The DoubleClick family suffered a tragic and sickening loss last week, when Steven Wolkoff, a former employee,, was killed in a car accident in California.I had the chance to meet Steven for the first time in late 1999 when he interviewed at DoubleClick for a job on my team. He didn't have a whole lot of experience, but he had something far more memorable - sincerity -- a way of communicating that came across so genuine-- you would've wanted him on your team regardless of what you were setting out to accomplish, cause with Steve, it wouldn't have mattered -- he would be an asset regardless of the challenge. I did what anyone who had ever met Steve probably would've done and hired him. It took all of a few weeks to realize Steve's exceptional capabilities---technical aptitude in combination with human competencies -- Steve set his sights on rich media, and never looked back.
I remember a meeting in 2000 with a company we were thinking of acquiring - certainly an area Steve had no experience in at that time - but it didn't matter - I watched this young, inexperienced guy - command the respect of the entire room. If you knew Steve, this probably doesn't surprise you. Steven had a way of communicating - even and honest - which seemed to always resonate with those he came in contact with and while i am sure he may have been a bit nervous - he oozed inner confidence, the kind most never find, especially not at such a young age.
To the Wolkoff family and to Cindy and your family, my deepest sympathies go out to you.
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