Q: Over your career you have done some very interesting things – could you walk us through your career to date?
I have spent the last 15 years in the private equity, operational management,business development and corporate finance world after starting my career as an intern at the FifthThird Bank at fourteen. After college, I helped build an emerging markets investment firm, and then went to business school at Columbia. Post-graduate school, I was fortunate enough to join JPMorgan’s investment banking group. This was an amazing experience in terms of exposure, training and career validation. After being promoted to Vice President, I left JPMorgan to become the COO of a client’s private equity firm in Washington, DC. And, in 2006, founded my own investment firm to continue my focus on medium-sized companies. Through my firm, I have been fortunate to have helped build two publicly-traded companies in the technology sector.
Q: Of all the stops along the way for you so far – which one/ones were the most gratifying?.
One of the most gratifying moments in my career was the 2008 initial public offering of Mood Media (TSX: “MM”), formerly Fluid Music, Inc. an internet-based music services company. I invested in the company and worked with the company’s founder from concept to the public offering. To participate in the evolution of a company from birth was an amazing experience.
Q: Who was a key mentor to you in your career and how did that relationship help you along the way?
I have been fortunate to have several mentors throughout my career. One in particular was the late Mr. Clement Buenger, former Chairman of Fifth ThirdBank. Mr. Buenger played an integral role in early career development as an intern at the Bank and ultimately my hiring at JPMorgan. The most important lesson I learned from him was that, “you are too young to make a mistake.” Specifically, don’t be afraid to test yourself, to try new things, or to pursue your dreams. In addition, he constantly reminded me of my personal obligation to always assist others in need, especially as it related to advancement of education and the arts.
Q: Along the way you have personally done great things breaking through diversity barriers – what advice would you have today for any minorities aspiring to a business career in sports?
Pursuing any career path has its challenges. But the most important thing to remember is that you should never let anyone take away or diminish how hard you have worked to get to where you are. Also, be inquisitive. Try to meet those who are where you would like to go with your career and get their insight. You will be surprised at how much people are willing to share their experiences with you – especially in the sports business industry. This knowledge will assist you in plotting a career course for yourself.
Q: You have some interesting ties to Professional Baseball – could you tell us about those?
I have been very fortunate to have met and known two owners of MLB teams for several years. Through these relationships, I have gained a lot of insight into the business side of major league baseball and other franchises.
Q: Over your career you have worked in both the Corporate and Entrepreneurial Sectors -which have you enjoyed more?
I have most enjoyed entrepreneurial sectors and experiences. I have always considered myself a builder or one who likes to assist others in building platforms. This is no different than building a home, you have the ability to step back and say, “I have created something.”
Q: What are a couple of your favorite sports moment as a fan?
In many ways, the sport heroes of childhood represented tenacity, dedication and all the other positive values of great athletes. As a result, my most memorable sports moments include:
1) Hank Aaron hitting his career home run number 715 on April 8, 1974, breaking Babe Ruth’s record. I am actually named after Hank Aaron.
2) The Big Red Machine dominating the National League from 1972 – 1976. As a young child, Cincinnati Reds games were always playing in the background on the radio or the television.
Q: What are your favorite activities outside of work?
Fishing by far. My father first took me fishing when I was a young boy, and I have loved it ever since. If I’m not around, I’m probably fishing somewhere away from it all.