Hardwood Floors December 2025/January 2026

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22. Juan Marquez Technology Director RIVA Spain MIAMI, FL

23. Ilya Meltser VP Sales Operations PID Floors NEW YORK, NY Ilya Meltser has been with PID Floors for 15 years and is the VP of sales operations. Known for his hands-on problem-solving and deep industry knowledge, he is often the go-to resource for navigating challenging situations with clarity and precision. Meltser is both a LEED Green Associate and an NWFA Certified Sales Advisor, bringing a strong foundation in sustainability and wood flooring expertise to every project. In addition to overseeing operations, he works closely with the leadership team to help drive strategic growth and strengthen PID Floors as an organization. Meltser is deeply passionate about sustainability and plays an active role in advancing PID’s efforts in this space. He represented PID at the 2024 Flooring Sustainability Summit in Washington, D.C. He also regularly participates in industry panels and roundtables, contributing valuable insight and helping shape broader conversations around wood flooring, sustainability, and innovation. Above all, he is described as smart, thoughtful, a steady presence, a true team player, and an integral part of everything the company does.

As the technology director at RIVA Spain, Juan Marquez is a key contributor to the company’s growth and innovative edge. One example of this is that he developed an exclusive system for the company’s partners, allowing them to order products and access marketing materials to support their promotions.

Another achievement is Marquez’s creation of the RIVA app, which provides customers with immediate access to products, inventory updates, and other essential business information. Above all, colleagues say he is an exceptional leader, always ready to provide solutions to any team member or challenge that may arise. Deeply committed to community service, Marquez leads volunteer efforts with the Florida International University Chess Club, teaching chess to seniors to promote mental agility and social connection. Additionally, he supports the Alzheimer’s Association by participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and fundraising for The Judy Fund, with all proceeds directed toward care, research, advocacy, and public awareness.

24. Allyson Merrill Sales Account Manager Antique Building Solutions HOWARD, PA

Allyson Merrill’s professional journey began in the criminal justice field, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 2014. For eight years, she worked as a counselor in a prison setting, later transitioning to a case worker role for children and youth services.

After becoming a mother in 2021, Merrill landed on a new and unexpected career path: the flooring industry. Her lifelong passion for horses and the sense of peace she finds in barns drew her to a job ad for Antique Building Solutions, a company that procures old barns. She is now a sales account manager, overseeing current customers and assisting with onboarding new distributors and direct clients. Flooring was the first thing she dove into as the company rapidly grew in the reclaimed, engineered, and solid flooring sectors. Merrill’s commitment to community engagement started in her youth through 4-H. Actively involved in several horse associations, she continues to let her passion for horses be a central part of her life, a joy she shares with her own children. You can always find her helping with local fundraiser events and sponsorships.

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