Amanda Parrish, 32

On a daily basis, Amanda Parrish tries to keep in mind one of best business lessons she’s ever learned: “If you always have the same opinions as your manager or boss, one of you isn’t worth the salary.”

As Fawley Bryant Architecture’s director of business and marketing, Parrish works closely with firm leaders Steve Padgett and Stu Henderson. “I learned quickly that I can’t nod yes and agree with them,” she says. “I did used to be, ‘Yes, yes, yes, whatever you say.’ As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized I’m at this table for a reason. I’m going to positively and kindly say what I think. It’s my responsibility to guide them, and I feel lucky that they listen to me.”

Parrish’s responsibilities at the firm, which has offices in Sarasota and Bradenton, run the gamut and include operations in accounting, financial forecasting and administration. She has worked for the firm for three years, and during that time Parrish has learned something every day about her job, the industry or the community. “That’s what makes it interesting,” she says.