong focus on natural stone, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of materials and design principles.
In 1996, Greg founded Surface Group. Dedicated to providing high-end quality products in the realm of natural stone and tile. Under his leadership, Surface Group has gained a reputation for excellence, not only for the premium quality of our offerings but also for our commitment to exceptional customer service and innovative design solutions.
Over the years, Greg has become a respected figure in both the industry and the Barrington community, known for his integrity, professionalism, and passion for design. His vision and dedication have propelled Surface Group to the forefront of the market, making it a go-to destination for discerning clients seeking elegant and sophisticated designs.
With a focus on building lasting relationships with clients and partners, Greg continues to contribute to the evolution of the design and home improvement industry, advocating for quality, craftsmanship, and aesthetic value in every project.
Operations Manager
Elisa Morreale
Elisa is a seasoned professional in the stone and countertop industry, with a career that spans over two decades. She began her journey in 1996, immersing herself in countertop fabrication, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for the craft. After gaining valuable experience, Elisa transitioned to stone and slab distribution, a role she held for eight years. This experience broadened her understanding of the industry and allowed her to cultivate relationships with suppliers and clients alike.
Following her tenure in distribution, Elisa returned to countertop fabrication, dedicating 11 years to refining her expertise. During this period, she also explored the world of tile, further expanding her knowledge and capabilities within the industry.
For the last 3 years, she has played a pivotal role as the head of operations here at Surface Group. In this position, she leverages her extensive background in stone fabrication and stone & tile distribution to lead the organization toward innovation and excellence.
Her commitment to quality craftsmanship, coupled with her deep understanding of the industry, makes her a respected leader in the field of stone and surface materials. Her career is a testament to her dedication and passion for the trade, and she continues to inspire those around her as she successfully drives operations at SGI.
Interior Designer
Holly Sleger
Holly is a passionate interior designer with a BFA in Interior Design and transformative experience studying abroad in Paris. With eight years of expertise in the remodeling industry, she has perfected her skills in AutoCAD and creating detailed renderings that bring her clients' visions to life. At Surface Group, where she is poised to celebrate her two-year anniversary, Holly has built a reputation for her exceptional taste for high-end design and sophistication.
Her approach revolves around curating selections that resonate deeply with her clients, ensuring that their spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and authentic. Whether it's a kitchen or a bathroom remodel, her keen eye for design and extensive knowledge of tile, natural stone, and mosaics allows her to provide personalized, one-on-one service that makes each project unique.
Outside of her professional endeavors, she cherishes time spent with her husband and two children and is always seeking her next travel adventure to inspire her creativity and broaden her horizons.
Design Consultant
Stacy Dracopoulos
Although she is new to the team, Stacy is a dedicated design professional in the tile industry.
Stacy began her career fresh from the Academy of Design & Technology working at a design studio where she collaborated with clients to design custom spaces ranging from lighting and window treatments to custom bedding and high-end furniture.
Her career progressed as she joined Mid-America Tile, where she further refined her design skills and industry knowledge. Following Mid-America’s acquisition by Louisville Tile, Stacy stayed on and continued to excel, solidifying her reputation within the tile sector. Her high regard in this industry is what ultimately led to her recruitment by our team during the closing of Louisville Tile.
Stacy is eager to learn and grow within her new role. Her passion for design and dedication to client satisfaction shows in every project she undertakes. Her expertise and commitment make her a valuable new addition to the team.
Digital Marketing Director
Sergey Strelkov
Sergey has been serving as the Digital Marketing Director at Surface Group International since 2021. With over 15 years of experience in the IT sector, he plays a pivotal role in overseeing website development, implementing SEO strategies, managing product additions, and creating compelling online content for social media platforms. Additionally, Sergey ensures the smooth operation of the entire Surface Group network, contributing to the overall efficiency and productivity of the organization.
In his role, Sergey not only manages technical aspects but also lends his creative flair to content creation by authoring insightful articles that showcase Surface Group's partnerships and diverse product offerings. His writings not only highlight the quality of the materials we offer, but also enhance customer engagement, reflecting his commitment to both Surface Group's growth and its stakeholders.
With a comprehensive background in IT and digital marketing, coupled with a strong dedication to enhancing Surface Group's online presence, Sergey is an invaluable asset to the company's ongoing success, driving innovation and fostering strong customer relationships.
Accounting Manager
Ronda Owen
Ronda is the head of the accounting team at SGI, bringing over 30 years of experience in accounting to the gang. From successfully operating her own bookkeeping firm starting in 2011 to transitioning into a full-time Surface Group employee. Since joining our team in May 2022, Ronda has proven to be an asset, dedicated to maintaining accurate financial records for our team. Her commitment to excellence ensures that our clients and vendors receive the highest level of proficiency and accuracy.