Chamber Spotlight: Michael Guthrie, Roy Wheeler Realty Co.

What was your first job?

Washington Post Paper Boy

What work tools do you use every day?

Computer, smart phone, database

What’s your go-to comfort food?

Good cheeseburger

What is unique about your organization and the work you do in our community?

We are a company of almost 100 independent contractors who truly believe they can achieve more by being part of a team.  We are 100% committed to giving back to the community as evidenced by us winning the Chamber’s “Hovey Dabney” award a couple years ago.

Why did you choose the Charlottesville area?

Went to UVA from 1971-1975, married Dottie in 1978 and stayed in Cville until 1983.  We always saw ourselves coming back to Charlottesville at some point.  When the opportunity came to be the broker and CEO of Roy Wheeler in 2005, we jumped at the chance.

What’s your favorite local activity for out-of-town guests?

UVA Sports, Starry Nights, Vineyard visits

What’s most important for the future of our regional business community?

Transportation and Infrastructure improvements particularly in the growth areas.

What were you like in high school?

Very active but not as good a student as I could have been.

What's the best advice you ever got (or gave)?

Find the right people and serve them well.

How did you choose the field you’re in?

I could make a good living while helping people make one of the most important financial decisions they make for themselves and their families.

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

Coaching my grandkids

Who do you cheer for, and why?

All things UVA.  Not only because I went to school here but because I am so proud of the character type people that make up the coaching staffs here.

Who are you grateful to, and why?

My wife.  She is truly special in that she always looks for how to make others better.  I didn’t think I could love her more or be more thankful to have her as my wife until my recent health ordeal.  She advocated for me with such ferocity but in such a gracious manner.

What’s your most prized possession?

My faith in God and the family with whom I have been blessed.  I love my wife, my kids, their spouses and now 7 wonderful grandchildren.