Meet Rob Turnage

Rob Turnage is the Director of Operations for our sunny Los Angeles office. With his experience helping companies manage growth smoothly and efficiently, it was clear that Rob could handle the complexities of a growing agency. We sat down with him to learn more about his background, what it is like being a LA native, and some of his favorite pastimes.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born and raised in Palos Verdes, a beautiful coastal town south of Los Angeles. I have fond childhood memories going to the ocean and playing in the tide pools, which are kind of like a living science experiment. The natural ponds by the cliffs are filled with sea creatures, especially Lunada Bay which is home to abalone, sea urchins, sea hares, octopus — there’s a lot happening there.

How do you think it shaped your worldview growing up in Los Angeles?

I think growing in Los Angeles can spoil anyone because of the amazing weather. Being raised by the coast was an even bigger treat in that it was very liberating. When you look out on the ocean and see a great, wide expanse, it is very freeing. There’s no feeling of congestion or claustrophobia — it’s the antithesis of driving in Los Angeles.

I’ve left Los Angeles several time to live elsewhere, but I always come back. This is my home.

Where have you lived before?

I started college in Oklahoma where I studied architecture. I don’t think that was a good fit for me culturally or weather-wise. Afterwards, I lived in San Francisco. It’s a city I still love to visit, but living there wasn’t the same. Finally, I was in Santa Barbara for four years, and I really enjoyed living there. It’s rich in history, has a beautiful coastline, there are vineyards, and it’s a lovely place overall.

Can you tell us about your background before joining our team?

I studied architecture in college, and realized it wasn’t a path I wanted to be on after gaining real-world experience. I decided to do some soul searching and traveled around Europe for a year, which helped provide me with a global perspective. I applied those learnings to my family’s business. We were in the collision repair industry, and I helped run operations alongside my sister. After 10 years, it was becoming clear that we all wanted to try something new, so we sold the company.

My previous role prior to Edenspiekermann was helping manage the growth for an addiction facility in Malibu. We grew very quickly — we had three facilities when I joined and had eleven when I left. The founder and CEO was gaining more recognition for his work and that helped us gain momentum. That type of rapid growth comes with its own sets of rewards and challenges. I knew my contribution mattered and we were helping so many patients so everything had to run seamlessly behind the scenes. We wanted to give each of those patients the best experience to recover and rehabilitate.

What drew you to Edenspiekermann?

My interest in design always persisted from my college days studying architecture. I was incredibly impressed with the caliber of work we produced for our clients, and was drawn to our own corporate branding and digital tools.

I also wanted a new set of challenges, and it’s exciting to watch our team grow as we continue our rapid growth in Los Angeles.

Who are some of your favorite architects?

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy spending time with my close friends. I love being outdoors — camping, road trips, and traveling. I also enjoy cooking, and try to have friends come over for dinner a few times a month.

What did you cook at your last dinner party?

I made a kale and brussel sprouts salad, grilled halibut, which we paired with a chardonnay from Santa Barbara, and served some fresh bread from a local bakery. I like eating simply, and chef Ina Garten’s recipes are always my go-to.

Can you share your favorite recipe with us?

You can’t go wrong with a cucumber quinoa salad — this is how I make mine:

2 cups water
1 cup quinoa
1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded and thinly sliced
1/2 cup (about 6 - 8) green onions, sliced
1 cup Italian parsley, roughly chopped
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Sea salt to taste

Bring water and quinoa to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce to simmer, cover and cook until tender and water has been absorbed, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a large mixing or salad bowl and allow to cool completely. Then, add in the apple cider vinegar, cucumbers, green onions, parsley and red chili flakes. Season with salt and you’re done!

Are you bingeing on any shows right now?

I just finished watching ‘The Crown’ on Netflix, and I loved it. I enjoyed the historical storyline unfolding. The sets look and feel expansive and royal, as though we are gaining a glimpse of the real Buckingham Palace.

How about music — any favorite albums you’ve been playing non-stop?

I’ve been all about pop lately, so Taylor Swift’s ‘1989’ album has been on repeat along with The Weeknd’s ‘Starboy’ album. I also really enjoyed Adele’s latest album. My music tastes tend to reflect the mood that I’m in.

Can you share a short playlist with us?

Thanks for chatting with us Rob!