vladshmunis We at RingCentral are thrilled that Ernst & Young has named our CEO, Vlad Shmunis, a finalist for the 2011 Entrepreneur Of The Year award in the Northern California region.  This awards program recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence in areas such as innovation, financial performance and commitment to their businesses and communities. A panel of independent judges selected Shmunis as a finalist from more than 160 nominees. Regional award winners will be announced at a special gala event on Saturday, June 25th at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose.

“I am honored to be nominated as an Ernst & Young award finalist, along with such an influential group of entrepreneurs,” said Shmunis. “I launched RingCentral to provide an easier way for businesses to communicate, and with our great team, have grown the company into a successful and thriving business.”

Since founding RingCentral, Shmunis has stayed focused on delivering phone systems that connect employees in multiple locations, improve customer communication and boost productivity. RingCentral is now launching partnerships with AT&T and Rogers, who will soon begin offering its cloud phone system.

The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Program is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and recognizes business leaders in more than 140 cities and over 50 countries worldwide. Award winners in several national categories and the Entrepreneur Of The Year will be announced at an awards gala in Palm Springs, California in November.