Perry Mandera

In 1986, The Custom Companies enjoyed recognition as the first transportation firm to offer a full suite of shipping and forwarding services, and Perry Mandera continues to commit himself to remaining at the forefront of the industry. For instance, the less-than-truckload group, which is the largest division of the company, maintains distribution facilities in more than 30 key markets and can extend pick-up and delivery services across the country. The division also features a near 100 percent claim fee ratio. Other advantages of working with The Custom Companies include access to more than 1,000 truckload partners nationwide.

As a result of these and other efforts, Perry Mandera has earned considerable recognition over the course of his career. He earned distinction as the Italian American Executives of Transportation's Executive of the Year, and he became the youngest professional since the organization's founding to earn the honor. He also won the Leonard Schaller Businessman of the Year Award.

A socially conscious individual, Perry Mandera gives back locally and nationally by contributing his energy and resources to a host of organizations. In addition to starting the philanthropic group Custom Cares through his company, he has supported the efforts of the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Perry Mandera also serves on the boards of the Jesse White Tumblers and the Walter and Connie Payton Foundation.