Over the course of my 30-year career, I have embraced various roles, encompassing consulting, investment banking, business leadership, and fractional CFO positions. My areas of specialization include value creation, exit planning, and digital transformation, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies within the business realm.

During my tenure as the President of ATA Capital and the National Advisory Practice Leader at ATA, I have successfully led initiatives in investment banking, restructuring, and value creation. Earlier experiences at BDO, were marked by national leadership roles in manufacturing and digital transformation. Besides becoming digital thought leaders, my team and I were charged with providing a suite of digital services for middle market businesses to embrace the promises of the fourth industrial revolution.

My achievements include being named as “Top 20 Most Dynamic Business Leader of 2023” and authoring the book “BUSINESS GROWTH: Top 50 Proven Ways to Grow Your Small or Midsize Business.” Additionally, I’ve contributed articles on digital transformation and value creation in high-profile publications and have been featured as a speaker at various industry events and conferences.

With over 30 years of experience, how have you seen the industry evolve, and what immediate changes do you anticipate?

In my 30 years of experience in consulting, advisory, investment banking, public accounting, and fractional CFO roles, I have witnessed the industry evolve significantly. The industry has seen a shift from traditional methods to more digital and data-driven approaches. The use of technology has become more prevalent in the industry, with companies adopting new software and tools to streamline their processes and improve efficiency. The industry has also become more global, with companies expanding their operations to new markets and regions.

In the near future, we can expect to further more advancements in technology, such as the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning, to help companies make better decisions and improve their operations. We can also expect to see an increased focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, with companies taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt more eco-friendly practices. Additionally, we can expect to see more emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, with companies working to create more inclusive workplaces and promote diversity at all levels. Overall, the industry has come a long way in the past 30 years, and it will continue to evolve and adapt to new challenges and opportunities. As a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience, we are well-positioned to navigate these changes and help our clients succeed in the years to come.

Can you take us through your journey with ATA?

Over the past 3 years, I’ve held dual roles as National Advisory Practice Leader at ATA and President of ATA Capital, the firm’s investment banking arm. My focus has centered on refining strategy, enhancing service offerings, and nurturing team growth. A key emphasis has been placed on driving digital transformation initiatives, particularly in collaborating with ATA Digital, our creative and next-gen technology group, to optimize go-to-market strategies.

What is the secret mantra that keeps you energetic and focused in running your business?

The secret mantra that sustains my energy and focus in business revolves around a threefold approach: Purpose, Adaptability, and Continuous Learning.

Firstly, having a clear sense of purpose drives my motivation. Knowing why I do what I do, the impact I aim to make, and the values guiding my decisions fuels my energy and determination, even during challenging times.

Secondly, adaptability is crucial. Embracing change, being agile in response to market shifts, and staying open to innovative ideas and technologies allow me to navigate evolving landscapes and identify new opportunities.

Lastly, the commitment to continuous learning keeps me engaged and focused. Drawing from my 30 years of experience, I prioritize staying updated on industry trends, honing new skills, and seeking insights from diverse perspectives, which ultimately enriches my decisionmaking and fuels my passion for business leadership.

As a successful leader, what advice would you offer to the new generation of entrepreneurs?

As a successful leader with three decades of experience, here’s my advice for the new generation of entrepreneurs:

• Embrace Resilience: Expect setbacks, but view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Resilience in the face of adversity is key to long-term success.
• Foster Relationships: Build a strong network of mentors, peers, and advisors. Cultivating relationships can offer guidance, support, and invaluable insights.
• Prioritize Learning: Never stop learning. Stay curious, seek knowledge, and adapt to evolving trends and technologies within your industry.
• Focus on Value: Always aim to create value for your customers. Understand their needs deeply and strive to exceed their expectations.
• Agility and Adaptability: Be ready to pivot when necessary. The ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances is a vital skill in today’s dynamic business landscape.
• Balance Innovation with Execution: Innovative ideas are essential, but execution is what brings them to life. Balance creativity with a focus on implementation.
• Embrace Failure: See failure as a stepping stone to success. Learn from mistakes, iterate, and keep moving forward.
• Lead with Integrity: Build your business on a foundation of trust, ethics, and transparency. Your integrity will be a cornerstone of your success.
• Take Calculated Risks: Entrepreneurship involves risks, but informed and calculated risks often lead to significant rewards. Be bold in your decisions.
• Remember Your ‘Why’: Always stay connected to your purpose. Knowing why you started will guide you through challenges and keep you motivated.

By embracing these principles, new entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of the business world and pave their way toward sustainable success.

“Commitment to continuous learning keeps me engaged and focused.”

“Purpose, Adaptability, and Continuous Learning.”

“We can expect to further more advancements in technology, such as the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning.”