Management Team
Shidan Taslimi
Co-President
The transformation of raw land and spaces into places of work, hospitality, and learning has always been Shidan’s focus. On completing the construction of the Cambria Village Condominiums in 1985, he founded Taslimi as a way to realize his desire to build top-quality, interesting, and complex projects. In the years since, Shidan has undertaken countless significant projects, and is still intrigued by the unique technical complexities that each project offers. For Shidan, the building environment offers multiple opportunities, from implementing and realizing the designs and dreams of clients and architects to cultivating meaningful relationships and creating a work culture in which individual contributions are valued.
Education
University of California, Los Angeles
- Bachelor of Science, Structural Engineering
- Master of Science, Structural Engineering
Mehran Taslimi
Co-President
Before joining his brother at Taslimi, Mehran studied structural engineering in college, in part inspired by his father, the owner of a major construction company in Tehran, Iran. On the job, Mehran oversees the meticulous planning and coordination required to take designs from preconstruction to project execution. He is captivated by the complexities of each project, the diverse team that is necessary to carry out the project, and the ultimate goal of achieving the highest quality of workmanship. Mehran welcomes the opportunity to learn what each new job presents, and never forgets that confidence, humility, and respect for all are the most valuable assets.
Education
University of California,Los Angeles
- Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering
Certifications
- LEED AP
Associations
- American Institute of Architects Allied Affiliate
- MAK Center for Art & Architecture Board Member
- Santa Monica Art Foundation Board
- UCLA Arts Board
Training
- OSHA 30
Diane Lotfi
Director, Finance
Diane’s interest in systems design and business organization brought her to Taslimi in 2016. As Director of Finance for the company, she focuses on systematizing and streamlining the documentation and billing process that supports the actual construction project. Diane emphasizes the need for clear and transparent communication with clients and subcontractors so that all parties can follow the financial aspects of a project. This requires close collaboration with Taslimi’s construction project managers, with the goal of upholding the Taslimi standard of work in all facets of the projects underway at any given moment.
Education
Golden Gate University
- Master of Business Administration
Jonathan Fanelli
Vice President, Construction
Jonathan grew up in a construction environment, with an architect father who was also a construction manager. His first major project at Taslimi was the three-year Beverly Hilton Hotel renovation. He takes a great deal of pride and satisfaction in turning a client’s vision into reality. For Jonathan, building is more than creating the tangible product itself; it is about collaboration, communication, and leading a team designed to deliver a successful project.
Education
Arizona State University
- Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies – Business & Communications
Aaron Loewenson
Vice President, Preconstruction
Aaron’s lifelong passion for construction began with Tinker Toys and Legos. He later pursued this interest in his studies. His transition from architecture to construction, from concept to building, has brought him full circle in his career. Aaron’s expertise in architecture allows him to meticulously assess design challenges and guide the preconstruction team to a comprehensive understanding of the project. His commitment to collaboration and continued partnership with the client, designers, and consultants connects high quality design with the built environment.
Education
University of Colorado
- Bachelor of Science, Aerospace Engineering
University of Minnesota
- Master of Architecture
Sean Youssefi
Technical Director, MEP
Sean’s appreciation of teamwork, attention to detail, and can-do attitude make him an integral part of the Taslimi team. He leads the construction scheduling and MEP systems coordination efforts required for large, complex projects. Sean’s love of construction stems from the sense of accomplishment that comes from delivering finished spaces where people can work and thrive.
Education
University of Southern California
- Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering
Jon Patchen
Vice President, Field Operations
With decades of experience in construction, Jon is a unique witness to the growth of the industry and a highly qualified leader in the field. On the job he embodies the lessons learned over his many years in construction. His communicative management style and genuine ardor for his work further define a career that began in Texas when a curious teenager wanted to learn the business of building. Although he has many favorite projects, he is particularly fond of those that demonstrate the intersection of complex design, materials, and installation.
Training
- OSHA 30
Certifications
- CPR & First Aid
Mike Quintero
Vice President, Field Management
The collaborative nature of the construction industry brought Mike into the fold over thirty years ago, on the recommendation of a friend. This is still his principal motivation. As an early employee at Taslimi, Mike honed his expertise on a variety of projects, the most memorable of which includes Imagine Entertainment, where long-term relationships were established with the client and architect. As a general superintendent, Mike emphasizes respect for fellow team members as key to the success of his projects.
Training
- OSHA 30
Certifications
- CPR & First Aid
Miguel Aguirre
Manager, Wood Shop Operations
With almost forty years of experience in millwork fabrication, Miguel is the leader of Taslimi’s millwork team. His mission is always to deliver work that is above and beyond industry standards. In fact, he welcomes complex designs as an opportunity to showcase work of the highest level of craftsmanship. His favorite projects feature custom pieces requiring methodical precision.
Training
- OSHA 30
Certifications
- CPR & First Aid
Kate De Leon
Director, Accounting + Human Resources
Kate joined Taslimi in 2016 as Human Resources Manager and now is responsible for both the HR and Accounting groups. She believes in addressing all matters head on, paying attention to detail, and following through consistently on all tasks, whether large or small. Kate enjoys communicating with both internal and external clients to find solutions to HR and Accounting matters, and to help the company continue to grow.
Education
University of California, Irvine
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology & Social Behavior
Certifications
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Rosa Rodríguez
Manager, Operations + Contracts
Rosa joined the Taslimi team in 2011, beginning her career in construction as an assistant to the company principals. Since then, her role has evolved to management of marketing, including the development of RFP responses and interview presentations, preparation and communication of client contracts, and close coordination with the principals on the creation and implementation of company policies and procedures related to various aspects of operations. Collaboration in a productive manner is what motivates much of her work.
Taraneh Nazari
Manager, Accounting
Taraneh joined the Taslimi accounting group in 1996 and is responsible for a wide variety of accounting tasks. She is involved in every project from commencement through closeout, always keeping documentation on track and ensuring compliance. In her daily work, she strives to implement the principles she has learned to value at Taslimi: a commitment to excellence and an attention to detail, as well as a willingness to pitch in and move projects forward.
Education
University of California, Los Angeles
- Bachelor of Arts, Mathematics
Michael Herndon
Senior Project Manager
While pursuing his B.S. in Environmental Design, Michael spent his summer breaks digging trenches and sweeping construction site floors which eventually led him to a career in contracting and then project management. Using his background in design, Michael has the ability to understand the project’s vision while building collaborative teams to ensure the successful execution of the project. One of his favorite projects was a luxury private office that houses the client’s unique car collection.
Education
Art Center College of Design
- Bachelor of Science, Environmental Design
Omeed Kiafar
Senior Project Manager
Omeed’s passion for architecture and design brought him to Taslimi in 2015. His extensive experience in project management provides him the ability to manage and lead complicated and high-end projects to their successful conclusion. Omeed’s many projects have included highly technical spaces such as screening rooms, editing and recording studios, and podcast facilities, as well as upscale offices for our elite clientele in the design, technology, law, and entertainment sectors.
Education
University of California, Irvine
- Bachelor of Science, Business Economics
- Minor, Construction Management
University of Southern California
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Real Estate Development
Certifications
- LEED AP BD+C