About us.
FirsTEAManagement (FTM) was founded by David Biagini in 1981 and has established and/or managed more business improvement districts (nearly 20!) in New Jersey than another other firm or individual. FTM also boasts of its own 501c3 foundation, the Community and Commerce Enhancement Foundation (CCEF), which enables its 501c6 business organizations to qualify for grants for which they otherwise would not be eligible.
FTM also manages chambers of commerce and merchants associations.
FTM’s niche is our capability of providing comprehensive management with minimal outsourcing at favorable rates. Our specialities include event planning, journalistic publicity, social media, grant writing, and parliamentary and fiduciary responsibilities.
DAVID BIAGINI, FTM President, is the longest-tenured downtown manager in New Jersey and is also a certified NJ Main Street Manager. He is an summa cum laude journalism graduate of Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI.
LORENA LOAYZA is FTM’s on-site executive director and coordinates all programs for FTM clients. She is bi-lingual and a graduate of St. Peter’s University in Jersey City, NJ. Lorena especially creates and coordinates special events and marketing programs for FTM clients.
JOSE GONZALEZ is FTM’s bi-lingual social media specialist and manages the presence of FTM clients with posts and videos on various social media platforms.
LEONA BIAGINI is FTM’s executive assistant to the President, particularly with financial reporting for client Board meetings.
AL RUSS is FTM’s CBID Member Support Specialist. An Irvington resident, Al provides direct, hands-on support to members by addressing property needs like cleanup, lighting, and exterior improvements that keep their spaces safe and presentable. Al acts as a reliable point of contact, making sure requests are handled quickly and executed with consistency to strengthen the overall look and experience of the CBID.