Advisor Bios

Stanley Rakieten – Co-founder, Rakieten Sales

Stan has had an illustrious career of nearly fifty years in executive management, sales, marketing, and distribution. His experience ranges from conceptualizing start-up companies to executive roles in Fortune 500 companies where he had P&L responsibility. Having lived through virtually every economic environment, Stan offers a wealth of knowledge and wisdom for long-term sustainable success. His ability to connect with a diversity of people, and his experience managing thousands of employees around the globe, contribute to his continued efficacy.

A 1951 graduate of Ohio State University, Stan began his career at Monsanto Chemical Company doing classified work for the Atomic Energy Commission. His next adventure was as Personnel Manager of Sucher Packaging Company, a $40MM meat processing company of approximately 850 employees. By 1958, Mr. Rakieten earned the position of Vice President of the company.

In 1964, Stan became International Vice President for Oppenheimer Casing Company, where he had full production responsibility in Australia, New Zealand, and The United Kingdom, as well as full sales responsibility for all foreign countries.

Later, Rakieten moved to Minneapolis to become President of Peters Foods Inc. (later acquired by Carlson Companies). After many years of notable leadership, in1972 he decided to take on the new challenge of management consulting. In pursuing this endeavor, Stan was offered an extraordinary opportunity that he could not turn down. As VP of Private Label Sales for Litton Microwave, he increased sales from $4MM to $64MM in four years. He later became VP, Marketing & Sales for Litton’s Commercial Division.

In 1982, Stan left Litton to assume the role of President for Interactive Technologies Inc. Finally, in 1984, Stan and his son, Steve co-founded Rakieten Sales, a company that has grown to be a leader in the plumbing supply industry. Although semi-retired, Stan continues to contribute to the prosperity of Rakieten Sales through sharing his expertise and providing direction.

Stan and his charming wife, Marilyn, live in Minnetonka, MN. Following in Stan’s footsteps, their children have all demonstrated the drive and talent required to bring them great success in their various careers.