As president of Sharp Payroll, Joseph Sharpe is responsible for the overall operations and direction of the company. He supervises the payroll process, markets the company, manages client relationships, and represents taxpayers before the IRS and other state and federal agencies.
In less than a year, he has grown Sharp Payroll from a handful of clients to more than 75, placing strong emphasis on adding value by offering ways for his clients to save money through tax credits and other means. He has added several ancillary products to the company’s offerings, including pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation insurance, pre-employment screening and a web-based scheduling solution.
As a Marine infantryman serving in Iraq, “Sharpe’s calm, mature leadership enabled him to successfully lead his squad during more than 85 combat missions,” as one major general noted. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and was promoted to the rank of sergeant.
Upon his return from Iraq, Sharpe graduated summa cum laude from Bradley University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. He accomplished this in just three-and-a-half years, while raising two children and working full time for two semesters.
With 700 members, Peoria’s Amvets Post 64 is the largest post in the state. Sharpe is the first commander of the post to serve for three consecutive terms, and the youngest commander in its 66-year history. He is responsible for running monthly meetings, handling membership matters and fundraising efforts, helping veterans in need, and serving as a role model for returning veterans. He is committed to serving veterans in need and their families through the annual Amvets Christmas basket drive.
In 2009, he formed Amvets Charities of Peoria, a new 501(c)3 organization, and currently serves as its president. From his military service to his professional career and work in the community, Sharpe has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in every aspect of his life. iBi