Tell me a little bit about your background. Were you always focused on finance as a career?
Initially, I intended to join my family in the rank of accountants, but, after taking managerial accounting classes, I knew it wasn’t in my DNA. I have always enjoyed working with numbers, but was drawn more toward the story and creativity with the numbers. After my first class in finance, I was sold and found my first job out of college at a valuation and financial advisory firm.
How did you get interested in restructuring?
What drew me into the restructuring world is the myriad of problems that need solving. My career has always been geared towards the distressed industry and, at Carl Marks, we can be a part of the bigger story of how companies weather storms and not only survive but thrive.
There’s been substantial economic upheaval over the past several years. How has that impacted the work that you do with companies?
Interestingly, in the past, different companies often faced very different types of challenges, whether internal or external. With the current economic environment, we find our clients facing hazards that are very much alike, despite their differences across products and markets. We are solving for similar external shocks at these very different companies, highlighting how complex each situation can be, no matter how repetitious it may seem.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working in restructuring?
While working on a deal, it is hard to see how you’re making a difference day-to-day. Finishing an engagement and looking back at how companies and clients are in a better position as a direct result of your work is a rewarding experience that keeps me coming back.
Additionally, at a smaller middle-market restructuring firm, our work involves different types of engagements in various industries. I’m grateful for the opportunity to challenge myself and continue to learn and grow. The more I learn about the restructuring world, the better I will be able to serve our clients in the future.
What is your favorite country to travel to and why?
Italy! It’s all about the food, pasta and wine, in no specific order!
