EntrepreneurThroughout his career, L.R. Jalenak has not been afraid to do “whatever it takes” to make his dreams come true. A founding member of the Society of Entrepreneurs, L.R. served from 1977 to 1990 as President and CEO, and until 1993 as Chairman, of Cleo, Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of gift-wrap, greeting cards, Valentine’s and accessory items.
L.R. retired from Cleo, Inc. in 1993, but that does not mean he has slowed down. He has served on the board of directors of several public companies including Perrigo Company, the largest manufacturer of over-the-counter health care and nutritional products; Lufkin Industries, the largest manufacturer of field oil rigs; and as a Trustee of First Funds, which is managed by First Tennessee Bank and many other business boards.
He is currently a Board member of Tennenbaum Opportunities Fund V, a registered investment fund and Adams-Keegan. He retired in 2005 from the board of commissioners of Memphis Light, Gas, and Water. He gives his time to such civic interests as the Jewish Foundation of Memphis and Arts Memphis.
Manufacturing of Christmas wrap, Christmas greeting cards, calendars, juvenile valentines, gift boxes, bags and other related products
1953
Founding Member
“‘Besides all of the attributes of entrepreneurship, such as leadership, action orientation, self-direction, achievement, creativity, etc., an attitude based on “whatever it takes” is prime to be successful. To succeed in today’s business world, whether it is working for a large corporation or in your own business, a person must have the entrepreneurial spirit of “Whatever it takes” within the boundaries of good ethical business practices.”
