Ethan Giffin
CEO, Groove Commerce “I've done some things.”

Groove Commerce is the brainchild of CEO Ethan Giffin, an industry expert in eCommerce, e-marketing and the dynamic technologies behind them. For years, Ethan has lived and breathed conversion rates, search engine visibility and web analytics. Ethan is regularly invited to speak at the industry's top conferences, including: Internet Retailer, SMX West, PubCon and SES.

When you're not at Groove, what are you up to?

I go to the beach, enjoy Canadian whiskey and travel.

Why did you start Groove?

To create a great boutique agency that provides excellent service.

How many pairs of shoes do you own? Which are your favorite?

18 pairs. My Black Ferragamo slip-ons.

What's your favorite social media platform?

I love Facebook because of the ability to stay connected to a large number of friends and family that I don't normally get to see due to busy schedules. But 4square is an interesting concept, the ability to locally check in and connect with your customers on a much more one on one basis. (And no, you can't share my Flickr feed with everyone).

P.J. Gill COO, Groove Commerce “I want to create a great experience for our clients and the people I work with.”

P.J. brings to Groove years of client service expertise gained from providing accounting and consulting services to a wide range of companies. A graduate of Lehigh University and a C.P.A., P.J. started his career with a Big 4 accounting firm in New York City before moving to Baltimore. After several years of public accounting, P.J. took on a consulting role focusing on business performance management, and budget and forecast development.

When you're not at Groove, what are you up to?

I like to work out. I like to run, swim, cycle, lift weights. And hang out with my wife Dorothy and the Iggy-Pup.

Which do you enjoy more, working out? Or talking about working out?

When you get to miles 8-16 on a run and you are out there by yourself and you are making up songs like "Highlandtown" to the tune of "Island Girl" by Elton John its really where you find out what you're all about.

Why did you come to Groove Commerce?

I like the entrepreneurial spirit. I came from a start-up company I saw the success of the people there and I wanted to make it for myself and be part of something.

How many pairs of shoes do you own? Which are your favorite?

Around 18. My running shoes because they keep me sane. Outside of those, there's a pair of wingtips that I really like these days. I had a pair of Cole Haan's that Dorothy made me throw out because they smelled -- I don't wear socks.

What's your favorite social media platform?

I prefer Facebook because no one follows me on Twitter. When I say something I want people to hear it. It's like "If a tree falls in the woods..." type of thing.

Mack McGee Vice President of Sales & Marketing “Don't tell me how rough the water is, just bring the ship in.”

Mack joined Groove Commerce in January 2009 to lead its Business Development efforts. Currently, Mack oversees all sales and marketing efforts as well as heads Groove's ongoing partnership with Magento. As a graduate of the University of Maryland, Mack earned a B.A. in Communications. Mack is also a three-sport coach with Baltimore County Special Olympics.

When you're not at Groove, what are you up to?

Outside of Groove Commerce there's nothing better than watching Alabama Football, the Baltimore Ravens, playing golf or hanging out at Mamma's on the Half Shell.

Why did you come to Groove Commerce?

I came to Groove because I like the industry, I like what we do and who we do it for and it's constantly changing. What we offer clients, what we do for clients and ultimately the results we see are constantly interesting and evolving.

Do you believe that you are the "Coyote" to PJ's "Roadrunner?"

You know, I am much younger than P.J.

How many pairs of shoes do you own? Which are your favorite?

12 pairs and my favorite sneakers, PJ & Ethan give me a lot a crap about. My newest? Plaid Chucks.

Why are you involved in Special Olympics?

Special Olympics is an opportunity to give back with something other than just your checkbook. It's a way to get out of the office during the week, run around, and really remember that certain things are only so important.

Heather Van De Mark Senior Designer, Design & Development “Superman does good. You're doing well.”

Heather joined Groove in October 2008 as Web Designer and grammar queen. On her off-hours, she earned her M.A. in Publications Design from the University of Baltimore. Previously, she received her B.A. in English from Cornell University. Working from all across America, Heather devotes her time to furiously designing to beat deadlines, scanning the latest typography sites and nosing through photography books.

Why did you come to Groove Commerce?

I had a huge career change. I quit my job in public relations and writing and was desperately looking for something to do in graphic design and Groove gave me a chance.

Of all your creative outlets? What is your favorite?

That's like picking between kids. Right now, design is probably the most important thing to me, but five years ago writing was. Writing, photography and design will keep cycling the top spot.

How many pairs of shoes do you own? Which are your favorite?

Oh man, I've got sneakers, boots, boots, boots, sneakers, heels, sandals, heels... this is embarrassing. Over 13. I've got a nice pair of Ann Klein black boots.

What's your favorite social media platform?

I host various blogs and websites. I like Twitter. I don't necessarily think it's as relevant or hyped up as it is but I like it. It has a purpose. Facebook is too "It's Friday night and I'm drunk! Whoo." Twitter's more inspiring.