OUR PEOPLE
Our people inspire and grow our company every day. Our teams are driven, experienced, and remain passionate about who we are and what we do. We represent value and quality within our products and at every customer touchpoint. We trust in the process and evolve with clear and concise communication. All of our employees have a voice, and by working together, we exceed client expectations and promote innovative design. Our people are the true key to our success.
DIRECTORS
Bob Bakes
Co-Founder & HEAD OF DESIGN
Bob, Head of Design, calls on his years of international design expertise and his former role as owner/operator of Bakes & Co., a successful kitchen design studio with locations in central London and New York. Bob’s extensive interior design background and superior project management skills have directly contributed to the overall success of Bakes & Kropp Fine Cabinetry.
Paul Kropp
Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer
Paul’s 30 years of experience in master woodworking helped him become a leading millwork expert and cabinetry builder in the U.S. Paul’s former brand, Kropp Woodworking, produced custom, luxury kitchen cabinets, furniture, and countertops. Kropp Woodworking set the foundation for Bakes & Kropp and created a lasting partnership between Bob and Paul.
Mike Romska
Director of Operations
Mike brings over 25 years of management experience to Bakes & Kropp. He ensures daily functions across the workshop and production team are operating efficiently. He strongly believes in the value of people and uses staff feedback to strengthen our internal processes.
Joyce Malavé
Director of Sales & Marketing
Joyce’s creative background has become the foundation of her successful marketing strategy for 12+ years. She brings extensive knowledge in the area of business development and is consistently seeking cross-marketing opportunities with like-minded brands and home professionals.
Shannon Stein
Director of Accounting & HR
Shannon brings nearly 25 years of accounting expertise to the team. She continually evaluates the accounting processes while ensuring that transactions comply with necessary policies. Shannon’s team appreciates her genuine nature and strong communication tactics.
DESIGNERS & ENGINEERS
Led by Bakes & Kropp’s guiding principles of functionality, aesthetics, and quality, our dedicated team of design professionals conceptualize elevated kitchens to be enjoyed for decades to come.
Bob Bakes
Co-Founder & Head of design
As Head of Design, Bob works to fuel and energize our design staff utilizing his years of knowledge and expertise. Bob encourages innovative, out-of-the-box kitchen design.
Ellen Schott
Senior Designer
NEW YORK CITY
Ellen has over 10 years of experience in residential home and kitchen design. Her work has been featured in luxury homes, design showcases, and HGTV. Whether designing for contemporary or classic spaces, Ellen’s attention to detail produces truly exquisite results.
Jonathan Phipps
Senior Designer
New York City
With years of design experience in the NYC metro area, Jon brings a strong understanding of materials, finishes, and appliances. His inviting approach to design fosters collaboration, while his background in architecture and project management equips him to deliver innovative solutions for his clients' needs.
Guillaume Dupré
Senior Designer
The Hamptons
With more than two decades of interior design experience, Guillaume brings a plethora of unique design elements to any space. His jovial personality and French flair add to every stage of the client experience. His work has been featured in major publications, deeming him one of the most sought-after kitchen designers in the Hamptons.
Mary Dimichino
Senior Designer
The Hamptons & LONG ISLAND
Mary is one of our most requested home designers. Specifically, her designer kitchen portfolio allows her to be the choice of many industry professionals. Mary brings her easy-going approach and in-depth knowledge to every project, big or small.
Sherry Gossett
Senior Designer
Long Island
Sherry brings over 20 years of award-winning kitchen and bath design experience to the team. As Program Chair for the NKBA Metro New York Chapter, she develops inspiring programs for industry peers and the next generation of designers. Known for her integrity, personal touch, and client-first approach, Sherry builds lasting relationships and ensures every client feels valued.
Jonika Ruz
Design & Development Coordinator
New York
Jonika holds over 9 years of design experience with an accomplished portfolio and featured work in national publications. She works to continue her education and training, receiving additional certifications in color, material, and finish.
Amanda Napier
Senior DesigneR
PALM BEACH
A Louisville native, Amanda launched her interior design career in 2000 and created a name for herself in defining the art of the kitchen. She joined our team of designers with a strong background in cabinetry and a passion for modern kitchens.
Jill Greene
Senior Designer
Palm Beach
With over 25 years of experience in interior design and cabinetry, Jill blends creative vision with technical precision and construction expertise to craft spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. A graduate of the New York School of Interior Design, she brings a layered perspective shaped by running her own firm and leading projects across the Northeast and South Florida.
Justin Sharer
Senior Designer
Plymouth & Bay Harbor
An award-winning kitchen design expert, Justin brings over 18 years of experience and talent to Bakes & Kropp. Justin is passionate and perceptive, providing top-tier service to his clients while bringing their visions to life.
Jeff Isotalos
Lead Engineer
Jeff brings 13 years of engineering experience to Bakes & Kropp. With industry-leading software, he translates designer drawings into production-ready blueprints.
Nick Lemanski
Engineer
A former sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps with mechanical and electrical engineering experience, Nick exhibits leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
LEADERS
At our workshop in Mount Clemens, Michigan, our team of passionate craftspeople work to manufacture your cabinetry with high-quality materials and attention to detail. What sets our craftsmanship apart are the team’s refined skills and high degree of professionalism. We take pride in our work and are committed to achieving perfection with every project.
Pablo Porras
Field Project Manager
With over 20 years of construction experience across the U.S., Pablo supports an elevated level of project planning, alongside managing our in-house installers.
Jaime Lancaster
Shop Floor Manager
Jaime has a combined 22+ years of experience managing specialized teams and ensuring the highest quality in manufacturing.
Amy Jones
Purchasing Manager
Holding a true passion for industry, Amy brings 8 years of relevant experience in purchasing and inventory management.