Joe Berman has had an extensive list of successes in the local business world. Since his first job as a shoes salesperson at age 15, Joe has worked in a variety of roles including project manager, general manager, marketing manager, store director, and has ten years of experience owning and operating two of his own brick and mortar businesses.
In December 2021, Joe took on the role of general manager of The Thumb, a Scottsdale BBQ restaurant and bakery located inside of a car wash and upscale gift shop boutique. The local shop has been featured in “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” and their fish tank was also featured on “Animal Planet.”
After meeting with owner Kipp Lassetter, who is a local entrepreneur and former ER doctor, and learning about the iconic local treasure, Joe jumped at the chance to lead the team. The employees all work together to create a unique customer experience, and Joe shared it was an opportunity he could not pass up.
Looking to highlight the unique landmark that is The Thumb as well as bring together community and support local businesses, Joe successfully hosted the first outdoor public market featuring local artisans and food vendors on August 21, 2022. Every Sunday from 8am to 12pm, The Thumb will host a variety of vendors selling pasta, baked goods, vegan pies, gluten-free cookies, popsicles, kombucha, honey, salsas, hummus, cold-press juices, dog treats, and more.
Joe also is proud to support a variety of Jewish community organizations and has been an active member at Temple Chai since 1988, spending several years as a Hebrew school teacher and tutor and serving on the board of directors. His daughter also attended Pardes Jewish Day School where he created the Pardes Panther Classic Bike Ride as a fundraiser for the facility.
Joe brings the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam into his work life as well, believing that serving in this position gives him the opportunity to “spread joy, lend an ear, offer compassion, and connect people.”
Utilizing his years of community involvement, local proprietorship and consulting, Joe is loving his new role and looks forward to bringing more opportunities to connect with both locals and out-of-town guests.
“Not only do I get to engage with so many locals who have been patronizing The Thumb for over ten years, but I get to host tourists from around the world, who come to taste our barbecue, bakery, and see all the exciting gifts that we have to offer,” said Joe. “The Thumb is a beacon of our community, and being the ambassador is a sheer joy.”
The Thumb is located at 9393 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. For more information, call 480-513-8186 or visit thethumb.com.
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