360 Professional Services Group President and Co-Founder, Joel Colombo, was named "Entrepreneur of the Year" by the Amherst Chamber of Commerce Emerging Business Leaders (EBL) at their 1st Annual Emerging Business Leaders' Awards Gala on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Salvatore's Italian Gardens.

According to the Chamber website, the purpose of the event is to acknowledge "young professionals under the age of 39 who have demonstrated excellence through business or civic achievement in the Western New York area."

Colombo, who was honored to receive such recognition among his peers stated, "The best part about everything so far in my life is the number of full time jobs I have been a part of creating for our region. It is really great to see organizations like the EBL recognize sacrifice and commitment to our region." He also congratulated his fellow finalists and nominees saying, "no matter what awards are given out, it is all of us as entrepreneurs that are going to make change happen locally and around the world."

Recently featured in Buffalo Business First for its unique company culture that promotes both quality of work and life, 360 PSG also took runner-up in the Best Place to Work for Young Professionals category.

"Define your culture or your culture will define you," Colombo said, referring to the old adage. When asked to elaborate on how he promotes 360's culture, he replied "By always being aware of the workplace as a living entity, we are able to grow and invest in our people for the future, not just to 'do a job.' It is important to me that everyone feels a sense of ownership and participation in the changes and growth of the company itself... our people are 360 PSG."

"This is a culture I think many young people are going to look for as they develop a strong work-life balance, wanting to be part of something that promotes their passion."