Paul Sarzoza became the primary breadwinner for his family when he was still in high school, after the tragic death of his father. Sarzoza thought college was out of the question at that point and, as the oldest sibling, earning every dollar he could would be essential.
His mother, though, had other ideas. She worked three jobs to keep her son’s college dream alive, and Sarzoza earned a football scholarship to Northern Arizona University, where he became a first-generation college graduate and earned a degree in business management.
Today, Sarzoza is the president and CEO of Verde Clean LLC, an eco-friendly cleaning company based in Phoenix. Founded in 2019, Verde specializes in LEED support, recycling, composting and sustainable waste management. As a Hispanic American, Sarzoza’s journey to entrepreneurship was shaped by his upbringing and the challenges he faced. Growing up working in agricultural fields with his father, Sarzoza witnessed the poor treatment of workers and dreamed of managing others with dignity and respect.
“The biggest business risk was having the courage to believe in yourself to start your own business. Surrounding myself with the right people that are experts and trustworthy. Having a passion for people is the ultimate difference maker,” he said.
Sarzoza’s career path led him to the facilities industry, where he honed his expertise in critical services in semiconductor manufacturing. He progressed from local and regional management roles to national account oversight and eventually became the vice president of operations for an international organization. In 2020, Sarzoza partnered with his childhood friend and entrepreneur, Steve Vizzerra, to establish Verde Clean LLC.
Verde, which means “green” in Spanish, operates as a commercial facilities services company with a commitment to providing clean and healthy spaces. The company uses eco-friendly cleaning products and processes to support improved indoor air quality and contribute to a healthier planet. In recognition of its rapid growth, Verde was acknowledged by the National Minority Supplier Development Council as one of the 50 fastest-growing minority-owned businesses in the U.S.
Over the next five years, Verde aims to obtain Green Seal Certification for its green cleaning program, emphasizing sustainability leadership, embracing improved technology, diversifying its offerings, investing in people programs, promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, demonstrating social responsibility and leveraging Sage Sasquatch — a character symbolizing the company’s commitment to the environment — for brand awareness and engagement, the company said.
Sarzoza’s achievements have garnered national attention, with mentions by the president of the United States and an invitation to the White House.
