Crystal is a dedicated and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) with over 13 years of expertise in the design industry. She started with the Backen & Backen interiors department and later moved into operations and compliance. For over 24 years, she has developed a wide range of experience in business logistics, operations, compliance, project management, hospitality, event design, marketing, real estate, property management, and small business ownership. 
She is known for her communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, adaptability, intuition, and critical thinking strengths. Her superpowers are strategic thinking, negotiation, and leading with integrity and ethics. She serves on the Firm's Board of Directors and has successfully contributed to its senior leadership team and growth within operations, culture, compliance, and licensing. Having earned several professional credentials from the New York Institute of Art & Design (NYIAD), an active notary public with the State of CA, Crystal has found that her wide range of skills and abilities across various areas has played a pivotal role in her success. 

Crystal's commitment to strategic thinking extends beyond her professional life; she also advocates for public school access to magnet educational programs. Crystal has served on a local Napa Valley school board for over 9 years, where she regularly participates in volunteer work and community involvement to raise the funding required to provide students access to learning through an arts integration magnet program. She has witnessed the significance of nurturing and celebrating creative abilities in the design industry and desires the same opportunities for her children. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, family, and friends. They love to travel, go on walks, or stay in for a fun game or movie night at home, which helps them maintain a well-rounded and balanced lifestyle.

Connecting with Crystal can be done via email at colivares@backenarch.com.