Gene Ekonomi’s foray into the business world began with a jolt—literally. While working as an engineer, a shock from an undischarged capacitor left him unconscious. This electrifying experience became a turning point. “It was a message from the universe that maybe you should get out of engineering and become a business person,” Gene recalls with a smile.
“It was a message from the universe that maybe you should get out of engineering and become a business person.
Gene Ekonomi
Armed with a degree in electronics from MIT, Gene relocated to Santa Barbara, California, in 1982. Here, he immersed himself in the local business community and launched Tecfen. His early innovation included a small handheld computer for car salesmen, a precursor to mobile devices. However, it was the medical device sector that truly captured his entrepreneurial spirit.
A chance encounter with an ENT device manufacturer led to Tecfen’s first medical products. “‘Do you sell overseas?’ I asked. The president replied, ‘No, we don’t know how. We are scared of people that have heavy accents like you,’” Gene recounts with a chuckle. Seizing the opportunity, Gene became their exclusive export distributor, setting Tecfen on its path in the medical device industry.
The narrative took an exciting turn with the entrance of Gene’s son, Kerim Ekonomi, in 2010. Transitioning from a successful career as a Hollywood talent agent, Kerim brought a new dynamism to Tecfen. “I was rough around the edges and had a loud personality,” Kerim admits. “Dad comes from a quieter place. Everything he does is meticulous and wise. I’m more like the Kool-Aid man barging through the door.”
Despite initial clashes, the father-son duo found synergy in their complementary styles. Kerim focused on refining company infrastructure and branding, recognizing the limitations of their initial distribution model. He also led the efforts for innovative branding and packaging strategies that set Tecfen apart.
Under their joint leadership, Tecfen evolved from a distributor to a manufacturer of ophthalmic products. Their offerings now include a full range of surgical products for cataract, refractive and retinal surgery, as well as their very popular post-surgical sunglasses, and eye shields, which are given to patients after surgery. “We redefined the “Fit Over,” Kerim explains. “We took a product from decades ago and modernized it with a current look and better sun protection.”
Tecfen’s commitment to quality and innovation extends to simple yet crucial products like PVA eye spears and ophthalmic drapes. “It’s a simple product but an important product to get right,” Kerim emphasizes. Their focus on single-use surgical disposables reflects a dedication to patient safety in a world increasingly conscious of infection risks.
modern-looking booth.
Internationally, Tecfen thrives with distributors in nearly 80 countries. “Each country has its requirements,” Kerim notes. “We listen and cater to the needs of each client in each country, making our international presence huge.”
Reflecting on his dual careers, Kerim sees parallels between the entertainment and ophthalmic industries. “Picking up the phone and engaging people is no problem,” he says. His aggressive, respectful approach complements Gene’s reputation for kindness and honesty, fostering trusting relationships in the business.
By combining Kerim’s assertive communication style with Gene’s reputation for integrity, they have managed to create a balance that attracts and retains clients. Their ability to engage people and foster trust has been a key factor in their success, highlighting the importance of personal connections and ethical conduct in business.
“We took a product from decades ago and modernized it with a current look and better sun protection.”
Kerim Ekonomi
Interestingly, their company has adopted Wile E. Coyote as its mascot. This choice symbolizes the relentless pursuit of excellence and the innovative spirit that Kerim and Gene embody. Just as Wile E. Coyote is known for his persistence and creative problem-solving, the company prides itself on its determination to overcome challenges and find unique solutions for their clients. The mascot serves as a reminder of the tenacity and ingenuity required to succeed in business, reinforcing the company’s commitment to going the extra mile for their clients.
Gene, now 82, continues to be the heart of Tecfen. “It becomes a part of your life,” he says of the company he helped build. “I enjoy the work. It keeps me alive.” His passion and dedication, mirrored by Kerim’s vibrant energy, ensure that Tecfen will remain a cornerstone of the ophthalmic world for years to come.
